These juicy oven-baked pork chops are a family favorite! They’re easy to make and packed with flavor, making dinner a breeze. Just season, bake, and enjoy!
I love serving these with some mashed potatoes or veggies. It’s a quick meal that always gets smiles at the table! Plus, leftovers are great for lunch! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give extra flavor, but boneless are easy to work with. If you’re watching your fat intake, opt for leaner cuts like loin chops.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasonings stick. You can substitute with vegetable oil or avocado oil if you prefer or if olive oil isn’t available.
Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works too. For garlic and onion powder, fresh minced garlic and onion can be used; just adjust the quantity to taste, since fresh is stronger.
Thyme/Italian Seasoning: Feel free to swap with another herb like rosemary or oregano based on personal preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Juicy?
The key to juicy pork chops is in the preparation and cooking method. Start by patting them dry. This helps achieve that golden crust during searing. Searing is important; don’t rush it! Make sure your skillet is nice and hot before adding the chops.
- Rub the chops evenly with oil and spices for the best flavor.
- Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned, then finish in the oven.
- Always use a meat thermometer. Pull them out when they hit 145°F (63°C) for the juiciest results.
- Let them rest post-cooking! This redistributes the juices, keeping each bite tender and moist.
How to Make 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
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-30 minutes total, including cooking and resting time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This will make cleanup super easy later on!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is key to helping them get a nice, crispy crust when seared. The drier the surface, the better the browning!
3. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, and black pepper. This mix is what will give your pork chops a delicious flavor.
4. Season the Chops:
Rub both sides of the pork chops with olive oil, ensuring they’re well coated. Then, sprinkle and rub the spice mixture all over the chops, making sure they’re generously seasoned.
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, no worries! You can sear them in any stovetop pan and then transfer to your baking sheet. Add a drizzle of oil to the skillet if needed. Sear each pork chop for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned.
6. Bake in the Oven:
Now, either transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven (if it’s oven-safe) or place the seared pork chops on the lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer.
7. Rest and Serve:
After baking, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring they stay juicy. If you like, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your tasty pork chops with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad!
FAQ for Juicy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
It’s best to thaw your pork chops before cooking. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for a quicker option. Cook them straight from frozen could result in uneven cooking.
Can I Substitute the Olive Oil?
Absolutely! You can swap olive oil for vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. Each will work well for searing and seasoning the pork chops. Just stick to oils that have a high smoke point.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven at a low temperature or microwave them covered to keep them moist. Add a splash of chicken broth if they seem dry!
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Pair with Pork Chops?
Pork chops pair beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad. For a heartier option, you could serve them with rice or a creamy risotto!
