Spending time cooking and preparing meals during the week can be a challenge. We’re always on the hunt for quick and easy family dinner recipes that let us get a good dinner on the table fast so we can enjoy the rest of the evening. Oven recipes are a lifesaver and make such delicious dishes in a short amount of time.
One of our easy weeknight favorites are oven-baked bone-in pork chops. All they need is a little pork chop seasoning, a side or two, and you’ve got a yummy, filling meal for the entire family.
Oven-Baked Bone-In Pork Chops Ingredients
- Bone-in pork loin chops (about 7 ounces each)
- Paprika
- Salt
- Onion powder
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley, optional
Directions
Step 1: Mix spices and season the pork
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a small bowl, combine paprika, salt, pepper and onion powder together. Rub the spice mix over both sides of the pork chops.
Step 2: Brown the pork chops
In a large cast-iron or other ovenproof skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Be sure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the pork so you can get a wonderful golden color.
Brown the pork chops on both sides.
Step 3: Bake the pork chops
Transfer the pork chops to the oven and bake, uncovered, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat reads 145º, about 20 to 25 minutes.
Step 4: Let stand and serve
Let the pork chops stand for 5 minutes before serving; you can tent the pork with foil to keep warm. This will make the pork even more tender and juicy when you slice into it. If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Oven-Baked Bone-In Pork Chops Variations
We love how easily pork chops work with other flavors. You can make them sweet, savory, salty or spicy! Pork chops work well with dry seasonings as a rub, or with thicker sauces that coat the outside of the meat.
There are pork chop recipes for every taste. Try using garlic and lemon for a summery citrus flavor, or chipotle peppers and fire-roasted tomatoes for pork chops with a kick. Or, learn how to make extra savory bacon-wrapped pork chops and Vietnamese pork chops.
Oven-Baked Bone-In Pork Chops Tips
Can you use other kinds of pork chops?
Bone-in pork chops are typically the most juicy and flavorful because of the bone and surrounding fat tissue on the meat. However, boneless pork chops are a great less-fatty option that can be found in grocery stores everywhere.
Boneless pork chops cook faster due to less fat being present, so be careful not to overcook them. Frozen pork chops can also be used in this oven-baked recipe. Be sure to thaw them properly to avoid the risk of bacterial infection.
How can you tell when the pork chops are done?
Meat thermometers are a cook’s best friend. For pork chops and any thicker cut of meat, a thermometer is the most accurate way to read the internal temperature of the meat.
Pork chops have a safe internal temperature of 145º, so pork chops cannot be eaten until that temp is hit. And don’t be alarmed if your pork chop is a little pink after your thermometer reaches 145°—this is actually a good thing! The size of the pork chop will affect how long it takes to heat up, so be sure to keep checking. For larger cuts, add more cooking time to hit the correct internal temperature.
How do you serve oven-baked bone-in pork chops?
Pork chop recipes are a versatile protein and can be served with tons of fresh veggies and starches. Try roasted Brussels sprouts and roasted potatoes or sheet pan-roasted vegetables with mashed potatoes and gravy. And, of course, you can always stick with a classic: homemade applesauce.
