Baked pork chops are juicy and flavorful, making for a simple and satisfying meal. Just season them up, pop them in the oven, and let the magic happen!
My favorite part? The delicious aroma fills the house while they cook. Who can resist a tasty pork chop night? They’re also great with mashed potatoes on the side! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can choose bone-in or boneless. Bone-in chops provide more flavor, but boneless is easier to eat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for pork loin chops instead.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps with browning. If you’re out, vegetable oil works too, or you can use melted butter for a richer flavor.
Spices: The combination of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder gives a nice kick. Feel free to swap smoked paprika for regular for a slightly smoky flavor, or use your favorite spice blend if you’re in a pinch.
Dried Thyme: This herb adds a fragrant touch. If you prefer fresh herbs, use about three times as much. Rosemary is also a tasty alternative.
Chicken Broth: This keeps the pork chops moist and flavorful. You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water, but broth definitely enhances the dish!
How Do You Get Juicy Baked Pork Chops?
Getting juicy pork chops is all about proper preparation and cooking. Here’s how:
- Pat Dry: Drying the chops helps them brown better. Moisture on the surface creates steam instead of a nice sear.
- Rub Oil: A good coating of oil ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior.
- Sear First: Searing in a hot skillet locks in juices and adds flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat pork.
- Rest: Letting them rest after baking allows juices to settle back into the meat, giving you a moist chop.
These tips will help you nail that juicy texture every time!
How to Make Delicious Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (plus fresh sprigs for garnish if desired)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (for baking pan moisture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of preparation time and 20 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by turning your oven on to 400°F (200°C) so it can warm up while you prepare the pork chops.
2. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. This seasoning will give your pork chops a delicious flavor!
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry to remove any moisture. This helps them sear better. Then, rub olive oil all over each chop, making sure they are nicely coated.
4. Season the Pork Chops:
Sprinkle your seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops, gently pressing down so it sticks well.
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a skillet on medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely golden brown. This step adds great flavor and helps lock in moisture!
6. Place in Baking Dish:
Once seared, move the pork chops to a baking dish. Pour the chicken broth or water around the chops in the dish; this keeps them moist while baking.
7. Optional Garnish:
If you like, you can add sprigs of fresh thyme on top of the pork chops for an extra burst of flavor.
8. Bake:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
9. Rest the Pork Chops:
Once done, take the pork chops out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy when you cut into them.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm pork chops with the pan juices spooned over the top. They’re fantastic served alongside mashed potatoes or roasted veggies!
Enjoy your deliciously baked pork chops!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use pork loin or even pork tenderloin; just adjust the cooking time accordingly as those cuts may cook faster. Always ensure they reach the same internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Should I Do If My Pork Chops Are Thicker Than 1-Inch?
If your pork chops are thicker, you’ll need to increase the baking time. Start checking the internal temperature at around 20-25 minutes. If they aren’t up to 145°F (63°C) yet, continue baking and check every 5 minutes.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Searing the Pork Chops First?
Yes, you can skip the searing step, but your pork chops might not have that lovely crispy crust. If you do skip it, just remember to reduce the cooking temperature slightly or add a few extra minutes to ensure they cook through.
How Should I Store Leftover Baked Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave gently or warm them in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
