pork chops with orange soy sauce

This Pork Chops with Orange-Soy Sauce recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory and citrusy flavors. A rich, tangy sauce made from fresh orange juice and soy sauce adds depth and brightness to perfectly seared pork chops.

With just a handful of ingredients, including garlic and thyme, this dish transforms simple pork chops into a delicious, flavorful meal. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests.

The combination of the orange and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the pork without overpowering it. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy pork chops with a twist.

Pork Chops with Orange-Soy Sauce Ingredients

The natural sweetness of fresh orange juice creates a zesty and vibrant sauce that beautifully complements the savory pork. Soy sauce deepens the flavor, providing a rich, umami contrast to the citrusy brightness.

Garlic brings a warm, aromatic depth to the dish, while thyme adds an earthy, herby note that enhances the overall flavor profile. The pork chops serve as a tender, juicy base, absorbing the delicious pan sauce for a perfectly balanced meal.

Pork Chops with Orange-Soy Sauce

Recipe Tips

1. Searing Pork Chops Properly
   To achieve a perfect sear, ensure that the skillet is hot before adding the pork chops. The oil should shimmer, but not smoke. This helps develop a golden, crispy crust on the pork, locking in the juices for a tender result.
2. Fresh Orange Juice Matters
   For the best flavor, freshly squeezed orange juice is crucial. Store-bought juice often contains preservatives that can dull the flavor of the sauce. Squeeze the juice from ripe oranges for a fresh, vibrant sweetness that balances the savory soy sauce.
3. Control the Heat for Sauce Reduction
   When reducing the orange-soy sauce, adjust the heat to medium-high and keep a close eye on it. If the sauce reduces too quickly, it could burn or become overly concentrated. Stir occasionally to ensure even reduction and prevent sticking.

What to Serve with Pork Chops with Orange-Soy Sauce

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   A creamy and buttery mashed potato dish is the perfect counterpart to the tangy, savory pork chops. The richness of the potatoes complements the citrusy sauce, making each bite a balanced, comforting experience.
2. Steamed Green Beans
   Lightly steamed green beans provide a crisp, fresh contrast to the hearty pork chops. Their mild flavor and crunchy texture bring a refreshing note that pairs beautifully with the robust orange-soy sauce.
3. Rice Pilaf
   A flavorful rice pilaf with toasted almonds and herbs makes a great side for soaking up the delicious sauce. The nuttiness of the rice adds depth and texture, balancing out the pork’s richness without overwhelming the dish.

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FAQ

1. Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
   Yes, bone-in pork chops will work perfectly. Just ensure they cook through, and you may need to extend the searing and cooking time by a few minutes to ensure they’re fully done.
2. Can I substitute orange juice with another citrus juice?
   Absolutely! You can substitute orange juice with grapefruit or lemon juice for a different twist. Keep in mind that other citrus fruits may introduce more acidity, so adjust the sweetness of the sauce accordingly.
3. How can I make the sauce spicier?
   If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, balancing the heat with the citrus sweetness.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   While the pork is best when fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce gently and cook the pork fresh when ready to serve.

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Pork Chops with Orange-Soy Sauce

This Pork Chops with Orange-Soy Sauce recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory and citrusy flavors. A rich, tangy sauce made from fresh orange juice and soy sauce adds depth and brightness to perfectly seared pork chops.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 2 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 People

Ingredients

  

• 4 pork chops
• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice approximately 6 medium oranges
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic finely minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried or fresh thyme
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Begin by heating the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. In a separate small bowl, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, soy sauce, garlic, and thyme. Set the mixture aside for later use.
• Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the hot skillet, searing them for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once seared, reduce the heat and continue cooking the pork chops for an additional 5 minutes, turning them occasionally to prevent burning. Transfer the chops to a plate and cover them loosely with aluminum foil.
• Using the same skillet, pour the prepared orange juice mixture into the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook the sauce over medium-high heat for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce by half. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, return the pork chops to the skillet, turning them to coat evenly in the sauce. Continue to heat the pork chops through before serving with the pan sauce.

Keyword Pork Chops with Orange-Soy Sauce