Honey Orange Glazed Pork Chops are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the bright flavor of orange. This recipe results in tender, juicy pork chops with a sticky, flavorful glaze that is sure to impress your family and friends. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

Ingredients List

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Timing

Preparing the Honey Orange Glazed Pork Chops takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Mix Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the honey, orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Pork Chops

1. Marinate: Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Step 3: Cook the Pork Chops

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Baking Dish: Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. Sear the Chops: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear them in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
4. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Glaze: While the pork chops are baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Brush with Glaze: In the last 2-3 minutes of baking, brush the thickened glaze over the pork chops.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of the Honey Orange Glazed Pork Chops (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	30g
Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	20g

Tips for Customization

• Add Spices: Feel free to add spices like cumin or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Vegetable Side: Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the dish.
• Alternative Cuts: This glaze works well with chicken thighs or turkey chops as well.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Conclusion

Honey Orange Glazed Pork Chops are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them a fantastic choice for any meal. With their easy preparation and mouthwatering glaze, these pork chops are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite sides!

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can use chicken or turkey instead of pork chops; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I grill the pork chops instead of baking them?

Yes, you can grill the marinated pork chops over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, brushing with the glaze during the last few minutes.