How do I know when the pork chops are cooked through?
Grill until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer. The chops should have golden grill marks and the glaze should caramelize slightly.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, combine the orange marmalade, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and orange juice/zest up to 2 days ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and brush on chops just before grilling.
What type of pork chops work best?
Bone-in chops 1–1.5 inches thick are ideal—they stay juicy and develop better grill marks. Boneless chops will cook faster, so monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of marmalade?
You can, but you'll lose the glaze's body and sticky texture. Reduce 1 cup fresh orange juice with sugar and cornstarch to create a glaze, or mix fresh juice with a small amount of marmalade.
How far ahead can I prep the mandarin slaw?
Prepare slaw components (shredded cabbage, mandarin segments) up to 4 hours ahead in separate containers. Dress with lime juice, soy sauce, and ginger just before serving to keep it crisp.