Introduction
BBQ pork chops are a crowd-pleasing dinner option that can be made easily at home. By baking the chops in the oven, you can achieve that charred, saucy BBQ flavor without having to grill outdoors. This method requires only a few simple ingredients and results in juicy, flavorful pork chops with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce glaze.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make delicious bbq pork chops in the oven.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Directions
Season the Pork Chops
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chops. Use your fingers to gently rub the spices into the meat.
Roast the Chops
- Place the seasoned pork chops on a foil-lined baking sheet. Make sure the chops are not touching.
- Roast for 15 minutes. Flip the chops over and roast for 10 more minutes.
Glaze the Chops
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Brush the tops of the chops liberally with barbecue sauce.
- Place the chops back in the oven and roast for 5 more minutes. The sauce should bubble and caramelize slightly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
FAQs about Making BBQ Pork Chops in the Oven
What type of pork works best?
Bone-in, center cut pork chops that are about 1-inch thick work very well. The bone helps keep the meat juicy and adds extra flavor. Look for chops with visible marbling or streaks of fat for extra moistness.
Can I use boneless pork chops?
You can use boneless chops, but keep a close eye on the cooking time. Boneless chops cook faster since they are thinner. Reduce initial cook time by 2-3 minutes.
What barbecue sauce is best?
Use your favorite prepared barbecue sauce or make your own. Sweet tomato-based sauces complement the pork flavor nicely. For bolder flavor, try a smoky, spicy or tangy sauce.
Should I flip the chops while roasting?
Yes, flipping the chops halfway through ensures even cooking. It also allows you to glaze both sides with sauce for maximum coverage and caramelization.
Can I broil instead of roasting?
Broiling will work, but keep a close watch to avoid over-charring. Broiling cooks faster than roasting. Reduce cooking times by 2-3 minutes if broiling.
How do I know when they’re done?
The chops are fully cooked when they register 145°F on a meat thermometer. The meat should be just slightly pink inside. Let rest 5 minutes before cutting for best results.
Conclusion
Making bbq pork chops in the oven is an easy way to put a flavorful dinner on the table any night of the week. With just a few pantry staples and seasonings, you can achieve tasty oven-baked chops coated in sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. Roasting develops fantastic flavor while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Adjust the spices to your taste and try different sauce flavors for endless variety. Serve bbq pork chops alongside freshly baked cornbread, a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal.