These baked pork chops are juicy, tender, and full of flavor! Just a sprinkle of your favorite seasonings and they’re ready to roast in the oven.
They’re so simple to make that even my cat thinks I’m a chef! 🐱 I love serving them with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a tasty meal that feels special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too—just adjust the cooking time slightly since they cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with the searing process. You can swap it with canola or vegetable oil if you prefer. I love a good drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for flavor!
Seasonings: The garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme bring out delicious flavors. If you don’t have smoked paprika, it’s fine to leave it out. For a twist, try Italian seasoning instead of thyme!
Chicken Broth: This keeps the pork chops moist while baking. Veggie broth or even water can work in a pinch. I often add a splash of apple cider for a hint of sweetness.
How Do I Get a Good Sear on My Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops gives them a beautiful crust and locks in the juices. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding the pork chops; this helps create that nice golden brown crust.
- After seasoning the chops, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t crowd the pan; if needed, sear in batches, so each chop gets good contact with the pan.
- Sear for just 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid moving them around too much while they’re cooking.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly seared, delicious baked pork chops every time!
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 onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus another 20-30 minutes for cooking and resting time. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
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.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is super important for getting a great sear on the meat, so don’t skip it!
3. Season the Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Rub this flavorful mixture evenly across both sides of each pork chop. They’re going to taste amazing!
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until they develop a nice golden brown crust.
5. Add Broth and Bake:
Once the chops are seared, pour the chicken broth (or water) into the skillet around the pork chops. This helps keep them moist while baking.
6. Bake in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect pork chops.
7. Rest Before Serving:
When done, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time is key to keeping them juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the pork chops warm, drizzling some of the pan juices over the top. They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious baked pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops if that’s what you have on hand! Just keep in mind that they will cook a bit faster, so check them after about 8-10 minutes in the oven to avoid overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can keep them moist!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can work as a substitute. For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or apple juice for a sweet twist!
Can I Marinade the Pork Chops Before Cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops for a few hours or overnight can enhance their flavor. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices can work wonders. Just be sure to pat them dry before seasoning and searing!
