Pineapple Pork Chops And Rice
Juicy pork chops paired with sweet pineapple and fluffy rice create a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.
- Brown the chops well in butter in a skillet.
- Add pineapple to the skillet and reduce heat.
- Cover and simmer until the pork chops are tender, about 20 minutes.
- Move the chops to one side of the skillet.
- Add water to the salt and bring to a boil.
- Stir in the rice and cover.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops in a mixture of pineapple juice and soy sauce for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have rice on hand, quinoa or couscous can be great substitutes. To enhance the dish, add red bell pepper or green onions to the pan while simmering. This recipe pairs beautifully with Tropical Glazed Sweet Potatoes for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pineapple pork chops over a bed of fluffy rice, drizzled with the pan juices for added flavor. A simple side salad or steamed vegetables complements the dish well. For added brightness, a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the finished plate can elevate the flavors beautifully.
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 skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep the dish moist. Cover and heat until warmed through, ensuring the pork remains juicy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Pork Chops And Rice contains roughly 506 calories, with 44g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (87% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1843mg per serving (80% 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will add a vibrant flavor to the dish. Just chop it into chunks and add it to the skillet when you normally would add the canned pineapple. You may want to adjust the cooking time slightly if the fresh pineapple is firmer.
What can I serve with pineapple pork chops?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or even hot buttered corn. For a more tropical feel, serve alongside Tropical Glazed Sweet Potatoes.
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
Pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, ensure the meat is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. Simmering in the pineapple sauce will help keep them moist.
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).