Donna'S "Deer" Chops And Rice
Juicy butterfly chops baked over rice with tomatoes, onions, and green peppers create a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix rice, cans of tomatoes, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, and pepper in a large baking dish.
- Lay the butterfly chops on top of the rice mixture.
- Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, turn the chops over.
- Cover again and bake for another 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the butterfly chops in your favorite spices or a bit of soy sauce before baking. You can substitute the green pepper with any other bell pepper or omit it for a milder flavor. If you're short on time, use quick-cooking rice instead of regular, but adjust the liquid accordingly. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the deer chops and rice hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal. For a comforting dessert, consider serving with a slice of warm Cran-Apple Crisp.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave portions in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Donna'S "Deer" Chops And Rice contains roughly 595 calories, with 60g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (120% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2087mg per serving (91% 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 a different type of meat instead of butterfly chops?
Yes, you can substitute the butterfly chops with pork chops or chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches a safe level for the type of meat you choose.
What can I do if I don't have canned tomatoes?
If canned tomatoes are unavailable, you can use fresh tomatoes, about 4-5 medium-sized, chopped, or substitute with a jar of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed to balance the flavors.
Is there a way to make this recipe more nutritious?
Absolutely! You can add a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to the rice mixture for extra nutrients. Additionally, using brown rice instead of white rice will increase the fiber content and enhance the dish's overall healthiness.
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).