Baked Pork Chops Recipe Juiciest Ever for Family Meals

Weeknight dinners suddenly become magical when baked pork chops emerge from your kitchen with golden, crispy edges.

Juicy meat promises a satisfying meal that doesn’t require complicated techniques.

Salt and herbs can elevate these humble protein cuts into something spectacular.

Home cooks appreciate simple approaches that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Lean cuts benefit from strategic seasoning and careful cooking temperatures.

Every bite promises succulence without overwhelming preparation time.

Let’s unlock the secrets to perfectly tender and flavorful pork chops that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Baked Pork Chops That Stay Juicy

• Simple spice blend creates restaurant-quality taste without complicated techniques, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Pairs beautifully with multiple sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or salad, making it ideal for busy families seeking a satisfying meal.
• Lean pork chops deliver high-quality protein, cook quickly, and can be prepared with minimal added fat, supporting balanced nutrition goals.

Ingredients for Flavorful Baked Pork Chops

• Pork Chops: Tender meat cuts that serve as the star of the dish, best when fresh and of good quality, bone-in or boneless options work well.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Thyme, Salt, Black Pepper: Aromatic spices that create a flavorful and well-balanced coating for the pork chops, provides depth and complexity to the meat.

• Olive Oil: Helps create a crispy exterior and allows seasonings to adhere to the pork chops, adds richness and helps prevent sticking.
• Parsley: Optional fresh herb for garnishing, adds a bright and fresh visual appeal to the finished dish.

How to Bake Pork Chops the Right Way

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab a baking sheet and either line it with aluminum foil or give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat

Take your pork chops and gently pat them dry using paper towels. This helps create a perfect sear and crispy exterior.

Step 3: Create Flavor Magic

• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 4: Season the Chops

Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the pork chops, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Then generously sprinkle the spice mixture, pressing it gently into the meat.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the seasoned pork chops onto the prepared baking sheet. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Step 6: Check the Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 145 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your chops are cooked safely and remain juicy.

Step 7: Optional Golden Finish

For an extra appetizing look, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.

Step 9: Garnish and Enjoy

Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot and savor your delicious creation!

Best Tips for Tender Baked Pork Chops

• Seal in Moisture: Pat pork chops completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden exterior and prevent steaming.
• Customize Seasoning: Experiment with different herb and spice combinations like rosemary, cumin, or chili powder for unique flavor profiles.
• Check Temperature Accurately: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked pork without overcooking, hitting the 145F sweet spot.
• Rest and Relax: Allow pork chops to rest for 5 minutes after baking, helping juices redistribute for maximum tenderness and juiciness.
• Broil for Bonus Crunch: Optional quick broiling at the end creates a delightful golden-brown crust that adds texture and visual appeal.

How to Reheat and Store Baked Pork Chops

• Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, they'll stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Warm pork chops in a preheated 350F oven for 10-15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
• Place pork chops on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, checking temperature to avoid overcooking.
• Wrap cooled pork chops tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What Goes Well with Baked Pork Chops

• Creamy, buttery potatoes complement the savory seasoned pork chops, creating a rich and satisfying flavor combination.
• Tangy, fresh coleslaw with thinly sliced apples cuts through the meat's richness, adding a bright, crunchy contrast to the dish.
• These medium-bodied white and red wines enhance the pork's herbs and spices, balancing the meal's robust flavors with their smooth, elegant profiles.
• Lightly seasoned green vegetables provide a nutritious and elegant side that adds color and freshness to the hearty pork chops.

Ideas to Change Up Baked Pork Chops

• Herb-Crusted Option: Replace dried herbs with fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage for a more vibrant flavor profile.
• Low-Sodium Version: Swap salt with sodium-free herb blend and use Mrs. Dash seasoning to reduce sodium intake while maintaining great taste.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all spices are certified gluten-free and use alternative olive oil spray for coating pork chops.
• Keto-Friendly Approach: Add grated parmesan cheese to the seasoning mix for extra fat content and crispy texture, aligning with ketogenic dietary needs.

FAQs About Making Baked Pork Chops

• How do I know when the pork chops are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. When it reaches 145F (63C), the pork chops are safe to eat and will remain juicy.

• Can I use bone-in or boneless pork chops for this recipe?

Both bone-in and boneless pork chops work great. Just adjust cooking time slightly for thicker cuts, ensuring they reach the correct internal temperature.

• What if I don't have all the specific spices in the seasoning mix?

You can substitute similar herbs and spices you have on hand. Dried herbs like rosemary or Italian seasoning can work well as alternatives to thyme.

• Is it necessary to let the pork chops rest after cooking?

Yes, resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful. Always let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven.

Baked Pork Chops Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Succulent Baked Pork Chops deliver a mouthwatering meal that brings comfort to dinner tables across North America. Juicy meat seasoned with herbs creates an irresistible main course you’ll savor with every delicious bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick/2.54 centimeters thick)

Herbs and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Oil and Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare your oven environment by adjusting the rack to the middle position and heating to 400F (200C), then create a protective layer on your baking surface with aluminum foil or a light coating of cooking spray.
2. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the pork chops, removing any excess moisture to ensure optimal seasoning adherence and crispy exterior.
3. Craft a flavor-packed spice blend by combining garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small mixing bowl.
4. Massage each pork chop with olive oil, creating a light lubricating surface that will help the spice mixture cling evenly to the meat.
5. Generously distribute the prepared seasoning mixture across both sides of the pork chops, pressing gently to help the spices penetrate the surface.
6. Carefully arrange the seasoned pork chops on the prepared baking surface, ensuring they are not overcrowded to promote even cooking.
7. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, monitoring the internal temperature until it reaches a safe 145F (63C).
8. For an enhanced golden-brown finish, activate the broiler and allow the pork chops to caramelize for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
9. Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
10. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pork chops for a vibrant, herbaceous garnish before serving.

Notes

• Selecting bone-in pork chops ensures juicier and more flavorful meat due to additional marbling and connective tissues.
• Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to promote even cooking and achieve a crispy exterior with consistent browning.
• Use a digital meat thermometer for precise temperature checking, preventing overcooking and maintaining tender, succulent meat.
• Transform this recipe into a gluten-free and low-carb option by replacing traditional seasonings with herbs like rosemary, sage, and oregano for added complexity.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg