Save Juicy pork chops coated in a fragrant Parmesan and herb crust, served over fluffy seasoned rice for a comforting and flavorful meal.
This meal quickly became a favorite in my home after the first chilly autumn night when I baked it. The aroma of herbs and Parmesan mixing with the golden pork chops always brings everyone to the kitchen before dinner is ready.
Ingredients
- Pork chops: 4 bone-in or boneless (about 1 inch thick)
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup grated
- Bread crumbs: 1/2 cup (gluten-free or regular)
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Thyme: 1 tablespoon fresh leaves or 1 teaspoon dried
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- White rice: 1 cup long-grain
- Chicken broth: 2 cups low-sodium
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Lemon zest (optional): 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prep oven and pan:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or sheet pan.
- Mix crust ingredients:
- In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare pork chops:
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- Coat pork chops:
- Press each pork chop into the Parmesan herb mixture to coat both sides evenly.
- Arrange and bake:
- Place pork chops on the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with any remaining olive oil. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until pork reaches 145°F (63°C) and crust is golden.
- Make rice:
- In a saucepan, bring chicken broth, butter, salt, and pepper to a boil. Add rice, stir, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Finish rice:
- Remove rice from heat. Fluff with a fork and stir in parsley and lemon zest if using.
- Serve:
- Plate pork chops over rice and garnish with parsley if desired.
Save Sharing this with my family reminds me of peaceful dinners at my grandmother's house when hearty meals made the evening special for everyone at the table.
Substitution Suggestions
Boneless chicken breasts can be used instead of pork chops. Just adjust the baking time until the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
Best Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads and a glass of Pinot Grigio for an easy upgrade to family dinner.
Nutrition Information
Each serving offers 470 calories, 18 g fat, 37 g carbohydrates, and 38 g protein, making it balanced and filling.
Save This easy recipe brings together hearty flavors and versatile textures, promising a comforting meal on any night. Enjoy every last bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pork chops work best?
Both bone-in and boneless pork chops about 1-inch thick are ideal for this dish, ensuring even cooking and juiciness.
- → Can I substitute Parmesan cheese?
Yes, nutritional yeast works as a dairy-free alternative while maintaining a savory, cheesy flavor.
- → How do I ensure a crispy herb crust?
Coat pork chops evenly with the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, brushing them lightly with olive oil before baking at 400°F.
- → What’s the best way to cook the rice?
Simmer long-grain white rice in chicken broth with butter, salt, and pepper, then fluff with a fork and stir in fresh parsley and optional lemon zest.
- → Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Boneless chicken breasts can replace pork chops; just adjust the baking time to ensure thorough cooking.