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The Ultimate Foolproof Juicy Baked Pork Chops

Close-up of a thick, juicy baked pork chop showing a rich, dark spice crust and moist interior.
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This recipe delivers incredibly tender and juicy baked pork chops with a simple, flavorful rub. It is a quick and easy method perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for light caramelization)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, and brown sugar (if using). Mix the spices well.
  3. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step helps the seasoning adhere and promotes better texture.
  4. Brush both sides of each pork chop lightly with olive oil.
  5. Generously coat all sides of the pork chops with the prepared spice rub, pressing the mixture gently onto the meat.
  6. Place the seasoned pork chops on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
  7. Bake for 18 to 25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chops. For 1-inch thick chops, start checking around 18 minutes.
  8. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Remove the pork chops from the oven when they reach 140°F (60°C).
  9. Let the pork chops rest on a cutting board, loosely tented with foil, for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. The temperature will rise to a safe 145°F (63°C) while resting, which keeps them juicy.

Notes

  • For the juiciest results, use pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick. Thicker chops are less likely to dry out.
  • If you prefer a Parmesan crusted pork chop, mix 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese with the dry rub ingredients before coating the chops.
  • Resting the meat is crucial; do not skip this step if you want tender pork chops.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delicerecipe.com/easy-baked-pork-chops-juicy-recipe/