– **Title**: Best Baked Pork Chops
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pork broth)
– 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Rub both sides of each chop with olive oil, then coat with the spice mixture evenly.
4. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a bit more olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
5. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the pork chops, ensuring the liquid doesn’t wash off the seasoning.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your choice of sides. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for extra flavor and moisture. If you can’t find bone-in, you can use boneless pork chops, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for searing because it adds flavor and helps create a nice crust. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil works well, too!
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme add rich flavor. If you’re short on smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine, but don’t forget to add a pinch of cayenne for heat. Fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano can also be substituted for dried thyme.
Chicken Broth: It’s optional but recommended for adding moisture. If you prefer, use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or even water if you have neither on hand.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Searing Pork Chops?
Searing pork chops is key to locking in moisture and enhancing flavor. Follow these steps for a great sear:
- Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chops. This helps to create a good crust.
- Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning. Moisture will prevent browning.
- Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side without moving them around. This will help with that beautiful, brown crust.
After searing, if you want even juicier chops, consider adding chicken broth before baking. It helps to steam the pork chops a bit, keeping them moist!
Best Baked Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasoning Mixture:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Moisture (Optional):
- 1 cup chicken broth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes to enjoy delicious baked pork chops that are tender and flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure your pork chops bake evenly and become juicy.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Lay them on a cutting board while you prepare the seasoning.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir them together so they’re well mixed.
4. Season the Chops:
Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the pork chops. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture over them, making sure to coat both sides evenly for maximum flavor.
5. Sear the Pork Chops:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the pork chops and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned. This will help lock in the juices!
6. Add Chicken Broth (If Desired):
If you want extra moisture, carefully pour the chicken broth around the pork chops in the skillet. This will keep them juicy while they bake.
7. Bake the Pork Chops:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Check that the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
8. Let Them Rest:
When they’re done baking, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute and keep them tasty!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top of the pork chops for a pop of color. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that boneless chops may cook faster, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can work in a pinch. For extra flavor, you might add a splash of apple juice or a bit of soy sauce to the water!
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm them gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying them out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can nestle sliced vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or green beans around the pork chops in the skillet before baking. Just ensure they are cut to similar sizes for even cooking!
