Discover the secret to perfectly tender and juicy pork chops every single time. Baked in the oven with a sweet and savory spice rub, these chops lock in moisture and flavor, making it a foolproof dinner that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 4 Thick-cut pork chops (bone-in or boneless, about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil (for coating)
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar (helps with caramelization)
- 1 tsp Paprika smoked or sweet, based on preference)
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make cleanup a breeze.
- Use paper towels to pat the pork chops completely dry. Removing excess moisture ensures the oil and spices stick perfectly to the meat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create your dry rub.
- Rub both sides of the pork chops evenly with the olive oil. Next, generously sprinkle the spice mixture over the chops, using your hands to gently press the rub into the meat.
- Place the seasoned pork chops onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The best way to check for done
- Remove the chops from the oven and transfer them to a plate. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time is essential for keeping the meat juicy!
Nutrition
Calories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 0.3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 584mgPotassium: 33mgFiber: 0.4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 248IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 0.3mg