Coconut, Ginger & Lime Pork Chops with Rice

Tender pork chops simmer in fragrant coconut milk with ginger, garlic, and lime, cooking alongside fluffy rice for an all-in-one dinner that’s bright, creamy, and deeply flavorful. Includes an easy variation for bone-in pork chops.

Yields: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Special Equipment: Dutch oven

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 4 boneless, skinless pork chops (1–1 ½ inch thick)

• 1 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 bunch cilantro (stems separated from leaves)

• 1 chili pepper, optional

• 1 tbsp crushed or minced ginger (or a 1-inch piece, finely minced)

• 1 tbsp crushed garlic (or 3 cloves, minced)

• 2 cups uncooked rice (not instant)

• 1 can full-fat coconut milk

• 2 cups chicken stock

• 2 tbsp fish sauce, optional (for depth and umami)

• 1 lime, sliced and divided

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Sear the Pork Chops: In a Dutch oven or large skillet with a tight-fitting lid, heat olive oil over medium until shimmering. Sear pork chops on both sides until golden. Remove and set aside

2. Sauté Aromatics: Add red onion, ginger, garlic, cilantro stems, and chili pepper (if using) to the pan. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir until fragrant without browning.

3. Toast the Rice: Add rice and stir to coat with oil and aromatics.

4. Add Liquids and Lime: Pour in chicken stock and a few lime slices. Stir well. Add coconut milk and combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with fish sauce (if using), salt, or pepper.

5. Combine and Cook: Nestle pork chops back into the pot. Bring just to a gentle boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20 minutes.

6. Rest and Serve: Turn off heat and let rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork. Serve topped with fresh cilantro leaves and extra lime slices.

Bone-In Pork Chop Adjustments:

• Sear chops 3–4 minutes per side to build color and render fat.

• Cook covered on low for 25 minutes instead of 20.

• Keep covered for the full 10-minute resting period.

Fluffier Rice Tip:

• If the rice is too moist from the extra juices, remove chops, fluff rice gently with a fork, and let sit uncovered 3–5 minutes to release steam.