These juicy oven-baked pork chops are a hit at dinner! With a simple seasoning blend, they turn out tender and full of flavor every time. Plus, they cook easily without fuss.
As someone who loves a quick meal, I adore how these pork chops can bake in the oven while I prepare some sides. Perfect for busy nights when I still want something delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops tend to be juicier, but boneless ones are leaner and cook faster. If you have other cuts like pork loin or pork tenderloin, you can use those too!
Olive Oil: This is great for flavor and helps sear the pork. If you’re looking for alternatives, canola oil or melted butter work well too.
Smoked Paprika: It adds a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can work as substitutes but will change the flavor slightly.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also use other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
To ensure your pork chops come out juicy, the key is in the seasoning and cooking method. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by patting the pork chops dry; this helps the seasoning stick and promotes better browning.
- Don’t skip the searing step! It locks in flavors and creates a tasty crust.
- Monitor the cooking time closely; use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F. This ensures they’re cooked through without getting dry.
- Let the chops rest after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly juicy pork chops ready to enjoy!
Juicy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about ¾ to 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for cooking. After that, give the pork chops about 5 minutes to rest. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to delicious finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chops cook evenly and get a nice golden color.
2. Prepare the Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the seasoning stick to the meat and prevents steaming while cooking.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mix will give your pork chops wonderful flavor!
4. Apply Olive Oil:
Brush both sides of the pork chops with olive oil. This not only adds good taste but also helps achieve a nice, crusty exterior.
5. Season the Chops:
Take the seasoning mix and sprinkle it evenly over both sides of your pork chops. Press gently to make sure it sticks well.
6. Sear the Chops:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully add the seasoned pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned.
7. Bake the Chops:
Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake the pork chops for about 10-15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chops, but you want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Let Them Rest:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork chops rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat juicy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious pork chops with some chopped fresh parsley if you like. Slice and serve while warm, and enjoy your juicy oven-baked pork chops!
This cooking method guarantees tender, juicy pork chops with delightful flavor. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method. Once thawed, pat them dry and follow the recipe as instructed.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika or chili powder for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the smokiness will be reduced.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also add a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While pork chops are best fresh, you can prep them ahead by seasoning and searing them. Store them in the fridge and then bake them right before serving for a quick meal!
