These oven-baked pork chops are juicy and flavorful, cooked to perfection with just a few simple spices. They make a great main dish for any dinner!
I love how easy they are to prepare—just season, pop them in the oven, and relax! Plus, the smell while they cook? Oh, it’s simply mouthwatering! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe because the bone adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too. Just shorten the cooking time a bit, as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chops moist while cooking. You can substitute with vegetable oil or canola oil for a more neutral flavor.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder are essential for flavor. Fresh garlic and onion can be used instead—just adjust the amounts. Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky taste, but regular paprika or even chili powder works too.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary are perfect for seasoning pork. If you have Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence, feel free to use those instead!
How Do You Get a Perfectly Sear on Your Pork Chops?
Getting that nice golden-brown crust is key to a delicious pork chop! Here’s how to do it:
- First, make sure your skillet is really hot before adding the pork chops. This helps sear the meat quickly.
- Pat the chops dry with paper towels. Moisture can prevent browning.
- Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes without moving them around. The more you leave them alone, the better the crust!
- After searing, carefully transfer the skillet to the oven to finish cooking while keeping the crust intact.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked pork chops ready to enjoy!
Oven-Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in 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 dried thyme or rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 20-30 minutes baking in the oven. So, you can have delicious oven-baked pork chops ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, turn on your oven and set it to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for the pork chops!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice crisp on the outside when cooking.
3. Make the Spice Mix:
In a small mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme (or rosemary), salt, and black pepper. Mix it well so all the spices are blended together.
4. Coat the Pork Chops:
Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the pork chops. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture all over them, rubbing it in gently to coat each chop evenly.
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden-brown color.
6. Bake the Chops:
Carefully transfer the skillet with the seared pork chops into your preheated oven. Bake them for about 10-15 minutes, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Then, you can garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if you want, and they’re ready to enjoy!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful oven-baked pork chops served with your favorite sides! 🍽️
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops work perfectly in this recipe! Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as they will cook faster—typically around 8-12 minutes, depending on thickness.
What Can I Substitute for Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika can be used, or even a pinch of chili powder for some heat! Just keep in mind that it won’t have the same smoky flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to keep them juicy, adding a little broth or water if they seem dry.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops in Advance?
Absolutely! Marinating them for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge can enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to wipe off excess marinade before searing for the best crust.
