Cajun Pork Chops
Savory Cajun pork chops baked with rice, fresh vegetables, and flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for a hearty family dinner with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the seasoned pork chops.
- Place the browned pork chops in a large baking dish so that each chop is on the bottom.
- Put one bell pepper ring on each pork chop.
- Add a large spoonful of cooked rice into each bell pepper ring and pat it down until firm.
- Put a generous tablespoon of undiluted cream of chicken or chicken soup on top of the rice.
- Place a slice of onion and a slice of tomato on top of each rice-filled bell pepper.
- Pour mashed tomatoes over the pork chops and cover the dish with foil.
- Bake at 375°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding Cajun seasoning to the pork chops before browning. You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version or use a different cream soup, such as mushroom or celery. If you prefer, you can replace the pork chops with chicken thighs for a slightly different flavor profile. This dish pairs well with a side of green beans or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cajun pork chops with a side of cornbread or a light coleslaw for a complete meal. A crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette also complements the rich flavors of the dish. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with Chicken, Rice, Broccoli And Cheese for a comforting combination that your family will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pork chops in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat as this can dry out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cajun Pork Chops contains roughly 352 calories, with 13g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 957mg per serving (42% 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 bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in pork chops. Just be mindful that they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through. Always check the internal temperature to ensure they reach at least 145°F.
What can I substitute for the rice?
If you're looking for a low-carb option, you can replace the rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa. Both alternatives absorb flavors well and provide a nutritious base for the dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if cooking it straight from the fridge to ensure it heats through evenly.
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).