Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a Southern classic that’s sure to become a family favorite: Smothered Pork Chops with Rice! This dish is a comforting blend of juicy, tender pork chops bathed in a rich, creamy mushroom gravy, all served over fluffy rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines simple ingredients with a touch of love, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With just a little prep and an hour of cooking, you’ll have a hearty, delicious dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover the secret to transforming everyday ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 cup rice
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting pork chops dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and sear pork chops until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Remove chops and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth, creating a smooth sauce. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Return pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45-50 minutes, or until pork chops are tender and nearly falling apart.
- In a separate pot, cook rice according to package instructions using the remaining chicken broth for added flavor.
- Once pork chops are done, taste sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve pork chops over a bed of rice, generously spooning the onion and mushroom gravy on top.
Tips
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the pork chops adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chops for that perfect golden crust.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chicken broth and cream of mushroom soup for the best flavor. If you have homemade broth, even better!
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving. Depending on your broth and soup, you might need to adjust the salt and pepper to suit your palate.
- Let It Simmer: Patience is key! Allow the pork chops to simmer in the sauce for the full 45-50 minutes to ensure they become tender and soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Rice Cooking Tip: For extra flavor, cook your rice in the remaining chicken broth instead of water. This simple swap enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Garnish for Presentation: Consider garnishing your finished dish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
