These juicy oven-baked pork chops are easy to make and full of flavor! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll get tender, mouthwatering chops that the whole family will love.
I love how this recipe makes the pork chops so juicy without any fuss. Just season, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for busy weeknights or when friends come over! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using either bone-in or boneless chops, both about 1-inch thick. Bone-in tends to have a richer flavor. If you’re avoiding pork, boneless chicken thighs are a great substitute with similar cooking time.
Olive Oil: This oil adds healthy fats and helps the seasoning stick. If you’re looking for an alternative, avocado oil works well too and has a high smoke point.
Spices: The combination of garlic and onion powder adds a wonderful aroma. You can use fresh minced garlic and onion if you prefer. Paprika gives color and flavor; feel free to switch it with cayenne for a kick!
Herbs: Thyme or rosemary adds earthiness, but if you don’t have dried herbs, fresh herbs work beautifully too. Or, you can skip this if you prefer just the spices!
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Browning on My Pork Chops?
To get that nice golden-brown crust, start by patting the pork chops dry. Removing excess moisture is key! Applying olive oil not only helps the spices stick but also encourages browning.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a hot cooking environment.
- Flip the chops halfway through baking to get an even color on both sides.
- If you want an extra touch, broil them for 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
Let them rest for a few minutes after taking them out so the juices redistribute, keeping your chops juicy and tender.
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 salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes total cooking time. With everything combined, you’ll have a wonderful meal ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This prepares a hot environment for baking those chops to perfection. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This removes moisture that can prevent browning. The drier the surface, the better your chops will brown!
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and optional dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. This blend will add a punch of flavor!
4. Season the Chops:
Rub both sides of each pork chop with olive oil. Then sprinkle generously with the spice mixture, ensuring each chop is evenly coated for the best flavor.
5. Bake the Pork Chops:
Arrange the seasoned pork chops on the baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through so they cook evenly!
6. Check for Doneness:
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F (63°C). This step is crucial to ensure your pork chops are juicy and safe to eat.
7. Broil for Extra Juiciness (Optional):
If you want a beautiful golden-brown crust, switch your oven to broil for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
8. Rest Your Chops:
Once out of the oven, let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring deliciously tender meat.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your perfectly baked pork chops hot with your favorite sides!
Enjoy these tender and juicy oven-baked pork chops that are perfectly golden and full of flavor! Happy cooking!
FAQ for Juicy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While this recipe is perfect for bone-in or boneless chops, you can also use loin or rib chops. Just adjust cooking times if using thinner or thicker cuts to ensure they reach 145°F internally.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
Start by patting the chops dry before seasoning to achieve perfect browning. Cooking to the correct internal temperature of 145°F and letting them rest for 5 minutes afterwards are key steps to keep them juicy and tender!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Yes! Marinating the pork chops in olive oil and your favorite herbs and spices for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge) can infuse more flavor and help to tenderize the meat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
