These juicy, oven-baked pork chops are super easy to make! Just season, pop them in the oven, and enjoy a tasty meal without all the fuss.
Seriously, they turn out so tender every time! I like to pair mine with some veggies and mash for a cozy dinner. Trust me, you won’t have leftovers! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Choose boneless pork chops for a quick cook and tenderness. If you prefer bone-in, just adjust the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasonings stick. You can use melted butter or avocado oil if you’ve got those on hand.
Garlic & Onion Powder: These spices pack a lot of flavor! If you like fresh herbs, try using minced garlic and chopped onions instead. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using fresh ingredients.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a lovely smoky flavor. You can swap it out for regular paprika or chili powder if you want a bit more heat.
How Do You Get Juicy Pork Chops Every Time?
To keep your pork chops juicy, follow a few key steps. Start by ensuring they are dry before seasoning; this helps form a nice crust. Here’s how:
- Ensure the oven is fully preheated; this helps cook the chops evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfect juiciness.
- Let the pork chops rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy.
By following these tips, you’ll have pork chops that are both flavorful and juicy, ready to enjoy with your sides!
Juicy and Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, plus resting time. In total, you can have a scrumptious dinner ready in about 40 minutes. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your pork chops cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Pat and Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them achieve a nice sear when cooked.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This blend will add great flavor to your chops!
4. Add Olive Oil:
Rub the olive oil evenly over both sides of each pork chop. This helps the seasonings stick and keeps the meat moist while cooking.
5. Season the Chops:
Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the pork chops. Press gently so the spices stick well to the meat.
6. Arrange for Baking:
Place the seasoned pork chops on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded for even cooking.
7. Bake the Pork Chops:
Bake the pork chops in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Broil for a Crispy Finish:
If you want a nicely browned exterior, switch the oven to broil and broil the pork chops for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
9. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for even juicier meat.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if you like, then serve your delicious pork chops hot with your favorite side dishes.
Enjoy your tender, juicy pork chops and watch everyone come back for seconds!
FAQ for Juicy and Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! If you prefer bone-in pork chops, just keep in mind that they may take a bit longer to cook. You should adjust the baking time and check for doneness when they reach around 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use melted butter or avocado oil. Both options will add rich flavor and help keep the pork chops moist during cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops for a few hours or overnight in your favorite marinade can enhance the flavor and tenderness. Just be sure to pat them dry again before applying the seasonings and baking.
