Baked pork chops provide a high-protein, satisfying and delicious entrée. Pork chops are a relatively lean source of protein that's packed with energizing B vitamins and anemia-fighting iron. Below, discover how to cook pork chops to perfection in your oven — in three scrumptious ways.
Follow these tips to ensure your pork chops come out tender every time:
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- Choose chops that are around one inch in thickness. Chops that are too thin will dry out faster in the oven.
- Sear your pork chops first on the stovetop and then bake them in the oven. If you're not searing first, add the searing time to the total cooking time.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to make sure the chops reach a cooking temperature of 145 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Always let your chops rest after cooking. Cutting into them too soon will drain the juices and leave you with dry pork.
Things You'll Need
Oven-safe or cast iron skillet
Cutting board
Canola oil
Nonserrated kitchen knife
Seasonings
Instant-read meat thermometer
Aluminum foil
How to Cook Boneless Pork Chops in the Oven
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place four, one-inch-thick pork chops on a cutting board and blot with a paper towel. Trim any excess fat from the pork chops. In a small bowl, mix a half teaspoon of salt, a quarter teaspoon of pepper and a quarter teaspoon of dried oregano. Sprinkle the seasoning on both sides of the pork chops.
Step 2: Sear the Pork Chops
Heat an oven-safe skillet or cast iron skillet over medium heat and add two tablespoons of canola oil. Place the pork chops in the oil and sear each side for three minutes.
Step 3: Bake in the Oven
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches between 145 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit, as recommended by the USDA.
When your pork chops reach the minimum internal temperature, remove from the oven and place a piece of foil over the top. Let the chops rest for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute around the meat.
Pork Chop Recipe Ideas
German-Style Pork Chops
Prepare and bake your pork chops according to the instructions above. When you remove the pork chops from the oven, transfer them to a plate and cover to keep them warm. In the hot skillet, add one thinly sliced apple and one thinly sliced onion — about one cup of each. Add two tablespoons of apple juice. Turn heat to medium and sauté until the onions and apples are soft, about five to seven minutes. Serve on top of the pork chops.
Asian-Style Pork Chops
Place the boneless pork chops in a gallon-sized sealable bag. Add a quarter cup of soy sauce, two tablespoons honey, one tablespoon sesame oil, one teaspoon of grated fresh garlic and half a teaspoon of garlic powder. Evenly coat the pork chops and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Bake your boneless pork chops according to the instructions above. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Italian-Spice Seasoned Pork Chops
Place the boneless pork chops in a gallon-sized sealable bag. Add two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, two tablespoons fresh lemon juice, one teaspoon dried oregano, half a teaspoon of kosher salt, a quarter teaspoon of black pepper, a quarter teaspoon of garlic salt and a quarter teaspoon of dried thyme. Evenly coat the pork chops and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Bake your boneless pork chops according to the instructions above. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Read more: The Best Ways to Bake Thin Pork Chops