Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner option that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds, you’ve landed in the right spot! Let me introduce you to my absolute favorite way of preparing pork chops – Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops!
What I adore about this recipe is how incredibly simple it is, yet every bite bursts with flavor. You know those days when you want to impress your friends or family but don’t have a ton of time to spend in the kitchen? This is the magic recipe that saves the day, and let me tell you, even my picky eater friends can’t resist these juicy chops. Plus, it reminds me of family dinners from my childhood – my mom always had a knack for making ordinary recipes taste extraordinary, and this one’s just like that!
What’s in Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops?
Let’s break down these ingredients, shall we? Each one plays a delicious role in making these pork chops a hit.
Bone-in pork chops: Choosing bone-in adds so much flavor and helps keep the meat juicy. Aim for about 1-inch thick for the perfect cook.
Olive oil: This is our flavor carrier! It helps the spices stick while keeping the pork moist in the oven.
Garlic powder: Who doesn’t love garlic? It adds a savory punch without the chopping hassle.
Paprika: I use sweet paprika here, but feel free to add smoked paprika if you prefer a touch of smokiness.
Onion powder: Another flavor powerhouse! It enhances the overall taste without the fuss of fresh onions.
Dried thyme: A classic herb that beautifully complements pork. It adds an earthiness that balances the other spices wonderfully.
Salt: Essential! It brings out the flavors in every ingredient.
Black pepper: A MUST for a bit of spice.
Lemon: The juice brightens up the rich flavors of the pork, and it’s just pure magic!
Fresh parsley: Not only does it make your dish look pretty, but it offers a fresh taste that cuts through the richness.
Is Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops Good for You?
Now, let’s chat health! These oven-baked pork chops not only taste fantastic but can also fit nicely into a balanced diet. Here are the highlights:
Pork chops: Excellent source of protein and vitamins like B6 and B12, which are great for energy production and red blood cell formation.
Olive oil: Packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, it’s a heart-healthy choice. Just make sure to use it in moderation.
Spices and herbs: These are low in calories and high in antioxidants! They add tons of flavor without extra fat or sugar.
One thing to keep in mind is that pork chops can sometimes be a bit fatty, depending on the cut. But hey, everything in moderation, right? And this recipe is a great way to keep things flavorful without overdoing it!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe, which serves about 4:
– 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 lemon, juiced (plus additional slices for garnish)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops?
Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps for a fabulous dinner:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels (this helps them get a nice sear!), then rub them with olive oil on both sides.
4. Generously season the pork chops with the spice mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Arrange the seasoned pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a greased baking dish (easy cleanup is the way to go!).
6. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the pork chops so they soak in that zesty goodness.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the pork is beautifully cooked through.
8. Once baked, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for around 5 minutes (this keeps them juicy).
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for the Perfect Chops!
Here’s the fun part! You can totally tweak this recipe to your heart’s content. Try adding some grated Parmesan to the spice mix for a cheesy twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of chili flakes will bring the heat. And let’s not forget what to serve these gems with – think roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or even mashed potatoes!
So, there you have it! These Easy Oven Baked Pork Chops should definitely be on your dinner rotation. Give them a go and let me know how they turn out for you! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts. Happy cooking!
