These juicy baked pork chops are packed with flavor and super easy to make. Simply season the meat and let the oven do the work for a tender dinner delight!
Honestly, the aroma while they bake will tease your taste buds. I love serving these with some mashed potatoes—it’s a classic combo that’s hard to beat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are delicious for this recipe, as the bone adds flavor. If you’re in a pinch, boneless chops will work too, but be careful not to overcook them.
Olive Oil: This helps the seasoning stick while adding moisture. You can swap it for other oils like coconut or avocado oil, but avoid oils with strong flavors that might alter the taste.
Spices: The mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika really lifts the flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper!
Herbs: Thyme or rosemary adds a nice touch, but you can also use Italian seasoning or even fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
Chicken Broth: This keeps the pork chops juicy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use vegetable broth or even water, although broth gives a better flavor.
How Do You Ensure Your Pork Chops Are Always Tender?
Getting perfectly tender pork chops is all about the right cooking method. Searing them before baking creates a lovely crust while locking in moisture.
- Start with a hot skillet. This helps to sear the meat quickly, keeping it juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer. When the internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C), they are perfectly cooked.
- Let them rest. Resting the pork chops for about 5 minutes allows the juices to settle back into the meat, making every bite juicy and tender.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have delicious, juicy pork chops every time! Enjoy your meal!
Juicy Baked Pork Chops for Tender Flavor
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
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish. Plus, you’ll want to let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving, so you can have a delicious meal on the table in less than half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a hot environment for baking, helping keep your pork chops tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. This is important because drying them will help them brown nicely when cooking. It makes a big difference!
3. Season the Pork Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme or rosemary if you’re using it. This spice mix adds tons of flavor to your chops!
4. Rub with Olive Oil:
Rub the pork chops with olive oil on both sides. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture all over the chops, making sure they are evenly coated. This is where the magic happens—seasoning the meat will give you great flavor!
5. Sear the Chops:
In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat over medium-high heat. When hot, add the seasoned pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re nice and browned. This step is key to locking in moisture and creating a delicious crust.
6. Add Chicken Broth:
Carefully pour the chicken broth (or water) into the skillet around the pork chops—avoid pouring it directly on top of them, so you don’t wash away the seasoning.
7. Bake the Pork Chops:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.
8. Add Butter and Rest:
When done, remove the skillet from the oven and place a pat of butter on each pork chop while they’re still hot. Let the butter melt, adding rich flavor. Then let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your pork chops with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy with your favorite sides, and savor every bite of these juicy baked pork chops!
Enjoy your tender, juicy baked pork chops!
FAQ for Juicy Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be mindful that they may cook faster, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work fine! Alternatively, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick or use a mix of chili powder for added flavor.
Can I Make These Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pork chops in advance! Season and sear them as instructed, then store in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to bake, just add the chicken broth and proceed with the baking instructions, adjusting the time as needed.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or use a microwave until heated through, ensuring they retain moisture.
