Are you tired of dry and tough thin pork chops? Look no further than your oven!
Baking thin pork chops is a simple and easy way to achieve juicy and flavorful meat. With a few basic ingredients and some helpful tips, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
In this article, we’ll explore different methods for baking thin pork chops in the oven and provide step-by-step instructions to ensure success every time.
So preheat your oven and let’s get started!
How To Make Thin Pork Chops In The Oven?
First, preheat your oven to 425°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can still bake the pork chops in a baking dish.
Next, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and rub them with olive oil. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat and prevent it from drying out.
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix the spices together. Rub the spice mixture over all sides of the pork chops, making sure to coat them evenly.
Place the pork chops on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes for 1-inch thick boneless pork chops. Thinner pork chops will cook faster, so keep an eye on them after 15 minutes of baking. Bone-in pork chops will take longer to cook.
It’s important not to overcook the pork chops as they may dry out. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. The pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Once done, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle and redistribute, keeping the meat nice and juicy.
Choosing The Right Cut Of Pork
Choosing the right cut of pork is crucial when making thin pork chops in the oven. While all standard cuts of pork are suitable for roasting, some cuts are better suited for thin pork chops. The most popular cuts of pork for thin pork chops are loin chops and boneless pork chops.
Loin chops are a premium cut of pork that are lean and tender. They are cut from the loin, which runs along the pig’s back and contains the tenderloin. Loin chops have a small T-shaped bone that runs through the meat, which can be easily removed if desired. They are a great option for thin pork chops because they cook quickly and evenly.
Boneless pork chops are another great option for thin pork chops. They are cut from the loin or the sirloin and have no bones, which makes them easy to cook and eat. Boneless pork chops are also lean and tender, making them a healthy and delicious choice.
When choosing your pork chops, look for meat that is pale pink and firm to the touch. The meat should be evenly covered with a layer of firm, white fat. Avoid anything that looks greasy or grey as this can mean that the meat is past its best.
Preparing The Pork Chops For Baking
To prepare thin pork chops for baking in the oven, start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can still bake the pork chops in a baking dish.
Next, pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and rub them with olive oil. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat and prevent it from drying out.
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix the spices together. Rub the spice mixture over all sides of the pork chops, making sure to coat them evenly.
Place the pork chops on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes for 1-inch thick boneless pork chops. Thinner pork chops will cook faster, so keep an eye on them after 15 minutes of baking. Bone-in pork chops will take longer to cook.
It’s important not to overcook the pork chops as they may dry out. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. The pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Once done, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle and redistribute, keeping the meat nice and juicy.
By following these simple steps, you can make delicious thin pork chops in the oven that are juicy and flavorful every time.
Seasoning Options For Thin Pork Chops
When it comes to seasoning thin pork chops, there are many options to choose from. One popular option is to use a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. This blend of spices adds a nice kick of heat and smokiness to the pork chops.
Another great seasoning option is a combination of paprika, garlic powder, coarse kosher salt, sage, marjoram, and thyme. This blend of spices adds a savory and herby flavor profile to the pork chops.
For those who prefer a sweeter taste, brown sugar can be added to the spice blend. This adds a delicate sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the pork chops.
No matter which seasoning option you choose, it’s important to rub the spices evenly over all sides of the pork chops before baking them in the oven. This ensures that every bite is flavorful and delicious.
Basic Method For Baking Thin Pork Chops In The Oven
When baking thin pork chops in the oven, it’s important to choose cuts that are at least 1/2 inch thick. Trim any extra fat off the thin boneless pork chops to prevent them from becoming too greasy.
To begin, season the meat by mixing the seasonings and rubbing the mixture all over the chops. If you have time, let the pork chops sit in the seasoning for 10 to 15 minutes before cooking.
Next, sear the chops on the stovetop for 2 minutes per side. If the chops are thin, they might actually be done at this point. Check their internal temperature to make sure.
If your chops are thick, your next step is to bake them in a 400°F oven until they are cooked through (145°F), about 10 minutes. Lay the pork chops onto a sheet pan with plenty of room around each one. You don’t want them touching in any way as this can cause uneven cooking.
Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your pork. You want to cook your pork chops to a safe internal temperature. The internal temperature of the pork chop should range from 145°F-160°F. For thinner pork chops, remove them from the oven right at 140°F, and carry-over cooking will finish as the chops rest.
An instant-read thermometer will be your best friend here! You can even use a Bluetooth-enabled thermometer like this one to allow your phone to alert you when they’re ready!
Once done, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle and redistribute, keeping the meat nice and juicy.
With these simple steps, you can make delicious and tender thin pork chops in the oven every time!
Variations On Baking Thin Pork Chops
While the recipe above uses a specific seasoning blend, there are many variations you can try to switch up the flavor of your baked thin pork chops. Here are a few ideas:
– Italian seasoning: Combine dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a classic Italian flavor.
– Lemon pepper: Rub the pork chops with olive oil and sprinkle with lemon pepper seasoning for a bright and zesty taste.
– BBQ rub: Use a store-bought BBQ rub or make your own by combining brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will give your pork chops a smoky and sweet flavor.
– Garlic herb: Mix together minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the pork chops for a fragrant and savory taste.
– Honey mustard: Combine Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the pork chops before baking for a sweet and tangy flavor.
You can also experiment with different sides to serve with your baked thin pork chops. Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes would be delicious. You could also serve them with a side salad or some mashed potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
Tips For Achieving Perfectly Cooked Thin Pork Chops
Thin pork chops are a great option for a quick and easy meal, but they can be tricky to cook perfectly. Here are some tips to ensure your thin pork chops come out juicy and flavorful every time:
1. Bring the pork chops to room temperature before cooking. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from drying out.
2. Season the pork chops generously with your favorite spices. The crust that forms on the outside of the pork chops during cooking is important for flavor, so don’t be afraid to be liberal with your seasoning.
3. Use a hot pan or oven to cook the pork chops quickly. Thin pork chops should be cooked on high heat to sear and brown the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
4. Don’t overcook the pork chops. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat, and remove them from the heat as soon as they reach 145°F.
5. Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle and redistribute, keeping the meat moist and delicious.
By following these tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked thin pork chops every time. Enjoy!
