Save Juicy pork chops coated in a fragrant Parmesan and herb crust, served over fluffy seasoned rice for a comforting and flavorful meal.
The first time I made these Parmesan herb pork chops for my family, everyone loved the savory crust and how it perfectly paired with the herby rice. It quickly became our favorite busy weeknight dinner since it's so simple yet feels special.
Ingredients
- Pork Chops: 4 bone-in or boneless (about 1-inch thick)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup gluten-free or regular
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Fresh Thyme Leaves: 1 tablespoon (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon for pork, plus 1/2 teaspoon for rice
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon for pork, plus 1/4 teaspoon for rice
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Long-Grain White Rice: 1 cup
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: 2 cups
- Unsalted Butter: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh Parsley (for rice): 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon, optional
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or sheet pan.
- Make Parmesan Herb Coating:
- In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Prep Pork Chops:
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
- Coat Pork Chops:
- Press each pork chop into Parmesan herb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Bake Pork Chops:
- Place pork chops on prepared baking dish and drizzle with any remaining olive oil. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and crust is golden.
- Cook Rice:
- Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan bring chicken broth, butter, salt, and pepper to a boil. Add rice, stir, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Finish Rice:
- Remove rice from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in parsley and lemon zest if using.
- Serve:
- Serve pork chops over rice, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Save Serving these pork chops always reminds me of cozy Sunday dinners at home, where laughter filled the air and everybody cleaned their plates. Pairing the pork with fragrant rice takes it to another level for our family gatherings.
Required Tools
Baking dish or sheet pan, mixing bowls, saucepan with lid, measuring cups and spoons, and a meat thermometer help make this recipe come together smoothly every time.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (Parmesan cheese) and gluten (breadcrumbs unless using gluten-free). Always check product labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 470 calories, 18 g total fat, 37 g carbohydrates, 38 g protein.
Save This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want comfort and flavor without a fuss. Enjoy every bite knowing it's crowd-pleasing and easy to customize!
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pork chops works best for this dish?
Both bone-in and boneless pork chops about 1-inch thick are suitable, providing a juicy and tender result when baked properly.
- → Can I substitute ingredients for dietary preferences?
Yes, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to accommodate gluten sensitivity, and nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a dairy-free option.
- → How is the rice cooked for best flavor?
The rice is simmered in low-sodium chicken broth with butter and seasoned with salt, pepper, chopped parsley, and optional lemon zest to enhance its aroma and taste.
- → What temperature should pork chops reach when cooked?
They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure safety while remaining juicy and tender.
- → Are there any suggested variations to try?
Try adding chopped chives to the rice for extra flavor or substitute chicken breasts if preferred, adjusting cooking times accordingly.