Baked pork chops – recipesshubb

Juicy Oven-Baked Pork Chops (Easy & Flavorful)

Baked pork chops are a classic comfort food that deserve a place in every home cook’s recipe collection. When prepared correctly, pork chops come out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor—never dry or bland. This easy baked pork chop recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and a reliable oven method to deliver consistently delicious results every time.

Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or planning a cozy family meal, these oven-baked pork chops are satisfying, versatile, and pair beautifully with vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad. Best of all, everything comes together in under an hour with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy and tender: Baking at the right temperature keeps the pork moist
Simple ingredients: No complicated spices or marinades required
Beginner-friendly: Easy steps with foolproof tips
Versatile: Works with bone-in or boneless pork chops
Great for meal prep: Leftovers reheat well for lunch or dinner

Ingredients

For 4 servings:

4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1 to 1½ inches thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

Optional additions:

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon brown sugar for a hint of sweetness

Equipment Needed

Baking dish or rimmed baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Meat thermometer (highly recommended)
Small bowl for seasoning

How to Make Baked Pork Chops

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking pork chops evenly while sealing in moisture.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick and encourages better browning in the oven.

Place the pork chops in a baking dish lightly coated with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 3: Season Generously

In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Rub both sides of each pork chop with olive oil, then coat evenly with the seasoning mix. If using Dijon mustard or brown sugar, rub it on before adding the dry spices.

Step 4: Add Moisture

Pour the chicken broth into the baking dish around the pork chops (not directly on top). This creates steam while baking and helps prevent the meat from drying out.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 18–22 minutes, depending on thickness. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5–10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy pork.

Tips for Perfect Baked Pork Chops

Choose thicker chops: Thin pork chops cook too quickly and can dry out.
Use a thermometer: This is the best way to avoid overcooking.
Don’t skip resting: Cutting too soon releases juices.
Bone-in = more flavor: Bone-in chops tend to stay juicier.
Avoid overbaking: Pork continues cooking slightly after leaving the oven.

Flavor Variations

Herb-Crusted: Add rosemary and parsley to the seasoning blend
Smoky BBQ: Swap paprika for smoked paprika and brush with BBQ sauce at the end
Garlic Butter: Add a small pat of butter on each chop before baking uncovered
Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder

What to Serve with Baked Pork Chops

These pork chops pair well with many sides, including:

Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
Steamed green beans or broccoli
Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts
Rice, quinoa, or couscous
Fresh garden salad

Storage and Reheating

To store:
Let pork chops cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat:
Warm in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil, until heated through. Add a splash of broth to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes. Boneless pork chops cook slightly faster, so begin checking for doneness around 15–18 minutes.

Why are my pork chops dry?
Overcooking is the most common reason. Use a thermometer and remove them at 145°F.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Season the pork chops and refrigerate them (covered) for up to 12 hours before baking.

Final Thoughts

These baked pork chops are proof that a simple recipe can still deliver incredible flavor. With the right temperature, seasoning, and timing, you’ll get juicy, tender pork chops every time—no frying required. This dependable recipe is perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or anyone looking to master a classic dish with confidence.