Baked Pork Chop for One – Easy and Juicy Oven-Baked Pork Chop Recipe. This simple pork chop recipe uses smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper for bold flavor. Perfect for a quick solo dinner, this oven-baked pork chop stays tender and juicy with minimal prep. Ideal for weeknight meals, healthy cooking, and fast protein-packed recipes. Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients (US & Metric)
- 1 boneless pork chop (½-inch thick)
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a small baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Rub the olive oil evenly over both sides of the pork chop.
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the pork chop.
- Place the pork chop on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork chop from the oven, cover with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked pork chop is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor thanks to a simple yet delicious seasoning blend. It’s quick to make, perfect for a solo meal, and requires minimal cleanup.
Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chop is perfectly cooked without drying out.
- Letting the meat rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the pork chop moist.
- Thin pork chops may require less cooking time, so check for doneness early.
Variations and Substitutions
- Spices: Swap smoked paprika for chili powder or cumin for a different flavor profile.
- Oil: Use avocado or vegetable oil instead of olive oil.
- Pork Chop: Bone-in chops can be used but may need a few extra minutes to cook.
FAQs
Q: Can I marinate the pork chop?
A: Yes! A quick 30-minute marinade with olive oil, garlic, and herbs enhances flavor.
Q: Can I cook this in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: How do I know when it’s done?
A: The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe and juicy pork.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your baked pork chop with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Baked Pork Chop for One
1
servings5
minutes15
minutesIngredients
1 1 boneless pork chop (½-inch thick)
½ tablespoon olive oil
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
⅛ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a small baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Rub the olive oil evenly over both sides of the pork chop.
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the pork chop.
- Place the pork chop on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Remove the pork chop from the oven, cover with foil, and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
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