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A handheld smartphone photo showing the dark golden-brown sear of three Baked Pork Chops on a blue-gray plate.

Baked Pork Chops with a Smoky Paprika Rub and Fresh Lemon

Juicy, thick-cut bone-in Baked Pork Chops seared to a dark golden-brown with a smoky paprika rub and finished with fresh lemon. A perfectly balanced 25-minute dinner that is as stunning as it is delicious.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 3 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 pieces Bone-In Pork Chops 1 to 1.5 inches thick
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika 7g
  • 1 tsp Fine Sea Salt 6g
  • 1/2 tsp Cracked Black Pepper 2g
  • 2 tbsp Avocado Oil 30ml
  • 1/2 piece Fresh Lemon Cut into 3 semi-circles
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley 10g, finely chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Cast Iron Skillet Ensures the best golden-brown sear.
  • 1 Digital Meat Thermometer Used to reach exact 145°F internal temperature.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the three pork chops dry and apply the paprika, salt, and pepper rub to both sides, pressing firmly.
  2. Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high. Once shimmering, sear the chops for 3-4 minutes until a dark golden-brown crust forms. Flip.
  3. Place lemon slices on each chop and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 5-8 minutes until internal temp reaches 140°F (60°C).
  4. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. The temperature will rise to 145°F (63°C). Scatter fresh parsley over the top before serving on a blue-gray plate.

Notes

Always use a digital thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Bone-in chops provide much better flavor and juiciness than boneless.