DINNER

Orange Glazed Pork Chops: 4 Juicy Secrets

by Fatima Garcia

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22 de January de 2026

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Orange Glazed Pork Chops have become my go-to for a weeknight meal that feels special, and I know you’ll find them just as delightful. There’s something magical about the way the sweet, tangy citrus glaze caramelizes on the tender pork, creating a symphony of flavors that fills the kitchen with an incredible aroma. I remember the first time I made these easy orange glazed pork chops; the vibrant orange scent alone had my family asking what was for dinner before I even finished cooking! It’s a comforting, yet sophisticated dish that’s surprisingly simple to whip up. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Orange Glazed Pork Chops Recipe

You’re going to adore making these Orange Glazed Pork Chops for so many reasons! They’re a fantastic option for busy evenings:

The taste is simply divine – a perfect balance of sweet and savory orange pork chops that will have everyone asking for seconds.
You get wonderfully juicy orange glazed pork chops thanks to a simple brining process.
Prep time is minimal, making them an incredibly easy orange glazed pork chops option for any night of the week.
The bright citrus notes are refreshing and satisfying.
They’re surprisingly budget-friendly, especially when you buy pork chops in bulk.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
The accompanying garlic-sage pan sauce adds a gourmet touch without much extra effort.
They’re versatile, pairing well with a variety of side dishes.

Ingredients for the Best Orange Glazed Pork Chops

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these amazing orange glazed pork chops. The brine is key to that tender, juicy texture, and it’s surprisingly simple. You’ll need some basic pantry staples along with fresh ingredients for that bright citrus punch. For the brine, we’ll use 2 cups Florida Oranges fresh-squeezed juice, along with 0.5 cup Kosher Salt, 0.5 cup Brown Sugar, 1 tablespoon Mixed Peppercorns, 2 whole Star Anise, 2 inches Fresh Ginger Root, and 4 cups Water. Don’t forget 2 cups Ice to quickly chill the brine. For the chops themselves, you’ll want 4 pieces Thick Cut, Bone-In Pork Chops. The sauce is where the magic really happens, featuring 4 tablespoons Salted Butter, 1 tablespoon Cornstarch, 1 cup Low Sodium Chicken Broth, and another 0.5 cup Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice. We’ll also add 2 tablespoons Hoisin Sauce for a touch of sweetness, 2 tablespoons Fresh Sage, Chopped, 2 cloves Garlic, Minced, and 1 tablespoon Orange Zest. Think of the hoisin and orange juice as creating a glaze similar to what you’d find on delicious orange marmalade pork chops.

How to Make Orange Glazed Pork Chops

Making these delicious orange glazed pork chops is a straightforward process that guarantees a tender and flavorful meal. My favorite part is the aroma that fills the kitchen as the pork sears and the glaze simmers!

Step 1: Start by preparing the brine. In a saucepan, combine 0.5 cup Kosher Salt, 0.5 cup Brown Sugar, 1 tablespoon Mixed Peppercorns, 2 whole Star Anise, 2 inches Fresh Ginger Root, and 4 cups Water. Bring this mixture to a boil, then let it steep for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors. Allow it to cool slightly before proceeding.
Step 2: To properly cool the brine, fill a large bowl with 2 cups Ice. Carefully pour the warm brine over the ice. Squeeze in the 2 cups Florida Oranges fresh-squeezed juice. Once the brine is thoroughly chilled, submerge your 4 pieces Thick Cut, Bone-In Pork Chops in the liquid, ensuring they are fully covered.
Step 3: For the best results, refrigerate the pork chops in the brine for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This brining process is what makes these juicy orange glazed pork chops so incredibly tender and flavorful.
Step 4: When you’re ready to cook, remove the chops from the brine and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Melt 4 tablespoons Salted Butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is shimmering, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 5-6 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. These are your pan-seared orange glazed pork chops.
Step 5: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. You’re aiming for 145°F (63°C). Once they reach the correct temperature, tent the chops loosely with foil and let them rest for about 10 minutes.
Step 6: While the pork is resting, prepare the sauce. In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out!), mix 1 tablespoon Cornstarch with 1 cup Low Sodium Chicken Broth to create a smooth slurry. Add the remaining sauce ingredients: 0.5 cup Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice, 2 tablespoons Hoisin Sauce, 2 tablespoons Fresh Sage, Chopped, 2 cloves Garlic, Minced, and 1 tablespoon Orange Zest. Heat this mixture over medium heat, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. These are the essential pork chops orange glaze instructions for achieving that perfect finish.
Step 7: Serve the pork chops immediately, spooning the luscious orange glaze over the top. Garnish with extra fresh sage and a few orange slices for a beautiful presentation.

Pro Tips for Tender Orange Glazed Pork Chops

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that guarantee these orange glazed pork chops turn out perfectly tender and full of flavor every single time. Following these simple tips will elevate your cooking!

