These easy oven-baked pork chops are juicy and bursting with flavor! With just a sprinkle of seasoning and a quick bake, dinner is ready in no time!
Honestly, I love how simple this recipe is. It leaves me with more time to catch up on my favorite show while dinner cooks. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pan meal? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops keep the meat juicy during baking. If you have boneless chops, feel free to use those, but reduce the baking time slightly since they cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. You can substitute it with canola oil or melted butter for a different flavor.
Paprika: This gives a lovely color and mild flavor. If you want more spice, consider using smoked paprika or chili powder. For a milder version, you can skip it altogether.
Dried Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add wonderful aroma. If you don’t have them, Italian seasoning works well, or you can use fresh herbs if you have them available. Just double the amount if they’re fresh!
Lemon: The lemon juice at serving time brightens the dish. If you’re out of lemons, lime is a great alternative, or even some vinegar for acidity.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
To keep your pork chops juicy, start by patting them dry. This helps create a better sear and allows the seasoning to stick. The key steps are ensuring they’re well-coated with oil and seasonings and baking at the right temperature.
- Pat your chops dry; moisture can lead to steaming, not baking.
- Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Letting them rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute, making for a tender bite.
These simple tips will help you achieve perfectly juicy and flavorful pork chops every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes. You will have some delicious, juicy pork chops on your table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is great for baking the pork chops evenly while keeping them juicy.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry using paper towels. This step is important as it helps remove any extra moisture and allows for better searing and seasoning adherence.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. This mix will give the pork chops amazing flavor!
4. Season the Pork Chops:
Drizzle olive oil over both sides of each pork chop. Then, take the seasoning mix and sprinkle it evenly over both sides of the chops. Make sure to press gently so the seasoning sticks nicely to the meat.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the seasoned pork chops on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe skillet, making sure they’re in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly.
6. Bake the Pork Chops:
Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You can use a meat thermometer to check that they have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Optional Broiling for Crispiness:
If you’d like a crispy, browned exterior, switch your oven to broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just be sure to keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!
8. Let Them Rest:
Once the pork chops are done, take them out of the oven and allow them to rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve your delicious pork chops with lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing a bit of lemon juice adds a lovely, bright flavor!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful oven-baked pork chops with minimal fuss!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used, but remember to reduce the baking time slightly, as they tend to cook faster—about 15-20 minutes should be sufficient. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use canola oil, vegetable oil, or even melted butter. Each will add a slightly different flavor but will still help your seasoning stick and keep the meat juicy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating in the microwave to help retain moisture.
Can I Double This Recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe! Just ensure that your baking sheet has enough space for the chops to cook evenly. You might need to bake in batches or make sure to leave space between them for air to circulate properly.