Baked Pork Chops II: Easy, Juicy, Flavorful Recipe

Baked Pork Chops II RecipeBaked Pork Chops II is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe is simple yet delicious, combining tender pork chops with a flavorful seasoning blend to create a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe.

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops

  • 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)

Optional Glaze

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the pork chops cook evenly and develop a nice, crispy exterior without drying out.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops

  1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Rub the pork chops with olive oil, then evenly coat them with the spice mixture on all sides.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a delicious crust.

Step 4: Bake the Pork Chops

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the pork chops for about 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature to ensure they are cooked perfectly.

Step 5: Optional Glaze

While the pork chops are baking, prepare the optional glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the glaze thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. After the pork chops have baked for 10 minutes, brush the glaze over them and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 6: Rest the Pork Chops

Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Tips and Variations

Tips

  • Prevent Drying Out: To avoid dry pork chops, do not overcook them. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and let them rest after baking.
  • Covered or Uncovered: Baking pork chops uncovered helps them develop a crispy exterior. However, if you prefer a more tender chop, you can cover them with foil halfway through baking.
  • Flipping: There’s no need to flip the pork chops while baking if they are in an oven-safe skillet. The initial sear ensures even cooking.

Variations

  • Herb-Crusted Pork Chops: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to the spice rub for a different flavor profile.
  • Maple-Mustard Glaze: Substitute the honey in the glaze with maple syrup for a slightly different but equally delicious glaze.
  • 4 Ingredient Oven Baked Pork Chops: Simplify the recipe by using just pork chops, olive oil, salt, and pepper for a quick and easy meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Conclusion

Baked Pork Chops II is a versatile and satisfying dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you stick to the basic recipe or experiment with the variations and tips provided, you’ll end up with a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and share your experiences with us in the comments below. Don’t forget to explore other amazing recipes on easycrispyrecipes.com and subscribe to our newsletter for more culinary inspirations.

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