Apple Rice Pork Chops
Juicy pork chops glazed with apple juice and served over tender rice with applesauce, creating a comforting dish with sweet and savory flavors perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dredge pork chops in flour, salt, pepper, and ground cloves.
- Brown chops on both sides in butter in a large skillet.
- Add 1/2 cup apple juice; cover and simmer until chops are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Keep chops warm on a serving platter.
- Bring remaining apple juice to a boil; stir in the Minute rice.
- Cover and reduce heat; simmer for 5 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in chunky applesauce.
- Place chops on rice to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in the apple juice and spices for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have Minute rice, regular long-grain rice can be used, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. For a twist, add some cinnamon to the applesauce or serve with a side of Ken'S Macho Baked Beans for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork chops over the rice mixture with a generous scoop of chunky applesauce on top. For a balanced meal, pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. This dish also goes well with a side of Cousin Kathy'S Quickie Quiche for a delightful brunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops and rice in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. For best results, reheat gently to avoid drying out the pork.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple Rice Pork Chops contains roughly 1067 calories, with 14g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2287mg per serving (99% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of pork chops?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts or thighs for the pork chops. Adjust cooking times as chicken may cook faster. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and rice in advance, then reheat them together just before serving. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat thoroughly.
What can I use if I don't have apple juice?
If you don't have apple juice, you can use apple cider or a mixture of water and a bit of sugar for sweetness. Alternatively, white grape juice works as a suitable substitute with a similar flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).