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The Ultimate Juicy Baked Pork Chops with Simple Spice Rub

Close-up of thick, juicy baked pork chops showing a pink center and dark seasoned crust.
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Make tender, juicy baked pork chops every time using a simple, flavorful spice rub. This easy oven-baked pork chops recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Pat the pork chops completely dry using paper towels. This step helps the spice rub adhere and promotes better searing/browning.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper to create your spice rub.
  4. Rub the olive oil evenly over both sides of each pork chop.
  5. Generously coat all sides of the pork chops with the spice rub mixture, pressing gently so it sticks.
  6. Place the seasoned pork chops on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) when checked with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
  8. Remove the baked pork chops from the oven. Let them rest on a cutting board, loosely tented with foil, for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting period is key for juicy pork chops.

Notes

  • For the juiciest pork chops, use a meat thermometer. Cooking past 145°F will result in dry meat.
  • If you prefer bone-out chops, reduce the cooking time by 2 to 4 minutes.
  • Serve these oven baked pork chops with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete family favorite meal.
  • To prevent dryness, you can sear the chops in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side before transferring them to the oven.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yummagnet.com/juicy-baked-pork-chops-simple-spice-rub/