Baked pork chops are juicy and full of flavor, making them a perfect weeknight dinner! With just a few spices and a bit of oven time, they’ll come out golden and delicious.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and moisture. If unavailable, boneless chops will also work. Just reduce cooking time as they can dry out quicker.
Olive Oil: While I love olive oil for its flavor, any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil can substitute. Just avoid oils with strong flavors that could overpower the spices.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder are classic, but fresh garlic and onions can be used instead if you want a bolder taste. Just watch the cooking times as fresh items tend to cook faster.
Dried Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary are excellent substitutes for dried herbs. Use about three times the amount, as fresh herbs are less concentrated.
Chicken Broth: If you don’t have chicken broth, beef broth or even vegetable broth can work. Water is fine, too, but broth adds more flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Browned Pork Chops?
The browning step is key for flavor. Here’s how to get that beautiful crust:
- Make sure your skillet is really hot before adding the pork chops. This helps develop that nice sear.
- Leave the chops alone for 2-3 minutes on each side. Don’t move them around; let them form a crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. They should be 145°F (63°C) to be perfectly cooked!
Let them rest after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring your chops stay juicy. Enjoy with a simple salad or roasted vegetables!
Baked Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, finely chopped, plus a sprig for garnish
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (optional for baking to keep moist)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to bake in the oven. In total, expect around 30-35 minutes for a delicious pork chop dinner that’s ready to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your pork chops cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. This step is really important as it helps achieve a nice, golden-brown crust when searing.
3. Mix Your Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mix will add tons of flavor to your chops!
4. Season the Chops:
Rub the pork chops with olive oil on both sides. Then, take the spice mixture and evenly coat each chop. Make sure to cover all sides!
5. Sear the Chops:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This creates a delightful crust!
6. Baking Time:
If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, carefully transfer the seared chops to a baking dish. If you’d like, pour in the chicken broth or water to keep the chops moist while baking. This step is optional but highly recommended!
7. Bake in the Oven:
Put the skillet or baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. You are looking for an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.
9. Garnish and Enjoy!
If you’d like, garnish the chops with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a lovely touch. Serve them hot, and enjoy with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
This recipe yields beautifully baked pork chops that are juicy and full of flavor, perfect for a comforting meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can work just as well in this recipe. Just remember to adjust the cooking time since they typically cook faster; aim for about 8-12 minutes in the oven.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Cuts of Pork?
Yes, you can use other cuts like pork loin or tenderloin, but keep in mind that different cuts may have varying cooking times. The key is to cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans to the baking dish. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. Adjust the baking time if needed!