These oven-baked pork chops are juicy and full of flavor, making dinner a breeze! You simply season them and pop them in the oven. Easy peasy!
Honestly, I love how they turn out perfectly tender every time. Plus, the smell filling the kitchen makes everyone curious! You might want to double the recipe; they’re that good! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops tend to be juicier, but boneless are also great if you want less fuss. If you’re on a budget, chicken thighs are a decent substitute and can be cooked similarly.
Oil: I like using olive oil for flavor, but vegetable oil works well too. If you’re looking for something lighter, you could use a spray oil to keep things simple.
Spices: Customizing the spice mix is easy! Instead of smoked paprika, try Italian seasoning or a bit of chili powder for a kick. Fresh herbs can also work well! Just chop a teaspoon and mix them in.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Browned?
Getting that golden-brown crust is a real game changer for flavor! Here’s how to do it:
- First, pat the pork chops dry. This removes moisture that can prevent browning.
- Heat your pan over medium-high heat until it’s hot, almost smoking.
- Add the oil and let it heat for a few seconds before adding the chops.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps each chop sear properly. Cook in batches if needed!
- Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving them. This allows that lovely crust to form.
Letting the chops rest after baking helps keep them juicy, so don’t skip that step!
Oven-Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for color and subtle smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
For Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary sprig for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need approximately 30-35 minutes from start to finish for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your pork chops cook evenly and get that nice brown color!
2. Prepare the Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because removing excess moisture helps them brown nicely.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and dried thyme or rosemary. Mix well to combine all the flavors together.
4. Season the Chops:
Rub the pork chops on both sides with the olive oil. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chops, ensuring they are fully coated.
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat an oven-safe skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the pork chops in the pan. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. Don’t move them too much; let them create that beautiful crust!
6. Bake in the Oven:
After searing, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. If you used a different pan for searing, place the pork chops in a baking dish instead. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let Rest:
Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps keep the juices in, making them juicy and delicious!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your pork chops with a fresh sprig of rosemary if you like. Serve warm and enjoy every bite of your succulent oven-baked pork chops!
This simple wave of cooking will reward you with juicy, tender pork chops, perfectly seasoned, and ready to delight your family. Enjoy! 🍽️
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, boneless pork chops work great too! Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook slightly faster, typically around 10-12 minutes depending on thickness.
What Should I Do If My Pork Chops Are Dry?
If your pork chops turn out dry, consider brining them next time for extra moisture. To brine, soak them in a mixture of water and salt for 30 minutes before cooking. This can enhance juiciness significantly!
Can I Make This Recipe with Different Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning mix to your taste. Try adding herbs like oregano or basil, or spices like cumin for a different flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to help retain moisture.
