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Easy Baked Pork Chops – A Quick and Flavorful Dinner

Baked pork chops are one of the easiest and most delicious meals you can make on a busy night. With a simple spice rub and quick oven baking, these pork chops come out juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. The best part is that they pair well with just about any side dish, making them a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

By using a blend of brown sugar, paprika, and aromatic seasonings, this recipe enhances the natural flavor of the pork without overpowering it. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, these baked pork chops are guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Why This Recipe Works

Quick and easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.

Perfectly seasoned – A simple spice rub enhances the natural taste of the pork.

Juicy and tender – Cooking at a high temperature locks in moisture.

Versatile – Works well with a variety of side dishes for a complete meal.

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

4 boneless pork chops (at least 1 inch thick)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1½ tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons paprika (sweet or smoked)
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops

Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a nice crust when baked.

Rub each chop with olive oil, coating all sides evenly. Place the pork chops on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Season the Pork Chops

Rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the pork chops, pressing it gently to adhere.

Step 5: Bake

Place the pork chops in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

For thinner pork chops, start checking at 10 to 12 minutes.

For bone-in pork chops, allow a few extra minutes of cooking time.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.

Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Recipe Variations

Make it spicy – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

Use different herbs – Swap thyme for rosemary or Italian seasoning for a unique flavor.

Try a marinade – Let the pork chops sit in a simple olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice marinade before seasoning.

Grill instead – Use the same seasoning and cook on a preheated grill over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes per side.

Final Thoughts

These easy baked pork chops are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick dinner. With a simple spice rub and a short cooking time, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.

Try them for your next meal and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked dinner in just 20 minutes!

Short Version