Pork Chops L'Orange
Tender pork chops baked with orange juice and rice create a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for family dinners and entertaining guests alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season and brown the pork chops on the top of the stove.
- Spray a 9 x 13-inch pan with cooking spray.
- Sprinkle rice evenly in the prepared pan.
- Pour orange juice over the rice.
- Place the browned pork chops on top of the rice and orange juice.
- Pour well-salted chicken stock over the pork chops.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, try marinating the pork chops in orange juice and spices for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have chicken stock, vegetable stock can be a great substitute. You can also add some herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the taste. If you prefer a crispy top, uncover the dish for the last 15 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pork Chops L'Orange with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes for a comforting dish. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside a simple fruit salad or a light dessert to cleanse the palate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops and rice in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops L'Orange contains roughly 552 calories, with 27g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1139mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Boneless chops can be just as flavorful and tender when cooked properly.
What kind of rice is best for this dish?
Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, works well because it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the orange juice and chicken stock. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition. Place them in the pan with the rice before adding the orange juice and pork chops for a delicious one-pan meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).