Description
This Easy Baked Pork Chops recipe offers a delicious and straightforward way to prepare tender and flavorful pork chops using a simple dry rub and butter. Baked to perfection in the oven, these pork chops are juicy, aromatic, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pork Chops
- 4 pork chops (boneless or bone-in)
Spice Rub
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
Other
- 1/4 cup butter (cut into pats)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and position the oven rack in the middle to ensure even cooking of the pork chops.
- Prepare Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing thoroughly to create an even spice blend.
- Coat Pork Chops: Place the pork chops in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Generously coat each pork chop all over with the prepared spice rub. Then, evenly distribute the butter pats on top of the pork chops for added moisture and flavor during baking.
- Bake the Pork Chops: Bake the pork chops uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-23 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). For thinner pork chops (less than 3/4″ thick), check for doneness around 18 minutes; thicker chops over 1″ may require more than 25 minutes. Keep in mind variations in oven temperature and whether the pork chops are bone-in, which may increase cooking time.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat juicy. Serve the pork chops with the pan juices spooned over the top for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to accurately check for doneness to avoid overcooking and drying out the pork chops.
- Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier but may require a slightly longer baking time compared to boneless ones.
- Adjust seasoning amounts to your preference, especially the salt and chili powder for heat.
- Letting the pork chops rest after baking helps retain their juices and enhances the overall tenderness.
- Serve with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.