If you’re in the mood for a simple and delicious meal, these oven-baked barbecue pork chops are just what you need. They are juicy and packed with flavor, and you can easily make them with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having friends over, this recipe will impress everyone at the dinner table.
Why Make This Recipe
Barbecue pork chops are a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it is quick and easy to prepare. Plus, baking the pork chops in the oven helps keep them juicy and tender. With a flavorful spice rub and a tangy barbecue sauce, these pork chops are sure to become a family favorite.
How to Make Simple Oven-Baked Barbecue Pork Chops
Making oven-baked barbecue pork chops is simple. Follow these easy steps to whip up this tasty dish in no time.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick (6–8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or other neutral cooking oil)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika if you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar, lightly packed
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for mild heat)
- 3/4 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade), plus extra for serving
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Nonstick cooking spray or a little extra oil for the baking dish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and cayenne.
- Rub the pork chops with olive oil. Then, apply the spice mixture evenly over the chops.
- In another bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
- Place the seasoned pork chops in the baking dish and coat them with half of the sauce.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil, baste the chops with the remaining sauce, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with pan juices and extra barbecue sauce!
How to Serve Simple Oven-Baked Barbecue Pork Chops
Serve these delicious pork chops hot from the oven. Pair them with your favorite sides, like steamed vegetables, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes. Add some extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love.
How to Store Simple Oven-Baked Barbecue Pork Chops
If you have leftovers, let the pork chops cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the pork chops for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them well to keep them fresh.
Tips to Make Simple Oven-Baked Barbecue Pork Chops
- Make sure to pat your pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps the spices stick better.
- If you want a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika.
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork chops for a few hours or overnight in the barbecue sauce before baking.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by using different seasonings or barbecue sauces. Try adding a bit of honey to the sauce for a touch of sweetness or some chipotle powder for a spicy kick!
FAQs
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time since they may cook faster than bone-in chops.
How do I know when my pork chops are done?
Use a meat thermometer to check. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
Can I make this recipe on the grill instead?
Absolutely! You can grill the seasoned pork chops over medium heat for around 5-7 minutes on each side, basting with sauce as you grill.
Oven-Baked Barbecue Pork Chops
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and cayenne.
- Rub the pork chops with olive oil. Then, apply the spice mixture evenly over the chops.
- In another bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
- Place the seasoned pork chops in the baking dish and coat them with half of the sauce.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil, baste the chops with the remaining sauce, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.
