How to Cook 1-Inch Thick Pork Chops in the Oven for Perfectly Juicy Results

Cooking 1-inch thick pork chops in the oven results in juicy flavorful meat with a beautifully caramelized exterior crust. The key is using the right method to ensure the chops cook through without drying out.

Follow this simple guide to bake 1-inch thick pork chops to tender, mouthwatering perfection every time

Benefits of Baking Thick Pork Chops

There are several advantages to baking pork chops that are 1 inch or thicker

• Thicker chops stay juicier – Less chance of overcooking compared to thin chops.

• More flavorful – Develops more browned, caramelized exterior.

• Holds seasonings better – Rubs and marinades penetrate into the meat.

• Impressive presentation – Hearty, impressive-looking chops.

• Versatile – Pairs well with many meals and sides.

With the right techniques, thick pork chops baked in the oven are hard to beat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To bake 1-inch thick pork chops, you’ll need:

• Boneless or bone-in pork chops, 1 inch thick
• Olive oil, avocado oil, or butter
• Salt, pepper, and spice rub ingredients
• Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (optional)
• Chicken or vegetable broth or wine (for baking pan)

Essential Equipment

Equipment needed includes:

• Rimmed baking sheet
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper
• Instant-read thermometer

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking

Follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Chops

Rinse chops and pat completely dry with paper towels. Trim off excess fat or connective tissue.

2. Apply Dry Rub

Coat chops all over with olive oil or butter, then apply a dry spice rub. Suggestions: garlic powder, paprika, oregano, cumin, brown sugar.

3. Allow to Rest at Room Temp

Let seasoned chops sit out for 20-30 minutes to warm up before baking. This helps them cook more quickly and evenly.

4. Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 425°F. Use a center rack position.

5. Quickly Sear the Chops (Optional)

For deeper flavor, sear chops for 1-2 minutes per side in a hot skillet first.

6. Arrange Chops on Prepared Baking Sheet

Place chops on a foil or parchment-lined baking sheet. Add 1/2 cup broth or wine to the sheet.

7. Bake Uncovered

Bake at 425°F for time specified below based on thickness.

8. Check Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to test doneness when estimated bake time is reached. pork should reach 140-145°F internally.

9. Let Rest Before Serving

Remove chops from oven, tent with foil, and let rest 5 minutes to retain juices.

How Long to Bake 1-Inch Thick Pork Chops

For 1-inch thick chops, the estimated baking times are:

• Bone-in – Bake at 425°F for 18-20 minutes.

• Boneless – Bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes.

Always use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness rather than relying solely on time. Cook to 140-145°F internal temperature.

Follow the visual signs of doneness, like lightly browned exterior and slight pull back from the bone. Check early at 15 minutes, then continue checking every few minutes until done.

How to Tell When Chops Are Fully Cooked

Check for these signs your 1-inch thick pork chops are fully cooked:

• Internal temperature reads 140-145°F on meat thermometer
• Outside is browned and spices/rubs are crispy
• Meat feels firm yet tender when pressed
• Juices run clear when poked with a fork

The chops are ready when the center is just slightly pink and the meat reaches the target internal temperature.

Let Pork Rest Before Serving

After baking, tent the chops with foil and allow to rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to reabsorb back into the meat.

Slice and serve pork chops warm with pan juices drizzled over the top. Enjoy with roasted vegetables, scalloped potatoes, fresh salad, or your favorite sides.

Additional Tips for Juicy Baked Chops

• Pat chops very dry before seasoning to help browning
• Use a hot 425°F oven and broil the last 1-2 minutes if needed
• Brine chops for 1-2 hours before baking for added moisture and flavor
• Avoid overcrowding chops in the oven
• Bake on a rack set in a sheet pan rather than directly on the pan

With these simple instructions, you’ll achieve tender and delicious oven-baked 1-inch thick pork chops every time. The key is using an accurate meat thermometer and avoiding overcooking.

Now grab your favorite rub, preheat the oven, and let’s get baking some marvelously juicy thick pork chops!