The Best Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe

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Craving tender, succulent pork chops that burst with flavor? This Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe delivers just that with a simple dry brine and a quick oven finish. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, this Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe ensures moist, golden-brown chops every time. Here’s why it’s your new go-to for an easy, delicious meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unbeatable Juiciness: A dry brine keeps these chops moist in this Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe.
• Golden Crust: Searing adds a flavorful, crispy edge.
• Quick and Easy: This Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe comes together fast with big results.
• Versatile Sauce: Optional pan sauce elevates it to restaurant quality.

Tools Needed

To whip up this tasty Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe, grab these essentials. Missing anything? Visit Our Shop for quality kitchen gear!

• Oven-Safe Skillet: Heavy-duty for searing and baking.
• Kitchen Tongs: Perfect for flipping and searing the fat side.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For prepping lemon and herbs.
• Foil or Parchment: Keeps moisture locked in during baking.

Ingredients

For the Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe:

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• Salt (for dry brining)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or dried herbs/spice blends)
• ½ cup chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Dry Brine: Season 4 pork chops generously with salt on both sides. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
2. Prep Ingredients: Slice 1 lemon into wedges and chop 1 tablespoon fresh thyme. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Sear Chops: Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Pat chops dry and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Sprinkle half the thyme over the top side while searing. Sear the fatty edge with tongs if applicable.
4. Bake: Flip chops seared-side up, add remaining thyme and a few lemon wedges around them. Loosely cover with foil or parchment and bake for 8–12 minutes until internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest: Remove from oven, let rest 5 minutes, and serve as is—or make the sauce below for your Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe.
6. Optional Pan Sauce: Remove chops and lemon wedges (squeeze juice into skillet). Over medium-high heat, add ½ cup chicken stock and 1 tablespoon maple syrup. Simmer until reduced by half, adjust with salt or more syrup, then swirl in 1 tablespoon butter off heat for a velvety finish.
7. Serve: Plate chops with sauce and garnish with fresh herbs if desired—enjoy your Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe!

Expert Tips For a Perfect Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe

• Dry Brine Magic: Don’t skip the 30-minute salt rest—it’s key to juiciness in this Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe.
• Pat Dry: Ensures a crisp, golden sear every time.
• Cover While Baking: Traps moisture for tender chops.
• Resting Matters: Lets juices redistribute for maximum flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 35 minutes (including brine)
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping Brine: Without it, chops dry out in this Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe.
• Overcooking: Use a thermometer—145°F is perfect, not more.
• No Sear: Browning adds flavor—don’t skip the skillet step.
• Wet Chops: Pat dry or they’ll steam, not sear.

Variations

• Herb Swap: Try rosemary or sage instead of fresh thyme in this Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
• Sweet Twist: Use honey or brown sugar instead of maple syrup.
• Citrus Boost: Swap lemon for orange wedges.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes with a splash of stock to keep moist.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chops from this Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chops in this Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe?

Yes, but bone-in adds flavor—adjust cook time slightly.

2. Why dry brine instead of wet?

Dry brining enhances juiciness without diluting flavor in this Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe.

3. Can I skip the sauce?

Absolutely—it’s optional, and the chops are still delicious solo.

4. How do I know they’re done?

Check for 145°F internally—key to a perfect Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe.

5. Can I use dried herbs?

Yes, use 1 teaspoon dried fresh thyme instead of fresh.

6. What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

Sear in a regular skillet, then transfer to a baking dish.

Conclusion

This Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy tender, flavorful pork chops with minimal effort. The dry brine and quick sear lock in moisture, while the optional sauce adds a velvety finish. Make this Juicy Baked Pork Chops Recipe for dinner tonight and savor a meal that’s simple, satisfying, and downright delicious—your kitchen will thank you! Happy cooking!