Baked pork chops are juicy and flavorful, perfectly seasoned and cooked to tender perfection. They’re a great choice for an easy dinner that the whole family will love.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good pork chop? I often serve mine with mashed potatoes or fresh veggies to make it a complete meal. Yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are ideal because the bone adds flavor and moisture. If you only have boneless, that works too, but keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This gives a nice flavor and helps the spices stick. Canola or vegetable oil are good substitutes if you prefer something more neutral.
Seasonings: Don’t skip the garlic and onion powder; they add great depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne can give a nice flavor kick.
Broth or Wine: Chicken broth works well, but feel free to use vegetable broth or even water if you’re in a pinch. White wine adds a lovely taste, too, but is completely optional.
How Do I Get Juicy, Tender Pork Chops?
Getting juicy, tender pork chops is all about the cooking process. Here are some crucial tips:
- Patting them dry before seasoning helps achieve a nice crust when searing.
- Make sure your skillet is preheated! This gives the pork a beautiful brown exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; 145°F (63°C) is your target temperature.
- Letting the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking is essential. This helps them keep their juices locked in.
How to Make Delicious Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in 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 smoked paprika (optional for color and flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Fresh sprigs of rosemary for garnish
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for baking, plus an additional 5 minutes for resting the chops after baking. In total, you’ll be looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key for creating that nice, golden crust on your pork chops.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. This helps them brown nicely in the skillet. You want to get rid of any excess moisture!
3. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and dried thyme or rosemary. This blend will give your chops a wonderful flavor.
4. Season the Chops:
Rub both sides of the pork chops evenly with olive oil, ensuring they’re well coated. Then, generously sprinkle the seasoning mix over both sides of the chops, pressing it in gently.
5. Sear the Chops:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown.
6. Add the Liquid:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Pour the chicken broth (or white wine) around the chops and add the butter. This will create a beautiful sauce as the chops bake.
7. Bake the Chops:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 10-15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
8. Rest Before Serving:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making the pork even juicier!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and serve your delicious baked pork chops hot with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies. Dig in!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful pork chops that are sure to impress!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work just fine! However, they’ll cook more quickly, so start checking the internal temperature after about 8-10 minutes in the oven.
What Should I Do If My Pork Chops Are Too Thick?
If your pork chops are thicker than 1 inch, consider increasing the baking time by a few minutes and checking with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the right temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops in the seasoning mix with some olive oil will enhance the flavor. Just make sure to pat them dry before cooking to help with browning.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chops gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of broth to keep them moist. Enjoy your meal!
