These oven-baked pork chops are juicy, tender, and oh-so-easy to make! Just season them and let your oven do the magic.
I love how flavorful they come out. Pair them with some veggies or mashed potatoes, and you have a perfect meal. Who knew dinner could be this simple? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops offer great flavor and moisture, but you can use boneless ones if you prefer. Just adjust cooking time since boneless chops might cook faster.
Olive Oil: I use olive oil for its rich taste, but vegetable oil or canola oil works well too if you want something neutral. You could even use melted butter for a different flavor!
Seasonings: Feel free to mix it up! If you don’t have thyme or rosemary, dried Italian seasoning or a blend of your favorite dried herbs can bring a delicious twist. Try adding some mustard powder for extra zing!
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional, but if you’re not keen on heat, you can skip it entirely or swap it with a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness.
What’s the Best Way to Sear Pork Chops for Juiciness?
Searing your pork chops creates a delicious crust while keeping them juicy inside. It’s all about the heat and timing!
- Pat the pork chops dry first; moisture will prevent a good sear.
- Heat your skillet until it’s really hot—this could take a few minutes. You can test it by flicking a drop of water; it should sizzle immediately.
- Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Don’t move them around too much; let them form that crust!
Once they’re seared, you can pop them in the oven to finish cooking. Resting them afterward allows juices to redistribute, making them even tastier.
Oven-Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (plus a few sprigs fresh for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a little heat
Time Needed:
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, plus 5 minutes of resting. That means you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in about 35 minutes—perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, take your pork chops and gently pat them dry with paper towels. This will help achieve that nice sear we’re looking for!
2. Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme or rosemary, and cayenne pepper (if using). This blend will give your chops a wonderful flavor!
3. Season the Chops
Rub both sides of each pork chop with olive oil so the seasoning sticks well. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides, pressing down lightly to get it to adhere.
4. Sear the Pork Chops
Heat an oven-safe skillet, like a cast iron pan, over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot (you can test by flicking a drop of water on it—if it sizzles, it’s ready!), place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden brown.
5. Bake in the Oven
After searing, add a few fresh sprigs of rosemary or thyme on top of the chops for some extra aroma. Then, carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 8-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest and Serve
Once they’re done, take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This step is key to keeping them juicy! After resting, serve them hot, garnished with those fresh herbs, and enjoy with your favorite sides like roasted veggies or mashed potatoes.
These pork chops are sure to impress, all while being super easy to make. Enjoy your delicious dinner! 🍽️
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will cook a bit faster, so make sure to check their internal temperature around the 6-8 minute mark after transferring to the oven. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F/120°C) until warmed through, or microwave them gently to avoid drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Cuts of Meat?
Yes! This recipe can also work with thick chicken breasts or even thick cuts of beef. Just adjust the cooking times—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and beef may vary depending on your desired doneness.
How Can I Add More Flavor?
For an extra flavor boost, marinate the pork chops in your favorite marinade for a few hours before cooking. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, like adding a dash of lemon juice or swapping in a different mustard or spice blend for variety!