These easy oven-baked pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! With just a few simple ingredients like seasoning, they come together quickly and taste amazing.
I love making these for dinner because they cook in the oven, leaving me free to relax or whip up some tasty sides. Plus, who can resist that crispy outer layer? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are ideal for extra flavor and moisture, but boneless chops work too. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use pork loin or tenderloin instead.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. You can swap it with vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer a richer flavor.
Spices: Smoked paprika brings a nice depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika, chili powder, or even a touch of cumin can work as substitutes. Feel free to adjust spices based on your taste preferences.
Dried Herbs: I love thyme and sage, but you can use Italian seasoning or even fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Just remember to use about three times the amount if using fresh.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
A common struggle is ensuring pork chops don’t turn out dry. Here are a few key techniques:
- **Brining:** If you have time, brining the pork chops in saltwater for a couple of hours can enhance juiciness.
- **Even Thickness:** Ensure your pork chops are roughly the same thickness. This helps them cook evenly.
- **Resting:** Letting the pork chops rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to settle, which keeps them moist when cut.
- **Check Temperature:** Use a meat thermometer and take them out at 145°F (63°C) to avoid overcooking.
- **Broiling Option:** For that crispy finish, broiling the last few minutes gives a delightful crust—just keep an eye on them!
Follow these tips for delicious, juicy pork chops that your family will love!
Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh thyme or sage leaves (optional, for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 25 minutes to bake. You’ll have juicy, delicious pork chops ready in about 35 minutes total, plus a few minutes for resting!
Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your pork chops cook evenly and nicely. While the oven is heating, line a baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup later—trust me, it makes a difference!
2. Mixing the Spice Blend:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried sage, salt, and black pepper. This blend is what gives your pork chops that amazing flavor!
3. Preparing the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the spices stick to the meat better. Once they’re dry, brush both sides of each chop with olive oil. This helps keep them juicy and adds a lovely flavor.
4. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
Now, take that delicious spice mixture and rub it all over each pork chop, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Get your hands in there for the best coverage! Place the seasoned pork chops in the prepared baking dish or on the baking sheet, making sure they’re in a single layer.
5. Baking Time:
Place the pork chops in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you have a meat thermometer, this will help you ensure they’re just right!
6. Crisping Up:
If you like a nice crispy crust, you can switch to broiling for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent any burning. This step adds a lovely golden finish!
7. Resting and Serving:
After you take the pork chops out of the oven, let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even juicier when you slice into them. Garnish with fresh parsley and optional thyme or sage leaves before serving.
8. Enjoy!
Your oven-baked pork chops are ready! Serve them up with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just note that they might cook a bit faster, so start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Instead of Dry Rubbing?
Yes, marinating is a great option! You can mix the spices with olive oil and a bit of vinegar or lemon juice, then marinate the pork chops for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
What Sides Pair Well with Oven Baked Pork Chops?
These pork chops go wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve them with rice or quinoa to soak up any delicious juices!