Oven-baked pork chops are a comfort classic that is no longer just reserved for Sunday dinner. Although, my slow cooker pork chops with gravy recipe is definitely one of my family’s favorite pork chop recipes on weekends! Making pork chops in the oven takes just 20 minutes of cooking time which is perfect during the busy week! I highly recommend the brine, using my step-by-step guide. It is, however, optional. Much like the way a chicken brine or turkey brine imparts crazy amounts of flavor and moisture, this brine does the same for these chops! With just a few simple pantry staples to make a delicious dry rub, these baked boneless pork chops come out extremely moist and juicy on the inside with a beautifully caramelized crust on the outside. Super flavorful, with or without a luscious gravy to smother over top! (Hint, gravy is always a good idea!). Psst! I have an amazing Instant Pot pork chops recipe that not only requires no brine (thanks to the magic of pressure cooking) but you can make the mushroom gravy in the same pot! Want chicken for dinner instead? Try my baked chicken and potatoes recipe!
Why You’ll Love Making Baked Boneless Porkchops
Ingredients Needed
Complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.
Pork chops – I use 4 for this recipe. Easily double or half, depending on your crowd. If double, you’ll need more brine. You want them about ¾ – 1 inch thick. Any thinner and they could overcook and become dry. Olive oil – Helps with moisture throughout the baking process and also helps the dry rub adhere to the meat.
For the brine
Water – The liquid base of the brine is water. It is used for moisture and is able to absorb all of the additional flavors. Salt & Granulated sugar – Traditionally, the very basic ingredients in brine are salt and water. Sugar is a wonderful flavor addition, especially for naturally sweet meat like pork. Black peppercorns – Gives the intensity of black pepper without dissolving and getting lost in the water. Half a lemon – The acidity helps to break down the fibers making it so nice and tender. Other aromatics – A bay leaf, a lightly smashed garlic, and fresh sprigs of rosemary and thyme.
Dry rub
Light brown sugar – Not only will it add sweetness, but it also helps to brown the outside as the sugars start to caramelize. Smoked paprika – A delicious smoky note which pairs so well with all kinds of meat. Garlic, mustard, & onion powder – A simple blend of seasoning that most of you probably already have in our home but can easily be swapped for other spices. Salt – Only add this if you haven’t brined your pork chops. Ground black pepper – The other half of the dynamic salt and pepper duo.
A Quick and Easy Brine
How to Make This Baked Pork Chop Recipe
What to Serve with Pork Chops
I love a simple side of mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli, but you can definitely get creative with your sides. Try air fryer roasted potatoes, or smothered potatoes instead! For something a little different try this Velveeta mac and cheese, sautéed mushrooms and onions, roasted Brussel sprouts, or brown sugar glazed carrots. Or keep it simple with baked beans and a tossed green salad!
Tips & Tricks
Check for doneness. Using a meat thermometer, the best way to check if your pork is at the optimal temperature for not only a pleasing bite but to make sure it’s safe to eat is 145 degrees. Make sure not to overcook the pork chops. Check internal temperature at the 15-minute mark and go from there. Brine is highly recommended. The brine is enough for 4-6 pork chops, it’s optional but recommended as makes the meat moist and juicy. Letting the pork chops rest before slicing is important. It allows the juices to settle and not run out as soon as you slice into it. When this happens, it leaves the meat dry and without moisture.
I am willing to bet this becomes one of your new favorite pork chop recipes! Please share it with others so they can enjoy this incredibly fast and delicious weeknight dinner idea too! © Little Sunny Kitchen
