These juicy oven-baked pork chops are packed with flavor and super easy to make. Just season them, pop them in the oven, and relax while they cook to perfection!
I love how simple they are—great for a busy night! Serve with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a delicious meal the whole family will enjoy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for retaining moisture during cooking. If you only have boneless chops, they will work too, just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely richness. If you need a substitute, try vegetable oil or avocado oil. Both have high smoke points and work well for roasting.
Seasonings: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika create a wonderful flavor profile. If you’re out of smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or even chili powder for a bit of heat.
Chicken Broth: This keeps the chops moist while baking. If you’re vegetarian, you can use vegetable broth or water with a bit of soy sauce for added flavor.
How Can I Make Sure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
To keep your pork chops juicy, focus on a few key techniques:
- Pat Dry: Drying the pork chops helps them get a nice sear and prevents steaming, which makes them tender.
- Temperature: Bake the chops at 400°F. This high heat helps to cook them quickly without drying them out.
- Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re cooked through but still juicy.
- Rest: Allow the chops to sit for 5 minutes after baking. This lets the juices redistribute for a tastier bite.
How to Make 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 onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need roughly 35 minutes of focused cooking time before you can dig into these juicy pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready to cook your pork chops quickly. While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup later!
2. Dry the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps them sear nicely and keeps them juicy when you bake them.
3. Add Olive Oil:
Rub both sides of each pork chop with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but also helps the seasoning stick.
4. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and if using, the dried thyme. This blend of spices will give your pork chops a delicious flavor!
5. Season the Chops:
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the pork chops. Press down gently to make sure it sticks well to the meat.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the seasoned pork chops on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there’s space between them for even cooking!
7. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth around the pork chops, not over them. This helps keep the meat moist while baking.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know the pork chops are ready when the internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for the best results!
9. Rest the Chops:
Once done, take the chops out of the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle, making your pork chops even tastier.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your juicy pork chops with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them warm and enjoy this delightful dish!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your juicy, flavorful oven-baked pork chops!
FAQ for Juicy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just be mindful that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so check their internal temperature a few minutes earlier, aiming for 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No problem! You can substitute chicken broth with water or vegetable broth. If using water, add a splash of soy sauce to enhance the flavor.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Yes! Marinating the pork chops for several hours or overnight can add even more flavor. Use the seasoning mixture as a marinade mixed with the olive oil and a little additional vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring they don’t dry out. You can add a little water or broth to keep them moist while reheating.
