Description

This Juicy Baked Pork Chops recipe features bone-in pork chops seasoned with a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper, then baked to perfection in the oven to lock in moisture and flavor. Optional honey or maple syrup adds a subtle touch of sweetness that balances the savory spices, resulting in tender and flavorful pork chops ideal for a hearty family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

4 bone-in pork chops (1 inch thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Marinate Your Pork Chops (Optional): For a deeper flavor, prepare the marinade by combining olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
Coat the Pork Chops: Rub the marinade evenly over the pork chops, ensuring thorough coverage on all sides.
Let it Rest: Cover the marinated pork chops and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Select a Dish: Choose an oven-safe baking dish that comfortably fits all the pork chops without overcrowding.
Grease the Dish: Lightly grease the bottom of the baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking during baking.
Place Pork Chops in Dish: Arrange the marinated pork chops in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Bake: Preheat your oven and bake the pork chops for 25 to 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), checking with a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Notes

If using honey or maple syrup, mix it into the marinade for a subtle sweetness that balances the savory spices.
Bone-in pork chops retain more moisture and flavor during baking compared to boneless.
Rest cooked pork chops for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Adjust seasoning to your preference, especially salt and pepper.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork chops are cooked safely without drying out.