These juicy oven-baked pork chops are super easy to make and packed with flavor! The blend of spices keeps them tender and delicious, perfect for any dinner.
I love serving these with mashed potatoes or a simple salad. You can’t go wrong with a dish that’s both tasty and quick to prepare. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are my favorite for more flavor, but boneless ones work too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using pork loin or even chicken breasts.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and richness. If you’re out of olive oil, you can substitute with vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter for a different flavor.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder are key for flavor but if you want a fresh taste, minced garlic and chopped onions can be used instead. Smoked paprika gives a nice depth; if you don’t have it, regular paprika works but will miss the smokiness.
Herbs: Dried thyme or Italian seasoning enhances flavor, but feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even oregano could work well.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
The trick to juicy pork chops starts with proper preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Pat Dry: Always dry your pork chops with paper towels before seasoning. This helps achieve that nice golden sear.
- Don’t Rush the Sear: Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. This step is vital for locking in juices.
- Correct Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork chops are cooked to 145°F (63°C). Overcooking makes them dry.
- Let Rest: After taking them out of the oven, allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes before cutting. This step keeps them moist.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly juicy and delicious oven-baked pork chops every time! Enjoy the cooking process!
Juicy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 20 minutes to cook, for a total time of approximately 30 minutes. You’ll get delicious, juicy pork chops with minimal effort and a quick cooking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Getting your oven ready ensures the pork chops cook evenly and get that perfect golden color.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry using paper towels. This step is important because it helps achieve a beautiful sear and keeps the chops juicy during cooking.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Give it a quick stir to blend everything nicely.
4. Season the Pork Chops:
Rub the pork chops all over with olive oil. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly on both sides of the chops, pressing lightly to help it stick. This brings out the fantastic flavors!
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet, like a cast iron skillet, over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds great color.
6. Bake in the Oven:
Now it’s time to transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the pork chops for 8-12 minutes, depending on their thickness. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check that!
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pork chops from the oven. Allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping them moist and tasty.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious pork chops with freshly chopped parsley for that touch of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your juicy, flavorful oven-baked pork chops alongside your favorite sides!
Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed pork chops for even cooking and better flavor. If you have frozen chops, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the cold water method (submerge in a sealed bag in cold water) until thawed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can make it healthier by using a leaner cut of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, and reducing the amount of oil. You can also increase the amount of herbs and spices to enhance flavor without adding calories.
What Should I Serve with Oven-Baked Pork Chops?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with quinoa or rice for a complete meal!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the pork chops in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, covered, until warmed through.
