Juicy & Tender Oven-Baked Pork Chops: Your Go-To Easy Weeknight Dinner
Experience the effortless joy of perfectly cooked pork chops with this incredibly simple oven-baked recipe. These tender, juicy pork chops are elevated by a quick, savory mustard-garlic marinade and baked to golden perfection in under 25 minutes. Forget the fuss of breading or messy pan-frying – this recipe focuses on simple, flavorful ingredients and delivers exceptional results with minimal cleanup, making it an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights.
There are some evenings when the craving for a hearty, satisfying meal strikes, but the energy for elaborate cooking is nowhere to be found. That’s precisely when these oven-baked pork chops become your culinary superhero. This recipe streamlines the entire process: no extensive prep, no need to sear on the stovetop, and absolutely no stress. Just a few minutes to whisk together a vibrant marinade, brush it onto your pork chops, and slide them into the oven. In a mere 20-25 minutes, you’ll be pulling out succulent, flavor-packed pork chops that taste like they took hours to prepare, but actually fit perfectly into your busiest schedule.
This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a trusty go-to that deserves a permanent spot in your rotation. It leverages a handful of common pantry staples – good quality olive oil, tangy Dijon mustard, and fragrant garlic – to transform simple pork chops into something truly special. The result is consistently tender pork with a beautiful golden-brown crust, infused with a depth of flavor that belies its simplicity. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel accomplished without having spent half the evening in the kitchen. For a touch of classic comfort, serve these chops alongside a generous scoop of Homemade Applesauce, or brighten your plate with colorful and nutritious Roasted Carrots. The versatility of these pork chops means they pair beautifully with almost any side you can imagine, from a crisp green salad to creamy mashed potatoes.
Why These Oven-Baked Pork Chops Will Become Your Favorite
- Effortless Weeknight Meal: From start to finish, this entire recipe takes a remarkable 25 minutes, making it the ultimate solution for those hectic evenings when time is precious but you still want a wholesome, homemade dinner. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to quick culinary triumphs.
- Minimum Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: You don’t need a pantry full of exotic spices to create a delicious meal. This recipe relies on a few basic, readily available ingredients that come together to form a potent and incredibly tasty marinade, proving that simple can truly be sensational.
- No Stovetop Mess: One of the biggest advantages of oven baking is the significant reduction in cleanup. Since everything cooks neatly in a single baking dish, you avoid the grease splatter and constant monitoring often associated with pan-frying, leaving you with more time to enjoy your meal.
- Consistently Juicy Pork Chops: The magic lies in our simple technique. By brushing the pork chops generously with a mixture of olive oil and Dijon mustard before baking, we create a barrier that locks in moisture. This, combined with precise cooking temperatures, ensures that your pork chops emerge from the oven incredibly tender and juicy every single time, never dry or tough.
- Versatile Pairing Options: These perfectly seasoned pork chops are a blank canvas, ready to complement a wide array of side dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something light like a fresh garden salad, hearty like mashed potatoes, or nutritious like roasted seasonal vegetables, these chops adapt effortlessly, allowing you to build a complete and satisfying meal with ease.
Gather Your Ingredients for Perfectly Baked Pork Chops
For the exact measurements and full instructions, make sure to scroll to the bottom of the post for the COMPLETE PRINTABLE recipe card.
- Boneless Pork Chops: The star of our dish! For optimal juiciness and flavor, we recommend using pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick. Thicker chops are less likely to dry out and retain more moisture during baking. While boneless is convenient for quick preparation and eating, this recipe can also be adapted for bone-in chops (see tips below).
- Olive Oil: A staple in any kitchen, olive oil forms the base of our marinade, helping to tenderize the pork, prevent sticking, and contribute to that lovely golden crust. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Dijon Mustard: Don’t let the thought of mustard scare you! Dijon adds a wonderfully tangy, slightly pungent depth to the marinade that mellows beautifully during baking. It also acts as a tenderizer and helps create that delicious caramelized exterior without imparting an overpowering mustard flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key for an aromatic, savory kick. It infuses the pork with an irresistible flavor that complements the Dijon perfectly. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be used in a pinch (about 1/2 teaspoon per clove), but fresh is always recommended.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors. We recommend sea salt or kosher salt, adjusted to your personal preference.
- Dried Oregano: This classic herb brings an earthy, slightly peppery note that pairs wonderfully with pork and garlic. If you have fresh oregano on hand, feel free to substitute it (use about 1.5 times the amount of dried).
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and a gentle bite, rounding out the flavor profile of the marinade.
Step-by-Step: How To Master Oven-Baked Pork Chops
Making these pork chops is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a delicious and juicy meal:
- Preheat the Oven to 425°F (220°C): Getting your oven to a high temperature ensures that the pork chops cook quickly, sealing in their juices and developing a nice crust without drying out the interior. A properly preheated oven is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
- Prepare the Flavorful Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, dried oregano, and black pepper. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the mixture is well blended and emulsified. This quick marinade is the secret to tender, flavorful pork.
