Description
Savory “Baked Pork Chops & Rice” combines hearty comfort with simple elegance, delivering a classic one-pan meal that promises rich flavors and tender meat. Home cooks can enjoy this satisfying dish that brings warmth and deliciousness to the dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Base and Liquid Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces / 300 grams) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 ¾ cups (420 milliliters) chicken broth (or water)
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Craft a zesty seasoning blend by combining garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a small mixing bowl. Thoroughly massage this aromatic mixture onto both surfaces of the pork chops, ensuring complete coverage.
- Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned pork chops for approximately 2-3 minutes per side until a rich golden-brown crust develops. Transfer the chops to a temporary plate.
- Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). In a spacious baking dish, blend uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, diced onions, bell peppers, and remaining spices. Whisk the ingredients until thoroughly incorporated.
- Strategically place small butter fragments across the rice mixture to enhance richness and depth of flavor.
- Nestle the seared pork chops atop the rice mixture, creating an even layer. Securely wrap the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and promote even cooking.
- Slide the covered dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Verify doneness by ensuring rice reaches tender consistency and pork chops register an internal temperature of 145F (63C).
- For a visually appealing finish, remove the foil and broil briefly, watching carefully to prevent burning. The surface should develop a tempting golden-brown hue.
- Gently fluff the rice with a fork, allowing the savory pork juices to intermingle with the grains.
- Elevate the presentation by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or a bright squeeze of lemon juice. Serve alongside steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Enhance flavor by marinating pork chops in buttermilk or brine for 1-2 hours before seasoning to ensure maximum tenderness and juiciness.
- Customize spice blend by experimenting with different herb combinations like thyme, rosemary, or herb de Provence for unique taste profiles.
- Create gluten-free version by substituting cream of mushroom soup with homemade cashew cream or gluten-free cream soup alternative.
- Reduce cooking time for thinner pork chops by checking internal temperature earlier and adjusting baking duration to prevent overcooking and maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg