BJ’s Pork Chops Recipe

If you’ve ever had BJ’s pork chops, you know they’re cooked just right—seared outside, tender, juicy inside, and full of rich seasoning.

It all starts before the chops even hit the pan!

I soak them in a quick brine for an hour, which keeps them from drying out while they cook.

Drying them well after brining helps the seasoning stick, and a mix of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and just a pinch of cayenne gives them a deep, savory taste.

A cast-iron pan over medium-high heat gives the best sear without scorching the outside.

I finish them in a low oven to cook through evenly, then rest them for five minutes so they stay tender.

A quick pan sauce made from the drippings and a splash of broth is the icing on the…pork chop!

How to Make BJ’s Pork Chops

Ingredients

• 4 Pork Chops
• 1 can Mandarin Oranges (15 oz.)
• 1 cup Orange Juice
• 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
• 2 tbsp White Vinegar
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel.

Season them using salt and black pepper on both sides.

Step 2:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the pork chops once the oil is hot.

Brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Step 3:

Remove the pork chops and set them aside on a plate.

In the skillet, combine mandarin oranges, orange juice, brown sugar, and vinegar.

Simmer the mixture for around 5 minutes until it slightly thickens.

Step 4:

Return the pork chops to the skillet.

Spoon the orange glaze over each pork chop to thoroughly coat them.

Step 5:

Let the chops simmer in the glaze for another 10 minutes.

Ensure they are cooked through and tender.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Pork Chops

Choose thicker pork chops over thinner ones.

Thicker chops remain juicier and are less likely to dry out during cooking.

Balancing the Sweetness

You can adjust the sweetness by altering the amount of brown sugar.

If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or two.

Enhancing the Flavor

For an added dimension of flavor, try incorporating a teaspoon of Dijon mustard.

This will give the glaze a subtle tang.

Glaze Consistency

If the glaze isn’t thickening as desired, increase the heat slightly.

Stir the glaze more frequently to reduce it.

Reheating Leftovers

For leftovers, reheat them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of orange juice.

This helps to retain the moisture.

Feel free to share any variations you come up with!

What to Serve with BJ’s Pork Chops Recipe

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side that brings a comforting balance to BJ’s pork chops.

The creamy texture works like a charm, especially when mixed with a hint of garlic or sour cream.

Don’t be afraid to add a dash of chives for a little extra flavor!

Lemon Roasted Asparagus

If you’re looking for something bright, lemon roasted asparagus is a fantastic choice.

The zesty lemon pairs wonderfully with the rich pork chops, creating a refreshing contrast.

Plus, asparagus is quick to prepare, making it a go-to side!

Peach Cobbler

For a little sweetness, peach cobbler hits the spot!

This Southern treat complements the savory flavor of the pork with its juicy, sweet goodness.

You can serve it warm, and maybe add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Grilled Pineapple Salsa

I just looove grilled pineapple salsa with pork chops!

The sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple mixed with spicy jalapeños and fresh cilantro are a taste sensation.

This salsa can also add a colorful touch to your plate!

Creamed Corn

Creamed corn offers a sweet creaminess that works so well with pork chops.

Its comfort-food appeal is both easy to make and loved by many.

Pair it with pork chops drizzled in apple cider sauce for a truly memorable meal.

Cilantro-Lime Rice

Cilantro-lime rice gives your meal a fresh and zesty twist.

The citrusy notes are a wonderful way to accent the pork chops, adding a burst of flavor.

Make sure to fluff the rice well and serve it while it’s still warm!

Variations and Substitutions

Spice it Up

You can play around with different spices to suit your taste for BJ’s pork chops recipe.

Try adding paprika or cayenne pepper if you want a bit of heat!

You might just find a new favorite combination.

Swap the Citrus

If you don’t have mandarin oranges, you can substitute with canned pineapple.

The sweetness mixes well, and you will still get a great fruit flavor with the pork.

Plus, it’s always great to use what’s already in your pantry.

Alternative Proteins

For a different protein option, chicken breasts or thighs work wonders.

They cook faster than pork, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Vegetables and Sides

Roasted vegetables are a great accompaniment to the dish!

Consider green beans or asparagus for a pop of color and flavor.

Both options balance the sweetness of the glaze beautifully.

How to Store Leftover Pork Chops

Refrigeration

Once your pork chops have cooled to room temperature, store them in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in aluminum foil.

This helps maintain their moisture and prevents them from drying out.

Always get the leftovers into the fridge within two hours to keep them fresh and safe.

Freezing

If you want to keep them for more than a few days, freezing is a great option.

Wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Place wrapped chops into a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and store for up to three months.

Label and Date

It might be hard to remember when you put those pork chops in the fridge or freezer.

Take a moment to label containers or freezer bags with the date and contents.

This way, you can easily keep track of how long they’ve been stored.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Letting the Pork Chops Reach Room Temperature

You may be eager to get cooking, but avoid skipping the step of allowing pork chops to reach room temperature.

Cold pork chops can result in uneven cooking, causing the outside to overcook while the inside remains underdone.

Letting the meat sit on the counter for about 30 minutes can make a big difference.

Overcooking the Pork Chops

Overcooking can strip your pork chops of moisture, leaving them dry and tough.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chops reach just the right temperature of 145°F, allowing them to retain their juiciness.

Taking them off the heat a few degrees early and letting them rest will help achieve perfection!

Forgetting to Season Properly

Seasoning is key to unlocking that amazing flavor in your pork chops.

A quick 30-minute dry brine enhances taste and helps create a nice crust.

Even a mix of simple salt and pepper goes a long way to enhance your dish.