This one-pot wonder is a weeknight lifesaver! Juicy, flavorful pork chops and perfectly cooked rice all in one Instant Pot? Yes, please! This recipe simplifies your dinner routine while delivering a delicious and satisfying meal the whole family will adore. Forget greasy pan-fried chops and separate rice cooking – this method ensures tender, moist pork chops and fluffy rice every time. Let's dive into the details.
What You'll Need:
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Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in pork chops (about 4-6, thickness matters – aim for at least 1 inch)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or your preferred rice variety)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water, but broth adds more flavor!)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 bay leaf for extra flavor
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Equipment:
- 6-quart Instant Pot (or larger)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add the olive oil, then the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until the onions are softened and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
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Season the Pork Chops: Season both sides of the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
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Brown the Pork Chops (Optional but Recommended): Once the onions are softened, carefully brown the pork chops in the Instant Pot, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds a delicious sear and enhances the overall flavor. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but browning adds depth.
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Add Rice and Broth: Add the rinsed rice to the Instant Pot. Pour in the chicken broth (or water), and stir gently to combine. If using, add the bay leaf now.
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Pressure Cook: Place the pork chops on top of the rice and broth mixture. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. After the 10 minutes, carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
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Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the lid, allowing the steam to escape. Remove the pork chops and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Fluff the rice with a fork. Discard the bay leaf (if used). Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen pork chops?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Add an extra 5-7 minutes to the pressure cooking time. It's also helpful to arrange the frozen chops in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe, as it cooks evenly and absorbs the liquid beautifully. However, you can experiment with other types of rice, such as brown rice or basmati rice. You may need to adjust the liquid ratio and cooking time depending on the rice type.
How do I know if the pork chops are cooked through?
The internal temperature of the pork chops should reach 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. If you're unsure, let them rest a bit longer – the residual heat will continue to cook the meat.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or green beans. Add them along with the onions and garlic during the sautéing step. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the vegetables you choose.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
While this recipe is specifically designed for the Instant Pot, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. Brown the pork chops as directed, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the rice, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the Instant Pot: Ensure there's enough space for the steam to circulate.
- Rinse your rice: Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch and prevents it from becoming sticky.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your pork chops are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
This Instant Pot pork chops and rice recipe is a simple yet elegant solution for a delicious and easy weeknight meal. Enjoy!
