Savory Oven-Baked Pork Chops

juicy pork chops are seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then baked to perfection for a simple yet flavorful meal. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner that requires minimal effort but maximum taste.

Tips For Perfect Results

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; pork is best at 145°F.
Let the chops rest for a few minutes after baking to keep them juicy.
Season both sides generously to enhance the flavor.

Ingredients 0/8

1 teaspoon olive oil, or as needed 6 (1-inch thick) pork chops 1 ½ cups uncooked long-grain rice 2 stalks celery, sliced 1 medium onion, sliced 4 teaspoons instant chicken bouillon ½ teaspoon salt 1 medium green bell pepper, cut into 6 rings

Why This Dish Is A Crowd Favorite

Full of bold flavors and is easy to prepare. The oven does most of the work, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The pork chops stay juicy and tender with a crispy, savory crust.

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then brown the pork chops on both sides for about 5 minutes until they get a nice golden color. Meanwhile, mix the rice and chopped celery together in a baking dish. Layer the onion slices over the rice, then place the browned pork chops on top.

Step 2

Bring water to a boil in a saucepan and stir in the bouillon, Italian seasoning, and salt until everything dissolves. Pour this flavorful broth over the pork chops and rice, then cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Pop it into the oven and bake for about an hour to an hour and ten minutes, or until the rice is tender and the pork chops are cooked through.

Step 3

Once that’s done, take off the foil and scatter the sliced bell peppers over the top. Slide it back into the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, just until the peppers soften a bit. Then it’s ready to serve!

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people cooked this recipe

By Daniel Wilson

Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.

How To Serve This Dish

Pair these chops with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Mashed potatoes or rice also make great sides. A light apple sauce can add a nice touch of sweetness.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the meat tender. For longer storage, freeze the pork chops and consume within 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in pork chops for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chops can be used, but they may need a few extra minutes to cook through.

What can I substitute for instant chicken bouillon?

You can use chicken broth or stock instead, adjusting the amount of added salt accordingly.

Is it necessary to brown the pork chops before baking?

Browning adds flavor and color but you can skip it if short on time; the chops will still cook in the oven.

Can I use a different type of rice in this dish?

Long-grain rice works best, but you can use other types; just adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.

How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?

Pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F and the rice is tender.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate for a few hours before baking, but add the bell peppers during the last baking step.

What can I do if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

Use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme as a substitute.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure your instant chicken bouillon is gluten-free or use homemade broth.