Succulent and tender pork chops meet the vibrant tang of orange in this delightful dish. The combination of savory and citrus creates a beautifully balanced flavor profile that’s both refreshing and comforting. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special gathering, this recipe comes together quickly and uses simple ingredients to create a sophisticated meal. Serve it with fluffy rice or roasted vegetables to soak up the delicious sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Season and Sear the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Combine the Sauce Ingredients: Add the orange juice, orange zest, chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, and ground ginger to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the Pork Chops: Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and cook over low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the pork chops from the skillet and stir the cornstarch slurry into the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened, then return the pork chops to the skillet.
- Serve: Garnish the pork chops with fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides.
Enjoy the bright, savory flavors of these pork chops in orange sauce—a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!
