Slow Cooker Orange Herb Pork Chops for a Tender Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add a slight kick to the dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze before pouring it over the pork. This will introduce a gentle heat that complements the bright citrus notes of the orange zest perfectly.

If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can remove the pork chops once cooked and whisk a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water into the liquid left in the slow cooker.

Turn the slow cooker to high for 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken before serving.

Variations

• Lemon Herb Pork Chops: Substitute the orange zest with fresh lemon zest for a brighter, more acidic profile. The lemon pairs beautifully with the thyme and creates a cleaner, zestier glaze that is perfect for warmer weather dinners.
• Garlic Infused Pork Chops: Add two cloves of minced garlic to the glaze mixture before pouring it over the pork. The garlic adds a savory depth that complements the earthiness of the thyme, creating a heartier flavor.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag or container; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water or in the microwave until warmed through.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the pork is cooled to room temperature within 2 hours before placing it into the fridge.

Keeping the meat in some of the leftover glaze will help it retain moisture during storage and subsequent reheating.

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the aromatics and have the pork ready in the slow cooker bowl covered in the fridge for up to 2 hours before turning it on. When ready to cook, simply proceed with the cooking time as directed.

Serving ideas

Serve these pork chops alongside simple sides that can soak up the flavorful orange herb glaze.

Creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp garden salad are excellent choices that balance the savory elements of the dish without overpowering the delicate flavor of the pork.

For a more complete meal, consider serving the pork with a side of fluffy rice or crusty bread to ensure none of the delicious sauce goes to waste.

The bright notes of the orange make it a versatile main course that pairs well with a variety of seasonal vegetables and light, refreshing side dishes.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Orange Herb Pork Chops for a Tender Dinner

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

1. In the slow cooker, combine the orange zest and fresh thyme. These aromatics will infuse the pork as it cooks, creating a rich herb glaze without needing extra liquids.
2. Place the bone-in pork chops into the slow cooker, coating them well with the herb mixture. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours until the pork reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C), then allow the meat to rest for at least 3 minutes.
3. Remove the pork chops from the slow cooker using kitchen tongs and transfer them to a clean serving plate. Let the meat rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to ensure it stays juicy and tender. Spoon any remaining glaze from the slow cooker over the chops before plating.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

280

Protein

32 g

Carbohydrates

2 g

Fat

15 g

Fiber

0.2 g

Sugar

0.5 g

Sodium

120 mg

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