Pork chops are a go-to for me when I need a quick and satisfying meal. They are so versatile and really easy to cook, which makes them perfect for any day of the week. Today, I’m sharing two simple pork chop recipes that I love to make for my family.
Whether you like a hands-off oven meal or something with a bit more spice and a crispy finish, I have you covered. Let’s get these delicious pork chop ideas on your plate!
Jump to Recipe:
Easy Baked Pork Chops for Dinner
If you want a simple, hands-off dinner, these baked pork chops are perfect. They come out tender and juicy every time, great for any busy evening.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Bone-in Chops: I find bone-in pork chops stay juicier and have more flavor when baked. They handle the oven heat really well.
- Don’t Overcook: Pork chops are lean meat, so they can dry out easily. Cook them until they reach 145°F internal temperature for the best, moist results.
What You Need
- 2 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 25 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Get Ready
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab your pork chops and gently pat them dry with paper towels. This small step helps them get a nice outside when they bake.
Step 2: Season the Chops
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Now, rub this spice mixture all over both sides of each pork chop. Make sure they are well coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Bake and Rest
Place the seasoned pork chops on a baking sheet. Put them in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. You want an internal thermometer to read 145°F (63°C). Once done, take them out and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before you cut into them.
📝 Final Note
Letting the pork chops rest after baking is super important. It helps the juices settle back into the meat, keeping them extra tender and moist.
Spicy Blackened Pork Chops Recipe
These blackened pork chops bring a lot of zest and a little kick to your plate. The cooking method creates a crispy, spiced crust that is wonderful. It’s quicker than you think to make them!
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Hot Skillet is Key: A very hot cast iron skillet is crucial for that perfect blackened crust. Don’t be afraid if it gets smoky – that’s part of the process!
- Thin Chops Work Best: I find that thinner chops, about 3/4 inch thick, are ideal for blackening. They cook through quickly and evenly, ensuring a great crust without overcooking the inside.
What You Need
- 2 boneless pork chops, about 3/4-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning blend (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt to taste (if your seasoning blend isn’t salty enough)
⏱️ Time: 15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Prep the Chops
Take your pork chops and pat them very dry with paper towels. Next, brush both sides of each chop lightly with melted butter. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of blackened seasoning blend over both sides, pressing it gently to make sure it sticks.
Step 2: Heat Skillet
Place a cast iron skillet (or another heavy-bottomed pan) over high heat. Let it heat up for 3-5 minutes, until it’s very hot and you might even see a tiny bit of smoke. This high heat is essential for the blackening process.
Step 3: Blacken and Serve
Carefully place the seasoned pork chops into the very hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side. You’re looking for a dark, crusty “blackened” layer to form on the outside. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Serve immediately.
📝 Final Note
When blackening, it’s a good idea to open a window or turn on your kitchen fan. It creates some smoke, but that smoke is what gives you that fantastic blackened crust and flavor!
