Succulent Pork Chops and Flavorful Rice Pilaf Recipe
Recipe Overview
This delightful Pork Chops and Rice Pilaf recipe combines the juicy tenderness of perfectly seasoned pork chops with the savory notes of a fragrant rice pilaf. This easy-to-make dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, comes together effortlessly in the oven, allowing you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones while the flavors meld beautifully. Get ready to experience a wonderful blend of textures and tastes that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Preparation Time: 12 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 12 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 4 servings
- Recipe Category: Oven
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice Pilaf Mix | 1 package |
| Salt | 3 to 6 teaspoons |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Water | As required (for rice pilaf) |
| Margarine (or butter) | As required (for rice pilaf) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 177.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 11.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 56.3 mg |
| Sodium | 50.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 0 g |
| Protein | 16.9 g |
Instructions
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Seasoning the Pork Chops: Begin by seasoning your pork chops generously with salt and pepper, ensuring that both sides are evenly coated. This step is essential for enhancing the flavor of the meat.
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Browning the Pork Chops: In a non-stick skillet, place the seasoned pork chops over medium heat. Brown both sides until they achieve a nice golden color, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. No additional oil is needed, as the non-stick surface will prevent sticking while allowing the natural flavors to develop.
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Preparing the Rice Pilaf: In a 9″x13″ baking pan, combine the rice pilaf mix with the necessary ingredients as indicated on the package, typically water and margarine. It’s recommended to use hot water to facilitate the melting of the margarine, ensuring a well-combined and flavorful base for the pilaf.
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Assembling the Dish: Once the rice pilaf is thoroughly mixed and the margarine is melted, spread it evenly across the bottom of the baking pan. Carefully lay the browned pork chops on top of the rice pilaf, ensuring they are evenly spaced for optimal cooking.
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Baking the Dish: Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and promote even cooking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pan inside. Bake for 1 hour, allowing the pork chops to cook through while imparting their flavors into the rice pilaf.
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Adjusting for Thickness: If your pork chops are particularly thick, you may want to extend the baking time to 1 hour and 15 minutes to ensure they are cooked thoroughly. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
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Experimentation: Feel free to experiment with different rice pilaf mixes available in stores, although chicken-flavored varieties often complement the pork chops best.
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Serving: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender pork chops. Serve the pork chops alongside the fluffy rice pilaf, drizzling any remaining juices from the baking dish over the top for added flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Pork Chops and Rice Pilaf, a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends alike with its simplicity and robust flavor profile. Don’t forget to share your experience on lovewithrecipes.com!
