Pork Chop and Rice Instant Pot Recipe: Juicy Chops With Fragrant Jasmine Rice

This Instant Pot method delivers juicy pork chops and perfectly cooked jasmine rice with minimal effort. The pressure cooker locks in moisture while infusing the rice with rich, savory flavor from the seared meat.

I developed this technique after too many dry, overcooked chops. Searing first creates a flavorful crust, then the rice cooks in the same pot, absorbing all those delicious browned bits.

What you get is tender pork with a golden sear, fragrant rice that’s never mushy, and a complete meal ready in under 45 minutes. The hands-off cooking means you’re free to prep a side dish or relax.

This becomes a weeknight staple once you try it. The pork stays succulent while the rice soaks up every bit of flavor.

Ingredients for Pork Chop and Rice Instant Pot

Pantry staples plus pork chops make this one-pot wonder come together effortlessly.

The pork chops are the star here. Bone-in, 1-inch thick cuts stay juiciest—avoid those paper-thin ones that dry out. I grab mine from Whole Foods or Costco (their organic pork has great marbling). The jasmine rice is non-negotiable for that fragrant, slightly sticky texture. Look for Thai jasmine at Asian markets if you want to level up. Rinse it well—this removes excess starch so it doesn’t turn to mush.

No jasmine rice? Long-grain white rice works in a pinch (reduce broth by 2 tbsp). Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos if avoiding gluten. Fresh thyme at triple the amount of dried. The chicken broth can be vegetable broth, but the flavor will be milder. Out of garlic? Garlic powder at half the amount saves the day (just add it with the rice).

Leftovers keep 4-5 days in the fridge—reheat with a splash of broth. Freezes beautifully for 3 months (thaw overnight). The rice actually tastes better the next day once it soaks up all those porky flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pork Chop and Rice in an Instant Pot

Here’s how to get tender chops and perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Bone-In Pork Chops

Pat the 4 whole Bone-In Pork Chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 1 tsp Kosher Salt and 0.5 tsp Black Pepper. This ensures a well-seasoned crust and juicy interior.

Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add 1 tbsp Olive Oil. Once shimmering, add the chops and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until deep golden brown. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they release easily from the pot. Transfer the chops to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics for the Rice Base

In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tbsp Olive Oil. Toss in the finely diced Yellow Onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced Garlic Cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown or it’ll turn bitter.

Stir in the 1.5 cups Jasmine Rice, 1 tsp Dried Thyme, and 1 whole Bay Leaf. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the grains turn slightly opaque at the edges. This step deepens the nutty flavor of the rice.

Step 3: Deglaze and Pressure Cook

Pour in the 2 tbsp Soy Sauce and 1.5 cups Chicken Broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. This deglazing step prevents burning and infuses the rice with rich, savory flavor.

Return the seared chops to the pot, nesting them into the rice mixture. Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes. The rice and chops will finish together perfectly.

Step 4: Rest and Finish with Butter

Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and discard the Bay Leaf. The chops should register 145°F internally and the rice should be tender with all liquid absorbed.

Stir the 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter into the rice for a glossy finish. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving—this ensures the juices redistribute in the chops and the rice fluffs up beautifully.

Flavor Customization for This pork chop and rice instant pot

Spice It Up

Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or 1 diced jalapeño with the onions for a subtle kick. For serious heat, stir in 1 tbsp sriracha after cooking. I love the warmth it adds to the rich pork flavor.

Herb Variations

Swap the thyme for 1 tsp dried rosemary or 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley. A sprig of fresh rosemary added with the rice gives a piney aroma that pairs beautifully with pork. 🌿

Citrus Twist

Brighten the dish with citrus by adding 1 tsp orange zest to the rice before cooking. Or stir in 2 tbsp lime juice at the end for a tangy finish. The acidity cuts through the richness nicely.

Umami Boost

Enhance the savory depth with 1 tbsp fish sauce in place of soy sauce, or add 1 tsp mushroom powder with the rice. Both add complex umami without overpowering the dish.

Creamy Texture

For richer rice, stir in ¼ cup coconut milk or 2 tbsp heavy cream at the end. This creates a luxurious texture that complements the pork beautifully. I often do this for special occasions. ✨

Sweet & Savory

Add 2 tbsp diced pineapple with the onions for a Hawaiian-inspired twist. Or stir in 1 tbsp honey at the end for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory notes.

Frequently Asked Questions