A Hearty Classic: Slow Cooked Pork Chops with Rice

There’s something about pork chops and rice cooked slowly together that takes me back to Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house. The tender pork, infused with the aroma of herbs and spices, alongside fluffy, perfectly cooked rice, created a comforting blend that felt like a warm hug. Today, I’m excited to share with you this foolproof slow cooker recipe that combines juicy pork chops with savory rice. It's an easy, minimal effort meal that promises to transport you to those cherished family dinners.

Why Choose Slow Cooking?

If you’re new to the world of slow cooking, you might be wondering why choose this method for pork chops. The answer is simple: slow cooking ensures that the pork chops come out exceptionally tender and flavorsome, which can sometimes be challenging to achieve with other cooking methods. Busy lifestyles can benefit hugely from this set-it-and-forget-it approach, leaving you with a meal that feels like you’ve spent the whole day preparing it.

Ingredients You'll Need

  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
  • 1 cup of long grain white rice
  • 2 1/4 cups of chicken broth
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon of dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Easy-to-Follow Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Pork Chops
Begin by seasoning both sides of your pork chops with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and sear each chop for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they develop a nice golden color. This step is crucial as it locks in the flavors.

2. Saute the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions. Saute them until they become translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and saute for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be sure not to burn the garlic!

3. Layer in the Slow Cooker
Place the seared chops at the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread the sauteed onion and garlic over the chops, then sprinkle over the dried thyme and basil.

4. Add the Rice and Broth
Next, evenly spread the uncooked rice over the pork chops. Pour the chicken broth over the rice, ensuring it is fully submerged. The broth will absorb into the rice during cooking, giving it a rich flavor and perfect texture.

5. Set It and Forget It
Cover and set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. By the end of the cooking time, the pork should be tender enough to easily break apart with a fork, and the rice should be fluffy and fully cooked.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooked Pork Chops and Rice

  • Choosing the Right Rice: Long grain rice like Basmati or Jasmine is ideal for this recipe as it stays fluffy and separate when cooked.
  • Checking Doneness: Be sure to check that the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.
  • Adding Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers. Add them to the slow cooker 1 hour before the end of cooking to keep them from becoming too soft.

Wrapping It Up

These slow-cooked pork chops with rice are more than just a meal; they're a nostalgic journey back to family gatherings, laughter around the table, and the warmth of shared dishes. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just a quiet weekday dinner, this recipe offers a simple yet fulfilling experience. Dish out generous portions, gather everyone around the table, and enjoy the rich flavors and tender pork that only a slow cooker can provide. Happy cooking!

Your Thoughts and Variations

I love hearing from you all! Have you tried adding your own twist to this recipe? Maybe a sprinkle of parmesan on top or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of spice. Share your favorite variations and experiences in the comments below—after all, every cook brings their own magic to the kitchen! And if you loved this meal as much as I think you will, please consider sharing this recipe with friends and family.