Always use thick-cut, bone-in pork chops. The bone adds flavor and helps the meat cook more evenly, preventing it from drying out.
Don’t skip the brining step! It’s the secret to incredibly moist and tender pork, even if you accidentally overcook them slightly.
Pat the pork chops completely dry after brining. This is essential for achieving a beautiful, golden-brown sear on the outside.
Resist the urge to overcook. Use a meat thermometer and pull the chops off the heat once they reach 145°F (63°C) for the best texture.
Let the pork chops rest for at least 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness.

What’s the secret to perfect Orange Glazed Pork Chops?

The real secret to perfect Orange Glazed Pork Chops lies in a two-step process: brining the pork for moisture and then creating a simple yet flavorful orange glaze. The brine ensures tenderness, while a well-balanced glaze provides that irresistible sweet and savory kick.

Can I make Orange Glazed Pork Chops ahead of time?

You can absolutely prepare components ahead of time! You can make the brine and marinate the pork chops overnight. However, it’s best to sear and glaze the pork chops just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Glazed pork chops with orange?

The most common mistake is overcooking, which leads to dry pork. Always use a meat thermometer and aim for 145°F (63°C). Another pitfall is not patting the chops dry before searing, which prevents a good crust. Lastly, don’t skip the resting period after cooking!

What to Serve with Orange Glazed Pork Chops

These vibrant Orange Glazed Pork Chops are wonderfully versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a complete and satisfying meal, I love serving them alongside fluffy mashed potatoes or a creamy polenta to soak up that delicious glaze. Another fantastic option is roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus, which offer a nice crisp texture and a slightly bitter contrast to the sweet and savory pork. If you’re looking for more ideas for your next citrus glazed pork chops recipe, consider a simple quinoa salad or a light, fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to complement the flavors.

Orange Glazed Pork Chops: 4 Juicy Secrets - Orange Glazed Pork Chops - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Orange Glazed Pork Chops

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of these delicious Orange Glazed Pork Chops. These figures give you a good idea of what you’re consuming with this flavorful meal.

Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 600 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Orange Glazed Pork Chops

Properly storing and reheating your Orange Glazed Pork Chops ensures you can enjoy every last bite, even days later. Once the pork chops have cooled completely, I like to store them in an airtight container. For the refrigerator, they’ll keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them even longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they can be frozen for up to 3 months. These make for really quick orange glazed pork chops to grab for a meal on a busy day!

When it’s time to reheat, I usually opt for the stovetop. Gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat, perhaps with a splash of extra orange juice or chicken broth to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at around 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. Just be careful not to overheat them, as that can make them tough.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Glazed Pork Chops

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use boneless pork chops! The cooking time might be slightly shorter, so keep a close eye on the internal temperature. When figuring out how to make orange glazed pork chops with boneless cuts, aim for that 145°F (63°C) internal temperature and adjust the searing time accordingly.

What if I don’t have fresh oranges?

If fresh oranges aren’t available, you can substitute with good quality bottled orange juice. While fresh offers the best flavor, a good 100% pure orange juice will still work well for the glaze and brine. Just be mindful that bottled juices might have added sugars or less intense flavor.

How do I get a good sear on my pork chops?

The key to a great sear on your Orange Glazed Pork Chops is a scorching hot pan and dry pork chops. Make sure your skillet is properly heated before adding the chops, and pat them very dry with paper towels after brining. This removes any surface moisture that would steam the meat instead of searing it.

Can I make the orange glaze ahead of time?

You can prepare the orange glaze mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to reheat and simmer it just before you’re ready to serve to ensure the best consistency and flavor for your glazed pork chops with orange.

Variations of Orange Glazed Pork Chops You Can Try

While this Orange Glazed Pork Chops recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different flavors and methods! Here are a few ideas to switch things up and explore new delicious possibilities.

Orange Honey Glazed Pork Chops: For an extra layer of sweetness and a slightly different caramelization, swap out the hoisin sauce for honey. You can also add a tablespoon of honey to the orange juice in the glaze. This creates a wonderfully sticky, sweet glaze that’s absolutely irresistible.
Spicy Orange Glazed Pork Chops: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely minced jalapeño to the sauce as it simmers. This adds a subtle warmth that complements the sweet citrus beautifully.
Baked Orange Glazed Pork Chops: Instead of pan-searing, you can bake these chops. After brining and patting them dry, place them in a baking dish and pour the prepared glaze over them. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and the glaze is bubbly.
Citrus Glazed Pork Loin Chops: Feel free to substitute pork loin chops for the thicker cuts if that’s what you have on hand. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as loin chops tend to cook a bit faster. The citrus glaze works wonderfully with this cut as well.

About the Author

Fatima Garcia