Juicy Spice-Rubbed Baked Pork Chops (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
4 pork chops, boneless or bone-in
02 -
1/4 cup butter, cut into pats
→ Spice Rub
03 -
2 tablespoons brown sugar
04 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
07 -
1 teaspoon chili powder
08 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
09 -
1 teaspoon salt
10 -
1/4 teaspoon pepper, or to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and position the rack in the middle of the oven for even cooking.
02 -
In a small bowl, mix together all your spice rub ingredients - brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
03 -
Place your pork chops in a 9x13 baking dish. Generously coat both sides of each chop with your spice rub mixture, massaging it in so it sticks well.
04 -
Place pats of butter on top of each seasoned pork chop. As they bake, the butter will melt down, creating a delicious sauce that keeps the meat juicy.
05 -
Bake the pork chops uncovered for about 20-23 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. For thinner chops (less than 3/4"), check around 18 minutes. Thicker chops (over 1") may need longer than 25 minutes. Bone-in chops typically take a bit longer than boneless.
06 -
Remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Serve with the delicious pan juices spooned over top.
# Notes:
01 -
For most accurate results, use an instant-read thermometer with external probe
02 -
Modern pork is safe to eat at 145°F and can still be slightly pink inside
03 -
The butter creates a natural sauce - no need for additional gravy