Go Back
–+ servings
Melt-In-Your-Mouth Pork Chops pinterest

Melt-In-Your-Mouth Pork Chops

These juicy, tender pork chops are seasoned with a flavorful blend of herbs and spices and baked to perfection. The brown sugar caramelizes during cooking, creating a mouthwatering crust while keeping the meat incredibly moist.
No ratings yet
Print Pin
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Pork Chops, Tender Pork Chops, Baked Pork Chops, Juicy Pork
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 385kcal

Equipment

  • Oven-Safe Skillet (preferably cast-iron)
  • Meat Thermometer

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in pork chops 1-inch thick, approximately 8 oz each
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar light or dark both work beautifully
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder fresh minced garlic adds even more aroma
  • 2 teaspoons paprika smoked paprika adds depth of flavor
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme rosemary or sage make excellent alternatives
  • 1 teaspoon salt kosher salt preferred for better adhesion
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground elevates the flavor profile
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat lovers
  • 2 tablespoons butter cut into small pieces
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth low-sodium preferred

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Let the chops sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  • In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Mix thoroughly.
  • Brush both sides of each pork chop with olive oil. Generously coat both sides of each chop with the seasoning mixture, pressing it in gently.
  • Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  • Pour chicken broth into the skillet around (not over) the pork chops. Place small pieces of butter on top of each chop.
  • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  • Remove from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Allow the chops to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a lighter version, replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener, use ghee instead of butter, opt for center-cut loin chops, reduce salt to ½ teaspoon, or replace half the chicken broth with apple cider.
Serve with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, warm apple compote, or a simple garden salad.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 385kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 24g | Sodium: 720mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 8g | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 1.2mg
Tried this recipe?FOLLOW ME @TastyDailyMeals and PIN this recipe