Easy Baked Pork Chops and Rice Recipe
A warm, hearty dish like baked pork chops and rice never fails to bring comfort to the dinner table. This easy recipe combines tender, juicy pork chops with fluffy, flavourful rice all cooked together in one dish for the ultimate family friendly meal. The oven does most of the work, allowing the flavours to blend perfectly while you enjoy a stress free cooking experience. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like home wholesome, satisfying, and deeply comforting.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels special yet easy enough for busy weeknights. The rice absorbs all the rich flavours from the seasoned pork chops, resulting in a deliciously seasoned base that complements the meat perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, this baked pork chops and rice recipe will quickly become one of your go to favorites.
Why You Need This Recipe
You need this recipe because it offers convenience, flavour, and comfort all in one dish. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking for a fuss free meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste. The pork chops stay moist and tender while the rice bakes to perfection, soaking up all the savory juices. This recipe is great for meal prep, requires minimal cleanup, and can easily be customized with your favourite seasonings or vegetables. It’s the perfect way to turn simple ingredients into a delicious, filling dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients
These ingredients come together to create a perfectly seasoned and comforting one pan dinner.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in pork chops | 4 pieces (about 1 lb) | 520 |
| Long grain white rice | 1 cup | 205 |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | 30 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | 200 |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Paprika | ½ tsp | 3 |
| Dried thyme | ½ tsp | 2 |
| Soy sauce (optional) | 1 tbsp | 10 |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) | 1 tbsp | 2 |
Each ingredient plays a key role in building a rich, flavourful, and well balanced dish that tastes homemade and comforting
How to Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly season the pork chops on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sear the pork chops for about 2 minutes per side until lightly golden. This step locks in flavor and keeps the meat juicy during baking. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same pan, add butter and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the uncooked rice, coating it well in the flavorful mixture. Add chicken broth and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Pour the rice mixture into a greased baking dish and place the seared pork chops on top. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the rice is tender and the pork chops are fully cooked. For a slightly crispy finish, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving, then garnish with fresh parsley.
Pro Tips
Searing the pork chops before baking adds depth and flavour, so don’t skip this step. If you prefer brown rice, extend the baking time and add an extra ½ cup of broth. For extra flavour, use chicken broth instead of water and a splash of soy sauce for richness. Avoid overbaking to keep the pork juicy and tender. Adding a handful of vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or carrots can make it a complete one pan meal.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, green beans, or a simple garden salad for a well rounded meal. You can also add a touch of freshness with a side of coleslaw or a cool cucumber salad. For toppings, a drizzle of creamy garlic sauce or a sprinkle of shredded cheese adds extra indulgence. Pair it with a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea to balance the savoury richness of the dish.
Conclusion
This easy baked pork chops and rice recipe is a classic comfort meal that’s simple to prepare yet full of flavor. The tender pork chops, perfectly seasoned rice, and aromatic spices come together to create a wholesome and satisfying dinner for any day of the week. It’s budget friendly, family approved, and ideal for anyone who loves comforting homemade food without spending hours in the kitchen.
