Craving a delicious, comforting meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe for Pork Chop Crock Pot Recipes with Rice is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Tender, juicy pork chops simmered to perfection in a flavorful sauce, served alongside fluffy rice – it's a family favorite that's sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas, perfect for healthy meals without sacrificing deliciousness. Say goodbye to complicated cooking and hello to effortless deliciousness!
Ingredients:
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For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Chops:
- Season the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pat them down lightly to ensure even seasoning.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chops for about 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step helps to seal in the juices and add flavor.
Crock Pot Cooking:
- Place the seared pork chops in your slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
- Pour the sauce over the pork chops in the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the pork chops are cooked through and tender. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Cooking the Rice:
- While the pork chops are cooking, prepare the rice. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
- Combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
Serving:
- Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the pork chops over a bed of fluffy rice, spooning the delicious sauce over the top.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a bay leaf or a few sprigs of fresh thyme to the slow cooker along with the pork chops and sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Different rice: Feel free to use brown rice, wild rice, or any other type of rice you prefer. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Add vegetables: Include chopped carrots, celery, or onions to the slow cooker for a more complete meal.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook the pork chops and rice ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This easy and delicious pork chop recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal any day of the week! It's a true testament to the power of simple ingredients transforming into a truly satisfying healthy meal.