Save Juicy pork chops coated in a fragrant Parmesan and herb crust, served over fluffy seasoned rice for a comforting and flavorful meal.
I first made this for a weekend family dinner when everyone wanted something delicious but easy. The savory Parmesan crust on the pork is always a hit, and the herbed rice brings the whole meal together.
Ingredients
- Bone-in or boneless pork chops: 4 (about 1-inch thick)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup
- Gluten-free or regular breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup
- 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
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 2 cups
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Salt (for rice): 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper (for rice): 1/4 teaspoon
- Fresh parsley (for rice): 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Lemon zest (optional): 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Dish:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or sheet pan.
- Mix Parmesan Herb Coating:
- In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prep 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:
- Place pork chops on the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with any remaining olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the crust is golden.
- Make Rice:
- Meanwhile, 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 15–18 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:
- Serve pork chops over a bed of rice, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Save This recipe is now one of our family favorites for weekend dinners when everyone gathers around the table. Even picky eaters love the crispy pork and fragrant rice.
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
Calories: 470, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 37 g, Protein: 38 g (per serving)
Save Enjoy these comforting Parmesan herb pork chops and rice with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables. Simple, satisfying, and sure to be a new family favorite.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What type of pork chops work best here?
Bone-in or boneless pork chops about 1 inch thick yield best results, balancing juiciness and even cooking.
- → Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of gluten-free?
Yes, regular breadcrumbs can be used unless gluten-free is specifically required.
- → How do I ensure the crust stays crispy after baking?
Brush pork chops lightly with olive oil before coating and avoid overcrowding the baking dish for a crisp crust.
- → What can I add to the rice for extra flavor?
Fresh parsley and optional lemon zest add brightness; chopped chives are also a tasty addition.
- → Is there a recommended internal temperature for pork chops?
Cook pork chops to 145°F (63°C) internally for safe consumption and optimal juiciness.