Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these irresistible Herbed Pork Chops with Rice! Imagine perfectly seared, golden-brown pork chops infused with aromatic herbs, paired with fluffy rice that's guaranteed to make your taste buds dance. This recipe isn't just a meal - it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a cooking novice or a seasoned home chef, these herbed pork chops will elevate your dinner game and impress everyone at the table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Pork chops
- Rice
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh herbs (sage, parsley)
- Butter
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting pork chops dry with paper towels and seasoning both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Mince fresh garlic and chop sage and parsley leaves finely, keeping herbs separate from garlic.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt and become slightly foamy.
- Place pork chops into the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- While pork chops are cooking, prepare rice according to package instructions, typically using a 2:1 water to rice ratio and simmering until tender.
- During the last minute of cooking, add minced garlic to the skillet around the pork chops, allowing it to become fragrant but not burn.
- Remove pork chops from skillet and let them rest for 3-5 minutes to retain juices.
- Sprinkle fresh chopped herbs over the pork chops and serve alongside the prepared rice.
- Optional: Create a quick pan sauce by deglazing the skillet with a small amount of white wine or chicken broth, scraping up browned bits for extra flavor.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops reach 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness and food safety.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Sear: Use paper towels to remove moisture from pork chops before seasoning. This helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook pork chops in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets proper heat and develops a nice sear.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use freshly chopped herbs for maximum flavor - the difference is remarkable compared to dried herbs.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Pan Sauce Bonus: Don't waste those delicious browned bits! Deglaze the pan with wine or broth to create an extra flavor boost.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg
