These juicy oven-baked pork chops are super simple to make! Just season them, pop them in the oven, and let the magic happen. They turn out tender and flavorful every time!
I love serving these with some veggies or mashed potatoes. It’s a quick dinner that makes you feel like a culinary master! Plus, who doesn’t love tender, tasty meat? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are juicy and full of flavor, but boneless can be just as good! If you’re looking for something leaner, you might choose pork tenderloin, though cooking times will vary.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. You can use vegetable oil or avocado oil if you prefer. Don’t use too much or it can make the chops greasy.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These are great for adding a nice depth of flavor. If you prefer fresh, you can use minced garlic and finely chopped onion, but reduce the amounts since fresh is stronger.
Paprika: I love smoked paprika for a little extra flavor, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika works too. You can also skip it if you want a lighter taste, or try chili powder for some heat.
Herbs: Thyme and Italian seasoning are both perfect choices. You can easily swap in dried rosemary or even fresh herbs if you have them on hand!
How Do I Bake Pork Chops Without Drying Them Out?
The key to juicy pork chops is all about preparation and cooking technique. Here are some helpful steps to achieve that perfect cook:
- Dry First: Patting the chops dry promotes better browning, which enhances flavor.
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes. This keeps the juices in rather than letting them run out onto your plate.
- Monitor Temperature: Using a meat thermometer helps avoid overcooking. Aim for 145°F for juicy, tender chops!
- Broiling Option: A quick broil at the end can give you a nice crust, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious, juicy pork chops every time!
Juicy Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and 20 to 25 minutes to cook, making a total time of around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy option for any weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with foil to make cleanup easier later on.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better when cooking!
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix it well—this will be your seasoning blend!
4. Season the Chops:
Rub both sides of each pork chop with olive oil. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides. Don’t be shy—press lightly to ensure it sticks!
5. Bake the Chops:
Place the seasoned pork chops in your prepared baking dish, making sure they’re in a single layer. Then, pop them in the oven and let them bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as the thickness of the chops can affect cooking time.
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
If you want your chops to have an extra golden crust, switch to the broiler for about 2–3 minutes at the end of baking. Just watch them closely to ensure they don’t burn!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if you like, and serve warm.
This simple method guarantees tender, juicy pork chops with a flavorful crust, perfect for a satisfying dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops?
Absolutely! Just ensure you thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge or using the cold water method—place the pork chops in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can easily substitute it with vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted butter. Each will add a slightly different flavor, but they all work well!
How Can I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals or warm them gently on the stove. Adding a splash of broth or water can help keep them moist!
What Should I Serve With These Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad. They also go great with rice or quinoa for a complete meal!
