How to Make Oven-Baked Boneless Pork Chops
Baked pork chops provide a high-protein, satisfying and delicious entree. Boneless cuts take slightly longer than bone-in cuts to cook, but the difference is negligible; there's really no significant difference in preparation when you're baking them.
Baked pork chops provide a high-protein, satisfying and delicious entree. Pork chops are relatively lean and a great source for vitamins and minerals. You might be wondering how long to cook boneless pork chops in the oven. It turns out bone-in and boneless pork chops have similar cooking times — it's the thickness of the chop that makes a difference. Baking boneless pork chops in the oven doesn't have to be intimidating, as long as you pay attention to time and temperature.
Read More: What are the Health Benefits of Pork Chops?
To make sure you have tender pork chops in the oven, follow these tips:
- Choose chops that are around one inch in thickness - chops that are too thin will dry out faster in the oven.
- Sear your pork chops first on the stovetop and then bake them in the oven - if not searing first, add the searing time to the total cooking time.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to reach a cooking temperature of 145 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Always let your chops rest after cooking - cutting into them too soon will drain the juices and leave you with dry pork.
Things You'll Need
Oven-safe or cast iron skillet
Cutting board
Canola oil
Nonserrated kitchen knife
Seasonings
Instant-read meat thermometer
Aluminum foil
How to Make Boneless Pork Chops in the Oven
Step 1
Preheat and PrepPreheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place 4, one-inch thick pork chops on a cutting board and dry with a paper towel. Trim any excess fat from the pork chops. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper and 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano. Sprinkle the seasoning on both sides of the pork chops
Step 2
Sear the Pork ChopsHeat an oven-safe skillet or cast iron skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons canola oil. Place the pork chops in the oil and sear each side for 3 minutes.
Read more: How Much Protein is in Pork?
Step 3
Bake in the OvenTransfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches between 145 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Step 4
Let RestWhen your pork chops reach the minimum temperature, remove from the oven and place a piece of foil over the top. Let the chops rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute around the meat.
Pork Chop Recipe Ideas
German Style Pork Chops
Prepare and bake your pork chops according to the instructions above. When you remove the pork chops from the oven, transfer them to a plate and cover to rest and keep warm. In the hot skillet, add one thinly sliced apple and one thinly sliced onion — about one cup of each. Add 2 tablespoons of apple juice. Turn heat to medium and sauté until the onions and apples are soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Serve on top of the pork chops.
Asian Style Pork Chops
Place the boneless pork chops in a gallon sized sealable bag. Add 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon grated fresh garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Evenly coat the pork chops and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Bake your boneless pork chops according to the instructions above. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Italian Seasoned Pork Chops
Place the boneless pork chops in a gallon sized sealable bag. Add 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt, and 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme. Evenly coat the pork chops and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Bake your boneless pork chops according to the instructions above. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Read more: Healthy Cooking with Pork Chops