These oven-baked pork chops are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make! Just season them up and let the oven do the work while you relax.
I always love when dinner cooks itself! Paired with some roasted veggies, these chops make a quick meal that’s perfect any night of the week. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless pork chops work well, too, but be careful not to overcook them as they tend to dry out faster.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for searing, but you can substitute it with any cooking oil you have on hand, like vegetable or canola oil. Use melted butter for a richer flavor if that’s more your style.
Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings! If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a herbier flavor, try rosemary instead of thyme. Mix and match to your taste!
Butter: This is optional, but I highly recommend it for adding flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can skip it or use a splash of broth for moisture instead.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork Chops for Maximum Flavor?
Searing pork chops locks in the juices and adds a delicious crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Pat the chops dry! This helps them sear beautifully rather than steam.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the oil—this prevents the meat from sticking.
- Sear each chop for 2-3 minutes. Don’t crowd the pan; do it in batches if necessary.
- Look for a nice golden brown crust before flipping. This shows they are nicely caramelized.
With these steps, your pork chops will have an amazing taste and texture that you and your family will love!
Oven-Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 2 tablespoons butter (for finishing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, plus an additional 5 minutes for resting. In total, you can enjoy delicious oven-baked pork chops in just around 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures perfect cooking conditions for your pork chops!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Drying them helps achieve a nice sear. Now, grab a small bowl and mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme (or parsley), salt, and black pepper. This mixture will add great flavor!
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Rub both sides of each pork chop with olive oil. Then, generously coat them with your seasoning mix. Make sure they’re evenly covered for the best flavor!
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the pork chops in the skillet and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds flavor.
5. Bake the Pork Chops:
Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven (or place the seared chops in a baking dish if your skillet isn’t oven-safe). Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C) for juicy, tender meat!
6. Finish with Butter (Optional):
If you want to take it up a notch, add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan in the last 2 minutes of baking. Spoon the melted butter over the chops for extra richness and flavor.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the pork chops out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle, making every bite delicious!
And there you have it! Enjoy your flavorful, juicy oven-baked pork chops with your favorite sides!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that boneless pork chops usually cook faster, so check for doneness a little earlier, around 10-12 minutes, to avoid drying them out.
What Should I Serve With Oven-Baked Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F/150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to keep them moist.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chops overnight with the seasoning and a bit of acid (like lemon juice or vinegar) works wonders to enhance their flavor. Just make sure to pat them dry before cooking for that perfect sear!