- Generously Coat the Pork Chops: Place your boneless pork chops in a shallow dish or directly on your prepared baking sheet. Using a brush, evenly coat both sides of each pork chop with the mustard-garlic marinade. Ensure every surface is covered for maximum flavor and moisture retention.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Transfer the coated pork chops to an oven-safe baking dish. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer, with a little space between each chop. This allows for even cooking and browning; overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting.
- Bake Until Perfectly Cooked Through: Roast the pork chops in your preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops. The most reliable way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chop, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Allow to Rest Briefly Before Serving: Once the pork chops reach the desired internal temperature, remove them from the oven. It’s essential to let them rest for at least 3-5 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is incredibly tender and juicy. Skipping this step can result in drier pork.
Expert Tips & Tricks for the Best Oven-Baked Pork Chops
- Always Use a Meat Thermometer: This is arguably the most important tip for perfectly cooked pork. Visual cues can be misleading, and overcooked pork chops are notoriously dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, juicy results. The temperature will rise slightly during resting.
- Do Not Skip the Rest Time: Just a few minutes of resting post-baking makes a world of difference. It allows the muscle fibers to relax and reabsorb the juices, preventing them from running out when you cut into the meat. Cover loosely with foil if you like, but it’s not strictly necessary for short rests.
- Pound Thicker Chops for Evenness: If your pork chops are unevenly thick, or if you prefer a quicker cooking time, use a meat mallet to gently pound them to a uniform 1-inch thickness. This ensures more consistent cooking and tender results.
- Line Your Baking Dish for Easy Cleanup: For an even simpler cleanup, line your baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil before adding the pork chops. This prevents sticking and makes washing up a breeze.
- Experiment with Fresh Herbs: While dried oregano is fantastic, feel free to swap in fresh herbs if you have them. Rosemary, thyme, or a blend of Italian herbs can add a beautiful aromatic dimension. Remember to use roughly 1.5 to 2 times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
- Bone-In Chops Work Too: This recipe is perfectly adaptable for bone-in pork chops. Just be aware that bone-in chops typically require an extra 5 to 7 minutes of baking time, depending on their thickness, to reach the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Add a Touch of Heat: If you enjoy a little spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the marinade will give your pork chops a subtle, warming kick without overwhelming the other flavors. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of heat.
- Transform it into a Sheet Pan Dinner: For a complete meal with minimal effort, add your favorite chopped vegetables directly to the baking dish to roast alongside the pork chops. Potatoes, carrots, green beans, or asparagus are excellent choices. Toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and arrange them around the chops for a truly one-pan wonder.
- Pat Pork Chops Dry: Before applying the marinade, pat the pork chops thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing excess surface moisture helps the marinade adhere better and allows the pork to develop a better sear and golden crust in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oven-Baked Pork Chops
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops are a great option and often contribute extra flavor. When using bone-in chops, simply increase the baking time by about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part of the meat, avoiding the bone.
Yes, marinating ahead of time is a fantastic idea for an even more flavorful and tender result! You can brush on the mustard-garlic marinade and then refrigerate the pork chops for anywhere from 30 minutes up to 8 hours before you plan to bake them. Just ensure they are covered when refrigerating.
If you are using very thin pork chops (less than 1/2 inch thick), they will cook much faster. Reduce the baking time to around 8-12 minutes, or until they reach 145°F (63°C) internal temperature. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking and drying out.
Leftover oven-baked pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, to retain moisture. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overcook, which can dry them out.
Explore More Delicious Pork Recipes
- Mongolian Pork
- Mississippi Pork Roast
- Pulled Pork Sliders
- Crispy Pork Cutlet
- Air Fryer Boneless Pork Chops
Oven Baked Pork Chops
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe
Video
Equipment
-
13×9 Baking Dish
-
Measuring Spoons
-
Meat Thermometer (highly recommended)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 425º F (220°C). Prepare a 13×9 baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
-
In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, dried oregano, and black pepper until all ingredients are well combined and form a smooth marinade.3 Tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 2 cloves garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
-
Place the boneless pork chops in the prepared baking dish. Using a pastry brush or spoon, coat both sides of each pork chop generously and evenly with the prepared marinade mixture.4 boneless pork chops
-
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a pork chop registers an internal temperature of 145º F (63°C). Cooking time will vary based on the thickness of your pork chops; thicker chops will take longer.
-
Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring incredibly tender and moist pork.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Like this recipe? Leave a comment below!
I’ve created a fun and engaging community group on Facebook, and I would absolutely love for you to join us! It’s a vibrant space where you can share YOUR favorite recipes, ask cooking questions, and stay up-to-date with all the latest news and new recipes from Dinners, Dishes and Desserts. Don’t miss out on the delicious conversations!
Be sure to follow me on Instagram and tag #dinnersdishes so I can see all the wonderful DINNERS, DISHES, AND DESSERTS recipes YOU create!
Stay connected with me on my social media channels so you never miss a post or a new recipe!
Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram