How to Bake Juicy, Flavorful Boneless Pork Loin Chops in the Oven

Boneless pork loin chops make for an easy, delicious dinner option that can be on the table in under 30 minutes With just a few basic ingredients and steps, you’ll have tender, juicy oven-baked pork chops everyone will love

In this comprehensive guide we’ll go over everything you need to know to bake boneless pork loin chops to perfection, including

• Selecting the Best Boneless Chops
• Prepping and Seasoning the Meat
• Baking Temperature and Cook Time
• Getting the Doneness Just Right
• Letting the Chops Rest
• Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to bake irresistible boneless pork loin chops in the oven.

Selecting High-Quality Boneless Chops

To start, you want to choose high-quality boneless pork loin chops at the grocery store. Here’s what to look for:

• Go Thick – Choose chops at least 1 inch thick. Thinner ones overcook too quickly.

• Get Center Cut – Center cut chops are the most tender and evenly shaped.

• Pick Uniform Chops – Uniform sizing promotes even cooking.

• Estimate Amount – Figure 3-4 chops per person. Buy 1-1.5 pounds total.

Lean, thick, center-cut boneless chops are ideal candidates for oven baking.

Prepping and Seasoning the Chops

Before cooking, we want to prep and season the pork chops:

• Pat Dry – Use paper towels to dry chops well on both sides. Removes excess moisture.

• Coat with Oil – Brush lightly with olive oil or avocado oil. Helps browning.

• Generously Season – Apply a flavorful dry rub. Use garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, and pepper.

• Massage In – Press seasoning evenly into chops so it sticks.

Take the time to properly prep and season the pork chops for the best oven-baked flavor.

Baking Temperature and Cook Time

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

Follow these tips when baking:

• Arrange in Single Layer – Place chops spaced apart on the pan so they don’t overlap.

• Bake at 425°F – Cook for 15-20 minutes until lightly browned on the outside.

• Check Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to monitor doneness. Remove at 145°F.

• Let Rest 5 Minutes – Allow chops to rest before slicing and serving.

The high heat helps the exterior get nice and crisp while the inside gently cooks through. Watch closely at the end to prevent overcooking.

Getting the Doneness Just Right

Since boneless pork chops are lean, it’s crucial not to overcook them or they’ll dry out. Follow these tips:

• Use Thick Chops – At least 1 inch thick provides more leeway for doneness.

• Cook at High Heat – 425°F sears the outside to seal in moisture.

• Check Temperature – 145°F is ideal, use a thermometer for accuracy.

• Allow Carryover Cooking – Meat will continue cooking after removal from oven.

• Don’t Overcook – Dry, tough chops result from cooking past 150°F.

Monitoring temperature and preventing overcooking is key for moist, tender results.

Letting the Chops Rest

After baking, it’s important to let the chops rest:

• Lightly Tent with Foil – Keep chops warm for best moisture retention.

• Allow 5-10 Minutes – Gives juices time to redistribute back into meat.

• Temperature Will Rise – Carryover cooking increases temp around 5°F.

• Prevents Dryness – Skipping this step causes juices to leak out.

Resting helps ensure your baked chops stay tender and juicy when you go to eat them.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Baked pork loin chops pair well with:

• Potatoes – Mashed, baked, roasted, fried or au gratin

• Vegetables – Roasted veggies, greens, or a fresh salad

• Grains – Rice, pasta, quinoa or couscous

• Breads – Dinner rolls, biscuits or corn bread

• Fruits – Applesauce, roasted apples/pears or fresh berries

A pan sauce, chimichurri, or salsa verde are also excellent finishes.

Tips for the Best Baked Boneless Chops

Follow these tips for perfect oven-baked boneless pork loin chops every time:

• Bring chops to room temperature before baking for more even cooking.

• Use a digital thermometer to eliminate guesswork and prevent overcooking.

• Immediately tent with foil after baking to preserve juices during resting period.

• Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the seasoning rub for an extra flavor boost.

• Thinner chops will cook faster – start checking temperature after 10 minutes.

Now you have all the tools to bake irresistible boneless pork loin chops! Juicy, tender and packed with flavor, this easy oven method delivers perfect results. Give it a try and let us know how your chops turn out. Enjoy!