Baked Pork Chops & Rice

Baked Pork Chops & Rice is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender, juicy pork chops baked on a bed of flavorful rice. The rice is infused with savory broth and seasonings, absorbing all the delicious juices from the pork chops as they cook. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a satisfying dinner with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal with easy cleanup
• The rice cooks in flavorful juices, making it extra tasty
• Tender, juicy pork chops every time
• Customizable with your favorite seasonings and vegetables
• Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pork Chops:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced celery (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced carrots (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon butter (cut into small pieces)

Directions

this recipe

Prepare the Pork Chops

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the Pork Chops:
   • Rub the pork chops with olive oil.
   • In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the pork chops.

Prepare the Rice

1. Mix the Rice Ingredients:
   • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, diced onion, celery, carrots, and Italian seasoning.
   • Stir until well combined and spread evenly.
2. Add Butter:
   • Dot the rice mixture with small pieces of butter for added richness.

Assemble and Bake

1. Place Pork Chops on Rice:
   • Arrange the seasoned pork chops on top of the rice mixture.
2. Cover and Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
   • Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Broil for Extra Color (Optional):
   • Broil for 2-3 minutes to brown the pork chops and give a bit of extra color.
4. Serve:
   • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Pork Chops & Rice: Mix 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese into the rice mixture and top the pork chops with extra cheese before baking.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the rice mixture.
• Herbed Pork Chops: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage in the seasoning mix for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate peas, green beans, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Creamy Chicken and Rice: Substitute pork chops with chicken thighs or breasts for a creamy chicken and rice dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you may need to increase the baking time and add extra broth since brown rice takes longer to cook.

2. How do I keep pork chops from drying out?

Bake the dish covered to keep moisture in and avoid overcooking the pork chops.

3. Can I use bone-in pork chops?

Yes, bone-in pork chops work well and tend to stay juicier. Adjust cooking time as needed.

4. Can I use a different soup instead of cream of mushroom?

Yes, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup works as a good substitute.

5. How do I add more flavor to the rice?

Use broth instead of water, add more herbs, or mix in sautéed garlic and onions.

6. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting cold.

7. What sides go well with baked pork chops and rice?

Serve with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

8. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding the rice during the last 2 hours of cooking.

9. Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.

10. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free condensed soup and ensure the broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Baked Pork Chops & Rice is a flavorful and easy one-pan meal that brings comfort and convenience to the dinner table. The tender pork chops and savory rice create a delicious combination that is sure to become a family favorite. With minimal prep and easy customization, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a wholesome and satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. Enjoy this classic dish with your favorite sides and relish the comforting flavors!

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