A easy oven-roasted pork chops recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Juicy, tender, and seasoned just right, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil, or as needed
- 1 ½ cups uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cups water
- 4 teaspoons instant chicken bouillon
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
Step 1
Warm your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, warm up some olive oil and brown the pork chops on both sides, which should take about 5 minutes. While that’s cooking, mix the rice and celery together in a baking dish. Lay the onion slices over the rice, then place the browned pork chops on top.
Step 2
Bring water to a rolling boil in a saucepan. Stir in the bouillon, Italian seasoning, and salt until everything’s dissolved, then pour this flavorful broth over the pork chops. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Let it bake for about an hour to an hour and ten minutes, or until the rice is tender and the pork chops are nice and fork-tender.
Step 3
Once that’s done, take off the foil and scatter the sliced bell peppers over the top. Put the dish back in the oven uncovered and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the peppers soften. Then you’re ready to dig in!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken broth instead of instant chicken bouillon?
Yes, you can substitute about 3 cups of fresh chicken broth for the water and bouillon for a richer flavor.
What cut of pork chops works best for this recipe?
Bone-in or boneless pork chops about ¾ inch thick work well and stay tender during baking.
Can I prepare this dish without browning the pork chops first?
Browning adds flavor and texture, but you can skip it if short on time; just increase baking time slightly.
Is it possible to use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice will require more liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?
They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F and be fork-tender after baking.
Can I add other vegetables besides bell peppers?
Absolutely, vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms can be added in the final baking stage.
Should I cover the dish with foil the entire baking time?
Cover tightly with foil for the first hour, then uncover for the last 10-15 minutes to soften the peppers.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of the oven?
Yes, brown the pork chops first, then combine ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
VP
By Vikram Patel
Recipe Writer
Vikram writes simple recipes with helpful tips to make cooking easier and more enjoyable.
