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Crispy Pork Chops and Rice Casserole

crispy pork chops and rice casserole - featured image

A comforting one-pan dinner featuring golden, crispy pork chops nestled atop herb-infused rice, all baked together for a hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish combines classic flavors with easy preparation.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick, 2 lbs)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, divided
  • 3/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish.
  2. Pat pork chops dry. Season both sides with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Dredge lightly in flour, shaking off excess.
  3. Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high. Sear pork chops 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add chopped onion and cook 2 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic for 30 seconds.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine uncooked rice, melted butter, thyme, rosemary, sage, paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Stir in cooked onion and garlic.
  6. Spread rice mixture evenly in skillet or casserole dish. Pour chicken broth over rice. Add peas if using and gently stir.
  7. Nestle seared pork chops on top of rice.
  8. Cover tightly with foil or lid. Bake for 35 minutes.
  9. Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese if using, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until rice is tender and juices are bubbling.
  10. Check pork chops for doneness (145°F internal temperature) and rice for fluffiness. If rice is undercooked, add 1/4 cup broth and bake 10 more minutes.
  11. Let casserole rest 10 minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley and serving.

Notes

Searing the pork chops before baking is essential for a crispy exterior. Use low-sodium broth to reduce sodium. For gluten-free, substitute flour with a gluten-free blend. For dairy-free, use olive oil instead of butter and omit cheese. Brown rice can be used with extra broth and longer baking time. Let casserole rest before serving for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: pork chops, rice casserole, one pan dinner, comfort food, easy casserole, family meal, oven baked, crispy pork, weeknight dinner