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Pork Chops with Guajillo Chili Sauce and Rice
How to make Pork Chops with Guajillo Chili Sauce and Rice: a spicy, savory recipe perfect for dinner. Simple steps, full flavor!

A Cozy Night In: Pork Chops with Guajillo Chili Sauce and Rice
There’s something deeply comforting about the spicy aroma of guajillo chilies blending with the sizzle of pork chops on a cold evening. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe for Pork Chops with Guajillo Chili Sauce and Rice is about to become one of your go-to favorites. I remember the first time I tried this dish; the flavors were so vibrant and comforting that it felt like a warm hug in the form of dinner. It's a perfect blend of spice, warmth, and hearty satisfaction.
What You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need. This recipe serves four, making it perfect for family dinners or saving for leftovers!
- 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 guajillo chilies, seeds removed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 2 cups water
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Getting Started: Prep Your Ingredients
Preparing your guajillo chilies properly is key to a smooth sauce. Start by toasting the chilies in a dry skillet over medium heat until they begin to puff up—this releases the chilies’ natural oils and enhances their flavor. Once toasted, soak the chilies in hot water for about 20 minutes to soften them up. This will make them easier to blend into a smooth, flavorful sauce.
Cooking Your Pork Chops and Rice
Step 1: Cook the Pork Chops
Season your pork chops generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork chops and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate to rest.
Step 2: Make the Guajillo Chili Sauce
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the onions and garlic until they're just starting to soften. Add the soaked and drained guajillo chilies, oregano, and cumin, and cook for a couple of minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. Strain the sauce back into the skillet, season with salt and pepper to taste, and simmer for another 5 minutes. The goal is to achieve a velvety texture that clings gently to a spoon.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
While your sauce simmers, start the rice. In a separate pot, bring water to boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 18 minutes. You want the rice to be fluffy and cooked through, but not mushy.
Bringing It All Together
Add the pork chops back into the skillet with the guajillo chili sauce. Coat the chops evenly and simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to let the meat soak up some of the sauce’s flavors. Serve the pork chops hot with a side of fluffy rice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for color and freshness.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pork Chops Every Time
- Let your pork chops rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This little trick helps them cook more evenly.
- Don't skip resting the cooked chops! Resting meat before slicing into it helps retain its juicy deliciousness.
- If guajillo chilies are too spicy for your taste, you can substitute them with milder chilies, like ancho or pasilla.
Final Thoughts
This recipe for Pork Chops with Guajillo Chili Sauce and Rice is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful culinary journey that warms the spirit with each bite. It marries the robust warmth of guajillo chilies with the comforting texture of pork chops and rice, creating a dish that's as suitable for a quiet night in as it is for a social dinner with friends. Enjoy the process, embrace the flavors, and most importantly, share the love and warmth it brings to your table.