365 Low-Fat Main Dishes — One Recipe for Every Day!
Easy, beginner-friendly, with full nutrition info.
👉 Download Now – Just $2.90!Baking pork chops in the oven has become one of my go-to cooking methods. After all, nothing beats the joy of biting into a perfectly juicy and flavorful pork chop. If you find yourself craving something delicious, easy to make, and healthy, you’re in the right place. I created this post because I believe everyone deserves to enjoy mouthwatering meals without spending all day in the kitchen.
This post is for anyone who loves flavorful, healthy meals—especially those who enjoy meal prep or want to impress their families with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just someone who appreciates good food, these recipes will fit into your lifestyle. Each recipe I’ve compiled here features easy-to-follow steps and ingredients that are not only healthy but also delightful to eat.
Get ready to explore 20 amazing pork chop recipes that are baked to perfection. From Classic Herb and Garlic Baked Pork Chops to Coconut Curry Baked Pork Chops, you’ll find various flavors that cater to your taste buds. Each recipe offers not just delicious tastes, but also tips on achieving juicy pork chops every time. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Key Takeaways
– You’ll discover 20 delicious pork chop recipes that are simple to prepare and perfect for meal prepping.
– Each recipe includes a unique flavor profile, ensuring variety in your weekly meals.
– Tips for cooking pork chops in the oven help you achieve that juicy, tender texture you crave.
– This guide caters to busy lifestyles, making it easier to whip up healthy meals without fuss.
– Get inspired to try new flavors and elevate your cooking game with these easy pork chop recipes.
1. Classic Herb and Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Craving something savory and satisfying? The combination of herb and garlic is a timeless classic that elevates juicy pork chops to new heights. This recipe is not only simple but also delivers a burst of flavor with every bite, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
With the benefits of fresh herbs, this dish offers a delightful taste and nutritious profile. The garlic adds a savory kick, while the herbs bring a fragrant touch. Plus, the preparation is quick and hassle-free, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in pork chops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture onto the pork chops and let sit for 30 minutes.
4. Place the chops on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
For juicier results, opt for thicker chops and always let your meat rest before slicing.
How To Choose The Perfect Pork Chops for Oven Cooking
When it comes to making delicious pork chops in the oven, selecting the right cut is crucial. The perfect pork chop can make your meal prep not just easy, but incredibly satisfying. Here’s how to choose the best pork chops to ensure they turn out juicy and flavorful every time.
1. Cut Type
Pork chops come in several cuts, including loin, rib, shoulder, and sirloin. Loin chops are lean and tender, perfect for quick cooking. Rib chops are a bit fattier, offering more flavor. Shoulder chops are tougher but are great for slow cooking. Choose loin or rib chops for oven baking to ensure they stay juicy and tender.
2. Bone-In vs. Boneless
Bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful because the bone helps retain moisture during cooking. Boneless chops are easier to slice and eat but may dry out faster. If you want a more robust flavor, opt for bone-in chops. If you prefer convenience, go for boneless.
3. Thickness
The thickness of your pork chops matters. Aim for chops that are about 1-inch thick. Thicker chops are less likely to dry out and can hold up to oven cooking better. If you choose thinner chops, reduce the cooking time to prevent drying out.
4. Freshness and Color
Look for pork chops that are bright pink to light red. Avoid any pieces that appear gray or have a dull color. Fresh pork should also smell clean and not have any off-odors. When buying fresh meat, purchasing from a reputable butcher can ensure quality.
5. Marbling
Marbling refers to the small flecks of fat within the meat. More marbling often means more flavor and juiciness. Choose pork chops with a good amount of marbling for tastier results. They will cook better in the oven and provide that juicy texture everyone loves.
6. Organic and Grass-Fed Options
If health is a concern, consider organic or grass-fed pork. These options often have higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and can be more flavorful. While they may cost a bit more, the taste difference can be worth it, especially for special meals.
Pro Tip: When you bring your pork chops home, let them sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them to cook evenly and stay juicy!
Now that you know how to choose the perfect pork chops for the oven, you can confidently embark on your cooking adventures. Selecting the right type, thickness, and quality makes all the difference in achieving those juicy, oven-cooked pork chops that are perfect for meal prep. Enjoy experimenting with different marinades and baked pork chop recipes to discover your favorites!
2. Sweet and Spicy Maple Glazed Pork Chops
Looking to spice up your dinner routine? These sweet and spicy maple glazed pork chops are here to impress! The blend of maple syrup and a touch of cayenne brings a delightful balance of flavors that’s sure to wow your taste buds.
Not only are these chops delicious, but they also pack a protein punch. The glaze creates a caramelized crust that adds texture while keeping the pork juicy and flavorful. Plus, the preparation is quick, making it an excellent option for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the pork chops lightly with salt and pepper.
3. In a saucepan over low heat, combine maple syrup, soy sauce, and cayenne. Cook until thickened.
4. Brush the glaze over pork chops and place them in the oven.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, basting halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Serve with sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal.
3. Lemon Pepper Pork Chops
Feeling like something bright and zesty? Lemon pepper pork chops are the perfect solution! The freshness of lemon combined with bold black pepper creates an invigorating flavor that lifts the pork to new heights.
