These juicy oven-baked pork chops are super easy and taste amazing! Simply season the chops, pop them in the oven, and enjoy the mouthwatering smell filling your kitchen.
I always serve these with some veggies on the side. The best part? They stay tender and flavorful every time. Who knew pork could be this simple and delicious? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If they’re not available, boneless chops work too. Just watch the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for searing, but you can use melted butter or avocado oil if you prefer a different flavor. Canola oil also works in a pinch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a lovely aroma, but if you’re out, garlic powder can be used—about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove. Just sprinkle it in with the other seasonings.
Seasoning: Dried oregano brings a nice earthiness. You could swap this for dried thyme, rosemary, or even a pre-mixed Italian seasoning for ease.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Golden Brown Crust?
Getting a beautiful crust on your pork chops starts with proper drying and searing. Here’s how to ensure success:
- Make sure the pork chops are thoroughly dried with paper towels. Moisture can prevent them from browning properly.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. Add a small amount of oil and let it shimmer before placing the chops in.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Giving each chop enough space lets them sear nicely without steaming.
Let the first side cook untouched for a few minutes before flipping. This will really help form that delicious crust!
Juicy Oven Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 8-12 minutes to cook in the oven. Allow for a few minutes of resting time after cooking, making this a quick and flavorful dinner option ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when the pork chops are ready to go in. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This is key for getting a good brown crust! Then, rub both sides of each chop with olive oil, sprinkling salt, pepper, oregano, and minced garlic evenly over them. Make sure they’re well coated!
3. Sear the Chops:
Get your oven-safe skillet hot over medium-high heat. Once it’s ready, place the pork chops in the skillet and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden brown color. This step really locks in the flavors.
4. Add Lemon and Bake:
While the chops are still in the skillet, arrange the lemon wedges around them for added flavor. Then, transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 8-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This will ensure your chops are juicy and tender!
5. Rest and Garnish:
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven (it will be hot!) and let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices. Before serving, garnish with fresh dill or parsley and serve with the baked lemon wedges. Enjoy!
Enjoy your juicy oven baked pork chops with your favorite sides!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just remember that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so start checking their internal temperature a few minutes earlier.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
The key to juicy pork chops is not overcooking them! Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Also, allowing them to rest for about 5 minutes after baking helps keep the juices inside.
What Should I Serve with Pork Chops?
Pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. The baked lemon wedges add a delightful citrus flavor that complements the meat!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can add a splash of broth to help keep them moist while reheating!
