Easy Crockpot Orange Pork Chops for a Tender Weeknight Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add a bit of heat to the dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of chili garlic sauce to the glaze mixture before cooking. This provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the orange marmalade.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the pork chops once cooked and whisk a small amount of cornstarch slurry into the liquid in the slow cooker, then set it to high for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Serving these pork chops with a neutral base, such as steamed white rice, mashed potatoes, or even quinoa, helps to soak up the delicious citrus-soy glaze. You can also garnish the finished dish with thinly sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds for an added layer of texture and freshness.

These simple additions can transform the meal, making it feel more complete and visually appealing when presenting it to guests or serving it as a family dinner.

Variations

• Spicy Orange Pork: Add one tablespoon of chili garlic sauce or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the glaze before cooking. This creates a balanced heat that cuts through the sweetness of the marmalade.
• Ginger Orange Pork: Incorporate one tablespoon of freshly grated ginger into the sauce mixture. The ginger adds a bright, zesty note that pairs perfectly with the citrus and soy flavors.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has become too thick.

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the pork chops with a generous amount of the glaze to keep the meat moist while in the refrigerator.

Proper storage in an airtight container will help maintain the quality of the pork for up to three days. Always ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent the meat from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

This dish is excellent for making ahead of time as the flavors continue to meld in the refrigerator. You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before and keep it in the fridge, then simply place it into the base and turn it on in the morning.

Note that if the insert is cold from the fridge, you may need to add 30 to 60 minutes to the total cooking time to account for the initial temperature difference.

Serving ideas

Serve the pork chops warm, spooning extra glaze from the bottom of the slow cooker over each portion. The glaze is flavorful and pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, which provide a nice crunch to contrast with the tender pork. Ensure each serving includes a portion of the sticky sauce, as it is the highlight of the dish.

If serving for a larger group, you can double the recipe provided the slow cooker has enough capacity to hold the chops in a single layer. Arrange the chops on a large platter and drizzle the remaining glaze over the top for an impressive presentation. Offering a side of fresh herbs or a simple crisp salad can brighten the plate and provide a refreshing balance to the rich, sweet, and savory profile of the orange-glazed pork.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Crockpot Orange Pork Chops for a Tender Weeknight Dinner

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 10 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces thick-cut pork chops
• 1/2 cup orange marmalade
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup soy sauce

Instructions

1. Place the raw thick-cut pork chops into the bottom of the slow cooker insert. Ensure they are arranged in a single layer if possible to promote even cooking throughout the process.
2. Spoon the orange marmalade over the pork chops. Sprinkle the garlic powder evenly over the meat, then pour the soy sauce over everything to create the base of the cooking liquid.
3. Cover the slow cooker and set to low for 4 to 6 hours. Once the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), remove the chops and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Contains: gluten, soy

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

22 g

Fat

12 g

Fiber

0.5 g

Sugar

18 g

Sodium

750 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.