These chops are not only packed with flavor, but they are also nutritious and quick to prepare. The citrus helps tenderize the meat while providing a refreshing kick. Serve them with a side of steamed broccoli for a wholesome meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub the pork chops with lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, and salt.
3. Place the chops in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Serve with steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Using fresh lemon will enhance the flavor, and letting the chops rest for a few minutes before slicing ensures maximum juiciness.
4. Asian-Inspired Sesame Ginger Baked Pork Chops
Ready to take your taste buds on an adventure? These sesame ginger baked pork chops are bursting with umami flavors! The combination of soy sauce and ginger creates a delightful profile that’s both savory and aromatic.
These chops are not only flavorful but also surprisingly easy to prepare. Marinating them infuses the meat with rich flavors, while baking ensures they come out tender and juicy. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions to make them look as good as they taste.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
– 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions:
1. Marinate pork chops in soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger for at least 1 hour.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Place marinated pork chops in a baking dish and bake for 25 minutes.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Pair with jasmine rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
5. Italian Herb-Crusted Oven-Baked Pork Chops
Transport your taste buds to Italy with these Italian herb-crusted pork chops! The crunchy herb crust made from breadcrumbs, parmesan, and Italian herbs gives these baked chops a wonderful texture and flavor.
Not only are they delicious, but they also make for a visually appealing dish. The preparation is simple, and baking allows for a hands-off approach, giving you time to prepare a fresh salad on the side for a balanced meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat pork chops with the breadcrumb mixture thoroughly.
4. Place them on a lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
For an extra crispy crust, spray with a little cooking oil before baking.
🍽️ Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
Enjoy a hassle-free meal prep with this easy Slow Cooker Chicken & Stuffing recipe, perfect for busy weeknights.
6. Smoky Paprika Baked Pork Chops
If you love a smoky flavor, these paprika-baked pork chops are just what you need. The smoked paprika adds a unique depth that makes each bite unforgettable!
These chops are not only easy to make but also create a deliciously charred outer layer that locks in moisture. You’ll appreciate the simplicity of the preparation, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal with family or friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sprinkle both sides of the pork chops with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the pork chops on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes.
4. Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pair with a tangy apple slaw to complement the smoky flavor.
Fun fact: A simple rub of smoked paprika can unlock deep, smoky notes in pork chops in the oven without extra fat. It’s perfect for meal prep—bake ahead, then rest 10 minutes for juicier, more flavorful bites.
7. Mediterranean Olive Oil and Feta Pork Chops
Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with these olive oil and feta pork chops! The tangy feta combined with fresh herbs creates a delightful flavor that pairs beautifully with pork.
Marinating the pork chops in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and feta ensures they are incredibly juicy and rich in taste. The preparation is straightforward, making this dish a fantastic option for a quick yet impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, feta, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the pork chops in the mixture for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Bake the marinated chops for 25 minutes.
Serve with a side of couscous for a Mediterranean feast!
8. Spicy BBQ Baked Pork Chops
Get ready for a flavor explosion with spicy BBQ baked pork chops! Perfect for barbecue lovers, this dish brings the taste of summer right to your kitchen.
Coating the pork chops with your favorite BBQ spices and zesty BBQ sauce creates a sticky, sweet, and spicy flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. The preparation is quick, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/4 cup BBQ seasoning
– 1/2 cup spicy BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub pork chops with BBQ seasoning.
3. Top each chop with BBQ sauce.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
5. Serve with coleslaw for a classic BBQ combo.
Adjust the level of spice by using mild or spicy BBQ sauce based on your preference.
9. Creamy Mushroom and Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Indulge in comfort food with creamy mushroom and garlic baked pork chops! This dish is rich, satisfying, and perfect for cozy dinners at home.
Sautéing sliced mushrooms and garlic before mixing them with heavy cream creates a deliciously creamy sauce that elevates the pork chops. The result is a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 2 cups sliced mushrooms
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until soft.
3. Mix in heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Place pork chops in a baking dish and pour the mushroom mixture over the top.
5. Bake for 30 minutes until pork is cooked.
Serve with mashed potatoes for a delightful pairing!
10. Cranberry and Orange Glazed Pork Chops
Add a festive touch to your dinner with cranberry and orange glazed pork chops! The balance of sweet and tart flavors creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for special occasions.
Preparing the glaze with fresh cranberries and orange juice adds a vibrant color and taste to the pork chops. The recipe is straightforward, making it a great option for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 2 cups fresh cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, and honey. Bring to a boil and simmer until cranberries burst.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper and place them in a baking dish.
4. Brush cranberry glaze over the chops.
5. Bake for 25 minutes until cooked through.
This dish pairs wonderfully with wild rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
11. Garlic Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops
If you’re a cheese lover, these garlic parmesan crusted pork chops will become your new favorite! The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a deliciously rich flavor that pairs perfectly with pork.
The preparation is simple, and the baking method ensures you get a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside. It’s a great option for an easy yet impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat pork chops with the mixture.
4. Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.
Add fresh herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra burst of flavor!
