These juicy oven-baked pork chops are super easy to make and packed with flavor. Just season them, pop them in the oven, and wait while your kitchen fills with that mouthwatering aroma!
Honestly, I love how tender and delicious they turn out. Serve them with some veggies or mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a simple meal that feels special. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops will work too, but they may cook faster. You might need to reduce the cooking time by a few minutes.
Olive Oil: This is great for searing and adds flavor, but you could swap it with vegetable oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter if you prefer that taste.
Spices: The garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder create a nice flavor balance. If you’re out of paprika, smoked paprika gives a deeper flavor. For garlic lovers, using fresh minced garlic is a tasty alternative!
Parsley: This is just for garnish, so if you don’t have it, feel free to skip it or use another herb like thyme or cilantro for a different twist.
How Do You Achieve a Perfect Sear?
Searing your pork chops is important for locking in moisture and flavor. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your skillet is really hot before adding the pork chops. This helps to create a crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—this can lower the temperature and prevent a good sear. If your pan is small, cook them in batches.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels before seasoning, as moisture can prevent them from browning properly.
Perfectly seared pork chops have a mouthwatering crust that makes them even more delicious!
Juicy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation, plus about 15-20 minutes of cooking time. Letting the pork chops rest for a few minutes afterward ensures they stay juicy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, turn on your oven and set it to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when your pork chops are ready to go in!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, gently pat the pork chops dry. This step is important—it helps them get a beautiful golden sear when cooking. The less moisture, the better the crust!
3. Mix the Spices:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. This combination will give your pork chops an amazing flavor boost!
4. Season the Pork Chops:
Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the pork chops to ensure they’re evenly coated. Then, sprinkle your spice mixture generously onto the chops. Make sure every side is well-seasoned for the best taste!
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Grab a large, oven-safe skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step locks in the juices!
6. Bake in the Oven:
After searing, transfer the skillet with the chops to the preheated oven. Bake them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). A meat thermometer is handy for this!
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once the pork chops are out of the oven, let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them extra juicy and tender!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your delicious pork chops with your favorite sides and enjoy every bite!
Happy cooking! Your juicy oven-baked pork chops are ready to impress!
FAQ for Juicy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work! Just keep in mind that they might cook faster, so check their internal temperature a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests—around 8-12 minutes in the oven should suffice.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use other cooking oils like vegetable oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but they all work great for searing and baking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave on medium power for a few minutes.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops overnight in your favorite marinade will enhance their flavor even more. Just make sure to pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to achieve that lovely sear!
