Pork chops done right can be the unsung heroes of a dinner table—juicy, succulent, and bursting with flavor, especially with a drizzle of garlic butter. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen—pure bliss. Oh, and speaking of kitchens, I recently tried this in my new air fryer, and wow, crispy edges for days!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Determine the thickness of your pork chops to calculate the appropriate baking time.
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and oregano to create a spice rub for the pork chops.
- Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the pork chops and coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
- Arrange the pork chops snugly in a baking dish and drizzle with additional olive oil.
- Bake the pork chops uncovered based on their thickness: 7 minutes per ½ inch for boneless chops, or 8 minutes per ½ inch for bone-in chops, until they reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit internally.
- After removing the pork chops from the oven, let them rest in the pan for 5 minutes before serving to ensure juiciness.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1100kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 116g | Fat: 64g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 36g | Trans Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 360mg | Sodium: 2588mg | Potassium: 2092mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 312IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 4mg
FAQ
- How long should I bake pork chops at 400°F?
- For boneless pork chops, bake them for 7 minutes per ½ inch of thickness. If you’re using bone-in pork chops, increase the time to 8 minutes per ½ inch. Always ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Can I use boneless or bone-in pork chops for this recipe?
- Yes, this recipe works wonderfully with both boneless and bone-in pork chops. Choose whichever you prefer, but remember to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the type you choose.
- What spices are best for seasoning pork chops?
- A simple yet flavorful spice rub includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano (or Italian seasoning), salt, and black pepper. This blend is versatile and can be used on both pork and chicken.
- How should I store and reheat leftover pork chops?
- Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, slice them thin and warm them in a pan over medium heat or use a microwave.
- What should I serve with baked pork chops?
- Pair your pork chops with a big salad and oven-roasted potatoes. You can even roast the potatoes simultaneously with the pork chops for a complete and easy meal.
Tips
- Choose the Right Baking Dish: Opt for a baking dish that just fits the pork chops snugly. This helps retain their juices, preventing them from drying out during cooking.
- Use an Instant-Read Thermometer: To ensure your pork chops are perfectly cooked and juicy, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let Them Rest: After baking, allow the pork chops to rest for about 5 minutes in the pan. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Customize the Spice Mix: Feel free to adjust the spice blend to your taste or use a favorite seasoning mix you have on hand to give the pork chops a personal twist.
Equipment
- Instant-read meat thermometer – Useful for checking the internal temperature of the pork chops to ensure they are cooked properly.
- Baking dish or ovenproof frying pan – A dish that is just the right size for the pork chops to prevent juices from evaporating. If someone doesn’t have a suitable baking dish, they might consider a cast-iron pan or similar ovenproof option.
- Spice jars or containers – For mixing and storing the spice rub if someone doesn’t already have containers for spices.
- Small mixing bowl – For mixing the spices together.
