These oven-baked pork chops are so juicy and tasty, you won’t believe how easy they are to make! With just a few simple spices and a quick bake, dinner is ready!
I love how they stay tender in the oven. Serve them with mashed potatoes and you’ll think you’re having a fancy meal without the fuss! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops. Bone-in chops tend to have more flavor, but if you’re short on time or prefer boneless, they work just as well. Aim for chops around 1 inch thick for the best results.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for keeping the pork juicy. If you’re looking for a different flavor, you could try avocado oil or even melted butter instead.
Spices: The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika gives wonderful flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder can be a nice substitute, although the taste will differ slightly.
Fresh Parsley: This is optional, but a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and freshness. If you don’t have parsley, consider using green onions or cilantro instead!
How Do I Achieve a Perfect Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing is key for juicy pork chops with a beautiful crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork chops; this locks in the juices.
- Pat the chops dry; moisture can prevent a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can lower the temperature and steam the meat instead of searing it. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Give them time; sear for 2-3 minutes without moving them to get that nice golden brown color.
After searing, moving them to the oven allows for even cooking without drying them out. Following this method should get you perfect, juicy pork chops every time!
Easy Juicy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless 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 a smoky flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. So, you can expect to have a delicious dinner ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your pork chops cook evenly. While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, gently pat the pork chops dry. This helps achieve a nice sear when you cook them. Next, rub both sides of each pork chop with olive oil to keep them moist and flavorful.
3. Seasoning Time:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Sprinkle this spice mixture generously on both sides of the pork chops to ensure they are packed with flavor!
4. Sear the Chops:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This will give them a delicious crust!
5. Bake in the Oven:
After searing, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven (or move the pork chops to the prepared baking sheet). Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are safe to eat while staying juicy.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once you’ve removed the pork chops from the oven, let them rest for about 5 minutes. This is an important step, as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like, slice them up, and serve immediately!
Enjoy your tender, juicy oven baked pork chops!
FAQ for Easy Juicy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but they need to be fully thawed first to ensure even cooking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or submerge them in cold water in a sealed bag for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use other oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter. Each will add a slightly different flavor, but they all work well for keeping the chops moist.
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Let them rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep them juicy!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place any uneaten pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying them out.