Fun fact: A garlic parmesan crust creates a crispy shield that locks in juiciness for pork chops in the oven. With a quick mix of breadcrumbs, parmesan, and garlic, you’ll bake perfect, golden chops in about 20 minutes. Pat dry, then press the crust on for best results.
12. Coconut Curry Baked Pork Chops
Ready to spice things up? These coconut curry baked pork chops will take your taste buds on a flavorful journey! The creamy coconut milk combined with fragrant curry spices creates a deliciously rich sauce that infuses the pork.
Marinating the pork chops in coconut milk and curry powder ensures they are incredibly tender and bursting with flavor. The preparation is simple, making this dish a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine coconut milk, curry powder, lime juice, and salt.
2. Marinate the pork chops for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Bake the marinated pork chops for 30-35 minutes until cooked through.
Serve with jasmine rice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a complete meal.
13. Honey Mustard Baked Pork Chops
Enjoy a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors with honey mustard baked pork chops! The honey beautifully balances the sharpness of the mustard, creating a glaze that caramelizes in the oven.
This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. You’ll love how the juicy pork is enhanced by the sweet and savory glaze, making it a perfect choice for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix honey and mustard together in a bowl.
3. Brush the mixture over the pork chops.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
Serve with roasted sweet potatoes for a perfect pairing.
14. Pesto Baked Pork Chops
Think pesto is just for pasta? Think again! These pesto baked pork chops are packed with flavor and are super easy to make. The zesty basil notes of the pesto paired with juicy pork create a heavenly combination.
Simply spread a generous layer of pesto over the pork chops, and you are on your way to a delicious meal. The preparation is quick and straightforward, making this a go-to recipe for busy nights.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread pesto evenly over each pork chop.
3. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes until cooked through.
Pair with a side of garlic bread and salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
15. Teriyaki Baked Pork Chops
Bring the taste of Asia to your kitchen with these teriyaki baked pork chops! The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce creates a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Marinating the pork chops in teriyaki sauce ensures they are tender and bursting with flavor. This recipe is quick and straightforward, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
Instructions:
1. Marinate pork chops in teriyaki sauce for at least 1 hour.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Place marinated pork chops in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
Serve with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
16. Chipotle Lime Baked Pork Chops
Looking for a little kick? These chipotle lime baked pork chops are the answer! The smoky heat of chipotle combined with zesty lime creates a burst of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Mixing chipotle powder, lime juice, and olive oil for the marinade ensures the pork is infused with flavor. The recipe is simple and quick, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
– Juice of 2 limes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine chipotle powder, lime juice, and olive oil.
2. Marinate pork chops for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Bake for 30 minutes until cooked through.
Serve with avocado salsa for a fresh twist!
17. Apple Cider Glazed Pork Chops
Bring the flavors of fall to your table with apple cider glazed pork chops! The sweet and tangy glaze made with apple cider and balsamic vinegar makes this dish utterly irresistible.
Simmering apple cider with balsamic vinegar until it reduces creates a rich glaze that enhances the pork chops beautifully. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, simmer apple cider and balsamic vinegar until thickened.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Brush the glaze over the pork chops and place in a baking dish.
4. Bake for 30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts for a delightful autumn dish.
18. Mediterranean Herb and Garlic Baked Pork Chops
Infuse your pork chops with Mediterranean flair using a flavorful herb and garlic marinade. This dish is simple yet bursting with flavor, making it a great option for any meal.
Mixing olive oil, minced garlic, and a blend of Mediterranean herbs creates a marinade that brings out the best in the pork. The preparation is quick, and the baking method ensures tender and juicy chops every time.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Bake for 30 minutes until cooked through.
Serve with a side of couscous for a Mediterranean feast.
19. Maple Mustard Baked Pork Chops
Experience a delightful combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy mustard with these maple mustard baked pork chops! The marinade caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a mouthwatering glaze.
This recipe is straightforward and yields succulent pork chops that are full of flavor. It’s a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Marinate the pork chops for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Bake for 30 minutes until cooked through.
Pair with green beans for a delicious side!
20. Garlic Butter Baked Pork Chops
Last but certainly not least, garlic butter baked pork chops are the ultimate comfort food! The richness from the butter combined with aromatic garlic makes this dish simply irresistible.
Melt the garlic and butter together before pouring it over the pork chops. The result is a deliciously tender chop that’s bursting with flavor, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter and garlic together until fragrant.
3. Pour the garlic butter over pork chops.
4. Bake for 30 minutes until cooked through.
Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for that ultimate comfort experience!
Fun fact: melt 1/2 cup butter with garlic and pour it over 4 pork chops for garlic butter baked pork chops. This simple step keeps every chop juicy and flavorful as it bakes in the oven.
Conclusion
With these 20 oven-baked pork chop recipes, your dinner plans are set for weeks to come. From classic flavors to unique twists, there’s something here for everyone.
Baked to perfection, these pork chops are not only easy to prepare but also healthy, making them ideal for meal prepping or family dinners. Enjoy exploring these delicious recipes and don’t hesitate to tweak them to match your tastebuds!
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