These oven-baked pork chops are juicy, tender, and super easy to make! Just season them and pop them in the oven for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
I like to serve mine with some fluffy mashed potatoes and veggies on the side. It’s a hit at dinner, and I barely have to clean up! Who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you only have boneless chops, that’s fine too! Just reduce the baking time slightly as they cook faster.
Olive Oil: A must for seasoning and searing! You can substitute with other oils like canola or avocado oil if preferred.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the flavors. Try using smoked salt or seasoning blends for a twist! Just watch the amount of salt to avoid over-seasoning.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy punch. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, yellow mustard works well too. You can even skip it for a simple taste.
Chicken Broth or White Wine: These keep the pork chops moist. Vegetable broth can be a good substitute for a lighter option, or you can omit it entirely and use water, just be sure to watch the cooking time.
How Do I Perfectly Sear Pork Chops?
Searing your pork chops is important for building flavor and creating a great crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding the oil.
- Add olive oil and let it heat up until it shimmers. This prevents sticking.
- Place the pork chops in the skillet without overcrowding. Give them space to sear.
- Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Don’t move them around too much!
- If they’re sticking, it might be because they need more time. Let them be until they release easily.
Searing locks in juices and gives a lovely crust that’ll make your pork chops irresistible!
Oven-Baked Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 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 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine (optional, for moisture)
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme (for garnish and flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total – 10 minutes for prep and about 15-20 minutes for baking. After baking, you’ll let the pork chops rest for around 5 minutes before serving. It’s a quick and delicious dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for the pork chops after you sear them.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. This helps them brown nicely in the skillet. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will be your seasoning blend.
3. Season the Chops:
Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the pork chops. Make sure they’re evenly coated. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture on both sides so each chop is well-seasoned.
4. Sear the Pork Chops:
In an oven-safe skillet (like a cast iron or Dutch oven), heat it over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the pork chops in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they have a beautiful golden brown color.
5. Add Flavor:
On the top side of each chop, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard. This adds a nice tangy flavor! Next, pour the chicken broth or white wine into the skillet; this helps keep the meat juicy.
6. Bake the Chops:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C). A meat thermometer is handy for this!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial to keep them juicy. Sprinkle fresh thyme over the top just before serving for added flavor and a nice touch!
Enjoy these flavorful, juicy pork chops with your favorite side dishes, like mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. They’re perfect for a family dinner!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just keep in mind they cook faster, so reduce the baking time by a few minutes. Check for doneness at around 8-10 minutes.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
Yes, marinating is a great way to add more flavor! You can marinate the pork chops in your favorite marinade for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or a skillet on low heat to avoid drying them out.
What Can I Serve with Oven-Baked Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
