Save Juicy pork chops coated in a fragrant Parmesan and herb crust, served over fluffy seasoned rice for a comforting and flavorful meal.
I first cooked these Parmesan Herb Pork Chops on a chilly weeknight, and they quickly became a staple for their delicious flavor and simple preparation. The crispy, cheesy crust pairs perfectly with the herbed rice, making it a meal my family requests often.
Ingredients
- Pork chops: 4 bone-in or boneless (about 1 inch thick)
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup grated
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup gluten-free or regular
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons fresh, finely chopped
- Thyme: 1 tablespoon fresh leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon for chops, 1/2 teaspoon for rice
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon for chops, 1/4 teaspoon for rice
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup
- Chicken broth: 2 cups low-sodium
- Butter: 1 tablespoon unsalted
- Additional parsley: 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped
- Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare baking dish:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease baking dish or sheet pan.
- Make herb mixture:
- Combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl.
- Prep pork chops:
- Pat pork chops dry. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- Coat pork chops:
- Press pork chops into Parmesan herb mixture, coating evenly.
- Arrange and bake:
- Place chops on baking dish and drizzle any remaining olive oil. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and crust is golden.
- Cook rice:
- In a saucepan, bring chicken broth, butter, salt, and pepper to a boil. Add rice, stir, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 to 18 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Finish rice:
- Remove from heat, fluff rice with fork, stir in parsley and lemon zest if using.
- Serve:
- Serve pork chops over rice, garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Save Sharing this meal with my kids always sparks lively conversation at the table, and watching everyone reach for seconds is so satisfying. It reminds me of family dinners growing up where comfort food brought us together.
Required Tools
Baking dish or sheet pan, mixing bowls, saucepan with lid, measuring cups and spoons, meat thermometer (recommended)
Allergen Information
Contains milk in Parmesan cheese and gluten in breadcrumbs unless gluten-free are used. Always check product labels before cooking for any potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 470 calories, 18 g total fat, 37 g carbohydrates, and 38 g protein.
Save This comforting dish is perfect for both casual weeknights and special occasions. Parmesan Herb Pork Chops & Rice delivers flavor and warmth in every bite.
Kitchen Help
- → What type of pork chops work best?
Bone-in or boneless pork chops about 1-inch thick are ideal for even cooking and juicy results.
- → Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Yes, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used without compromising the herb crust’s texture and flavor.
- → How do I ensure the pork chops stay juicy?
Patting the pork chops dry, brushing olive oil, and avoiding overbaking help keep them tender and juicy.
- → What can I add to the rice for extra flavor?
Fresh parsley and lemon zest brighten the rice, and optional chives can add mild onion notes.
- → Is this dish suitable for a dairy-free diet?
Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast to maintain a cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free.
- → What temperature should pork reach when cooked?
Bake until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe and juicy meat.