Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Pork Chops & Rice is a hearty, one-pan meal that’s full of comforting flavor and easy preparation. Juicy pork chops are baked over seasoned rice that absorbs all the savory juices during cooking, creating a tender, flavorful dish with minimal cleanup. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a family-style Sunday meal, this dish is simple, satisfying, and filling.

ingredients

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

bone-in or boneless pork chopslong grain white ricelow-sodium chicken brothonion (chopped)garlic (minced)butterolive oilsaltpepperpaprikagarlic powderonion powderItalian seasoningparsley (for garnish, optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Set aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine uncooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and a tablespoon of melted butter. Stir well.

Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Place the seared pork chops on top of the rice. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the pork chops are cooked through (internal temp of 145°F).

Remove foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes to lightly brown the top.

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 55-70 minutesTotal time: 70-85 minutes

Variations

Use bone-in chops for extra flavor or boneless for easier serving.

Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the rice for added vegetables.

Replace chicken broth with cream of mushroom soup for a creamier texture.

Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before the final bake.

Use wild rice or brown rice, adjusting liquid and cook time accordingly.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.For oven reheating, cover with foil and warm at 325°F for about 20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use instant rice?

No, instant rice will overcook—use long grain white rice for best results.

Do I have to sear the pork chops first?

Searing adds flavor and helps lock in juices, but you can skip it if in a rush.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temp before baking.

Can I freeze this dish?

It freezes well. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

What kind of pork chops work best?

Thick-cut, bone-in chops hold up well to baking. Thin chops may dry out.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add chili flakes or cayenne for heat.

Can I use beef or vegetable broth?

Yes, but chicken broth provides the best balance for pork flavor.

What if the rice is still hard?

Cover and bake longer, adding 1/4 cup more broth if needed.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, mild flavors and simple ingredients make it perfect for kids.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish or two pans and adjust cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Baked Pork Chops & Rice is the ultimate comfort food, delivering a full, flavorful meal in just one dish. With tender, seasoned pork and perfectly cooked rice infused with savory juices, it’s a reliable recipe that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping an easy family dinner, this classic dish never disappoints.