Juicy Pork Chops with Fluffy Rice: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe
This recipe delivers perfectly cooked pork chops with a side of fluffy rice – a classic comfort food combination that's easy to make, even for beginner cooks! We'll focus on techniques to ensure juicy pork chops and perfectly cooked rice every time.
Ingredients:
For the Pork Chops:
- 2 (1-inch thick) boneless pork chops
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of your favorite herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth (for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Season generously: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and your optional herbs. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
- Sear to perfection: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and a nice crust forms. This step is crucial for a flavorful and juicy chop.
- Reduce heat and cook through: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they're cooked through. Avoid overcooking, as this will dry out the meat.
- Rest before serving: Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender chop.
Cooking the Rice:
- Rinse the rice (optional): Rinsing the rice under cold water for a minute or two can help remove excess starch and result in fluffier rice.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water (or broth), and salt.
- Bring to a boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Simmer and steam: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Fluff and serve: Once cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're cooking more than two pork chops, cook them in batches to ensure proper browning and even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your pork chops. Consider adding a touch of brown sugar for a sweet and savory combination.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve your juicy pork chops and fluffy rice with your favorite vegetables, a simple salad, or a delicious gravy for a truly satisfying meal.
This recipe is a great starting point. Feel free to adapt it to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!
