These juicy oven-baked pork chops are your new go-to for an easy, satisfying dinner. Perfectly seasoned with a flavorful spice rub and baked to golden perfection, this recipe delivers tender, flavorful pork chops in just 30 minutes. Whether you use boneless or bone-in, these chops are a weeknight win!
Why You’ll Love These Baked Pork Chops
- Quick & Easy: Just 5 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking.
- Flavorful Rub: A savory mix of pantry spices with a touch of brown sugar for caramelization.
- Perfectly Juicy: With the right cooking time and temperature, these pork chops are never dry.
- Healthy & Budget-Friendly: Lean protein, gluten-free, and great for any grocery budget.
Ingredients
For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
- Make the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Prep the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Rub each with olive oil, then season generously on both sides with the spice mix.
- Bake: Place the pork chops on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 140ºF using a meat thermometer.
- Rest: Remove from oven and tent loosely with foil. Let rest 5-10 minutes. During this time, the internal temperature will rise to a perfect 145ºF.
- Serve: Pair with roasted potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Chef’s Tips for Success
- Choose Thick Chops: At least 1 inch thick for best results.
- Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer for precision.
- Resting is Key: Don’t skip the 5-10 minutes of rest after baking.
- Bone-In vs. Boneless: Either works! Bone-in may require a few extra minutes.
Common Questions
- Should I cover pork chops when baking? No, leave them uncovered for a golden crust.
- Can I make this ahead? Yes! Season the pork the night before and refrigerate.
- How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- How do I reheat? Reheat at 300ºF with a splash of broth and foil cover, or in the microwave at 60% power.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Butter Pasta
- Roasted Cauliflower or Green Beans
- German Potato Salad
- Strawberry Spinach Salad
Make It Your Way
- Keto/Whole30: Omit the sugar or replace with onion powder.
- Add Veggies: Toss in asparagus, broccoli, or sweet potatoes for a one-pan meal.
- Spice It Up: Add chili powder or cumin for extra kick.
These easy oven-baked pork chops prove that a quick weeknight meal can still be flavorful, juicy, and absolutely crave-worthy. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time—and everyone asking for seconds!