China Town Chops
A flavorful Chinese-inspired dish featuring tender pork chops served over seasoned fried rice with mushrooms and soy sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the pork chops, then set aside.
- Brown the rice with butter in the skillet.
- Stir in 2 cups of hot water and the drained sliced mushrooms.
- Add the contents of the vegetable sauce envelope to the skillet.
- Place the browned pork chops on top of the rice mixture.
- Sprinkle soy sauce over the top.
- Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in soy sauce and ginger for a few hours before cooking. You can substitute the pork chops with chicken breasts or tofu for a different protein. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the rice mixture. This dish is also versatile; feel free to include your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or snap peas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the China Town Chops with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. Pair it with a light soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil to enhance the flavors. This dish also pairs beautifully with Pork Chop Teriyaki for a complete Asian-inspired meal. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chops and rice mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Cover and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of China Town Chops contains roughly 1168 calories, with 9g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and vitamin D (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2059mg per serving (90% 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 brown rice instead of fried Rice-A-Roni?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and water ratio. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time, about 40-50 minutes. Be sure to check the package instructions for the best results.
What can I serve with the China Town Chops?
In addition to steamed vegetables, you might consider serving this dish with egg rolls or spring rolls for a complete meal. A light salad with sesame dressing can complement the flavors well. For a heartier option, try pairing it with a side of Chinese noodle skillet.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Ensure that the Rice-A-Roni you are using is gluten-free or substitute it with a gluten-free rice mix. Always check labels for hidden gluten ingredients.
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).