Mexicali Pork Chops(Microwave)
Mexicali Pork Chops feature tender pork loin cooked with a flavorful tomato and green chili sauce, perfect for a quick, spicy meal that appeals to fans of bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim separable fat from pork chops and sprinkle with salt.
- Arrange chops in an 8 x 8 x 2-inch microwave-safe baking dish with meatiest portions facing the outside.
- Cover with vented microwave-safe plastic wrap.
- Cook on 30% power (medium to low) for 10 minutes.
- Turn chops over.
- Rotate dish one-half turn.
- Cook for an additional 10 to 12 minutes or until chops are tender and no pink remains.
- Transfer to a serving platter and keep warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the pork chops in the tomato sauce with green chili peppers and onion for a few hours before cooking. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding fresh jalapeno peppers to the sauce. You can substitute the corn with black beans for a different texture or use diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for a fresher taste. Make sure to cover the dish properly to retain moisture while cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexicali Pork Chops alongside Mexican Red Beans for a hearty meal, or pair with a fresh salad for a lighter option. They also go well with Cactus With Chile or a side of steamed rice. For a complete dinner, consider offering quick tortillas or warm naan to scoop up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out, heating at medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexicali Pork Chops(Microwave) contains roughly 231 calories, with 11g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (180% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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, bone-in pork chops can be used, but they may require slightly longer cooking time due to their thickness. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F for safe consumption.
What can I serve with the pork chops?
These pork chops pair nicely with sides like Mexican Red Beans or a refreshing corn salad. You could also serve them with a side of warm tortillas or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pork chops and sauce in advance, then refrigerate them until ready to cook. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed if starting from a cold dish.
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).