Pin Recipe Juicy pork chops coated in a fragrant Parmesan and herb crust, served over fluffy seasoned rice make a comforting and flavorful meal that will please a variety of palates.
I first made this recipe when seeking an easy dinner that still felt special on a busy weeknight. The aroma of herbs and Parmesan baking in the oven while the rice simmers on the stovetop always brings everyone to the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Bone-in or boneless pork chops: About 1-inch thick, 4 pieces.
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated.
- 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
- Prep The Oven:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease baking dish or sheet pan.
- Mix Breading:
- Combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl.
- Prepare Pork Chops:
- Pat pork chops dry. Brush both sides with olive oil.
- Coat Chops:
- Press pork chops into herb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Bake:
- Place chops on baking dish. Drizzle with any remaining olive oil. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, until pork reaches 145°F (63°C) and crust is golden.
- Make Rice:
- In saucepan, bring chicken broth, butter, salt, and pepper to boil. Add rice, stir, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15 to 18 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Finish Rice:
- Remove rice from heat. Fluff with fork, stir in parsley and lemon zest if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve pork chops over rice, garnish with extra parsley.
Pin Recipe This dish quickly became a family favorite at Sunday dinners. Even picky eaters love the crispy topping, and everyone usually requests seconds.
Required Tools
Have a baking dish or sheet pan, mixing bowls, saucepan with lid, measuring cups and spoons, and a meat thermometer ready for best results.
Allergen Information
Contains milk from Parmesan and gluten from breadcrumbs unless using gluten-free options. Always check for hidden allergens in your ingredients.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Each serving provides approximately 470 calories, 18g total fat, 37g carbohydrates, and 38g protein for a nourishing meal.
Pin Recipe 
This comforting meal is simple to prepare and always impresses with its herby crust and tender pork. Enjoy with your favorite sides for a full dinner experience.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the pork chops stay juicy?
Pat the pork chops dry before coating and brush with olive oil to help seal in moisture during baking.
- → Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops work well but adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
- → What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast adds a similar savory flavor without the cheese.
- → How is the rice made flavorful?
Cooking the rice in chicken broth with butter, parsley, and optional lemon zest creates a rich, aromatic base.
- → Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the pork crust gluten-free.