Save Juicy pork chops coated in a fragrant Parmesan and herb crust, served over fluffy seasoned rice for a comforting and flavorful main dish that's perfect for a family meal.
I first tried this Parmesan herb pork chops and rice recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something filling but quick to make. The aroma from the oven instantly made everyone hungry, and it turned out to be an instant hit at our dinner table.
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
- Fresh thyme leaves: 1 tablespoon, or 1 teaspoon dried
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (plus 1/2 teaspoon for rice)
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (plus 1/4 teaspoon for rice)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup
- Chicken broth: 2 cups, low-sodium
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh parsley for rice: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Lemon zest (optional): 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or sheet pan.
- Mix Herb Crust:
- In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black 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, coating both sides evenly.
- Bake Pork Chops:
- Place pork chops on the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with any remaining olive oil. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the crust is golden.
- Make Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth, butter, salt, and pepper to a boil. Add rice, stir, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff and Garnish Rice:
- Remove rice from heat. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped parsley and lemon zest if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve pork chops over a bed of rice. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Pin it This recipe quickly became a family favorite, especially on chilly evenings. Watching everyone gather around the table for seconds makes these pork chops extra special for us.
Required Tools
Baking dish or sheet pan, mixing bowls, saucepan with lid, measuring cups and spoons, meat thermometer (recommended)
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (Parmesan cheese), Gluten (breadcrumbs unless using gluten-free). Always check product labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 470 calories, 18 g total fat, 37 g carbohydrates, 38 g protein
Pin it This comforting dish is perfect for both busy weekdays and relaxed family nights. The crispy, herby crust and fresh parsley rice make every bite unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well; just adjust the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
- → How do I ensure a crispy Parmesan crust?
Press the pork chops firmly into the Parmesan herb mixture and bake at a high temperature to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- → What can I substitute for Parmesan to make it dairy-free?
Try nutritional yeast as a dairy-free alternative; it adds a similar savory, cheesy flavor.
- → Is it important to use chicken broth for the rice?
Chicken broth adds depth and richness, but you can substitute vegetable broth or water if preferred.
- → Can fresh herbs be substituted with dried ones?
Dried herbs can be used; reduce quantities by about one-third to maintain balanced flavors.