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Sweet & Smoky Easy Baked Pork Chops

by Lindsay Cotter · 01/23/2022

GFDairy FreeLow Carb
Jump to Recipe
★★★★★ 4.8 from 5 reviews
Pinterest image for spice rubbed easy baked pork chops

This Easy Baked Pork Chops recipe is bursting with sweet and smoky flavor for a 30 minute meal you’ll love. Seasoned with a variety of spices, they’re the tastiest oven baked boneless pork chops you’ll ever make! Whole30 option. 

cinnamon chipotle spice rubbed pork chop sliced into pieces on a white plate with roasted carrots and parsnips on the side with a fork and lemons and herbs for garnish

The 3rd and final edition to our healing spices week! These Sweet & Smoky Easy Baked Pork Chops are part of our Restorative Health Series, meaning they are made with anti-inflammatory spices to nourish the body, reduce inflammation, and more.

Why You’ll Love these Pork Chops

Who doesn’t love a one-pan recipe? Honestly, they’re lifesavers when it comes to making nourishing meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, from Superfood Baked Salmon, to Persian Spiced Pan Roasted Chicken, and this Mexican Quinoa Skillet Dinner, there’s something to fit everyone’s needs! However, while these recipes are all great and definitely guaranteed to please a crowd, I’ve noticed that I don’t often see many one-pan pork chop options. 

So, I decided to change that by creating an  Easy Baked Pork Chops recipe with roasted vegetables! After all, often overlooked, pork is a fairly lean meat and is typically very budget-friendly, making it great for family dinners and meal prep.

Not to mention, with these oven baked boneless pork chops you’ll be in and out of the chicken in 30 minutes! However, that’s not the only reason you’re going to love this recipe. They’re also: 

  • Made with spices you probably already have in your pantry
  • Suitable for both bone-in and boneless pork chops
  • Lower carb, gluten free, and grain free 
  • The perfect combination of sweet and spicy flavors for a meal that makes it easy to eat your veggies!

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking! 

Pork Chop Seasoning Secret 

The secret to making the best baked pork chops is in the spice rub! Unlike other versions that mask the flavor of the meat with mushroom gravy and sauces, this recipe enhances the flavor with natural spices. Using notes of sweet cinnamon, smoked paprika, and spicy chili powder, the ingredients work together to create an element of heat and a smoky flavor without overwhelming your tastebuds. Don’t worry, though! The rub comes together in just a few seconds with spices you likely already have on hand! 

homemade cinnamon chipotle spice rub in a small bowl
Pro Tip

Baking Tip: Double or triple the spice rub to have a batch on hand for pork chops, chicken, salmon, and veggies! 

Ingredients for Baked Boneless Pork Chops

The ingredients for these easy baked pork chops are broken down into two parts. First, you’ll need to create your spice rub. Then, you’ll gather the rest of the ingredients to finish the meal! 

For the Spice Rub

  • Coconut Sugar (or raw sugar)
  • Ground Chili Powder (or chipotle chili powder)
  • Cinnamon 
  • Garlic Powder
  • Onion Powder
  • Smoked Paprika
  • Dried Oregano
  • Sea Salt
  • Black Pepper
Pro Tip

Note: For a Whole30 option, omit the sugar altogether.

For the Pan

  • Parsnips – Root vegetables that are part of the parsley family, parsnips are packed with vitamins and nutrients including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
  • Carrots – Carrots provide a good source of vitamin A, B vitamins, and potassium.
  • Boneless Pork Chops – While being tasty, pork chops provide protein, selenium, zinc, and iron.
close up image of chopped and roasted coarrots and parsnips to pair with easy baked pork chops
  • Herbs and Spices – I used lemon slices, parsley, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. 

How to Make the Best Baked Pork Chops

How to Season 

Before you start baking, it’s important to properly season your pork chops. Don’t just sprinkle the spice rub over the meat, though! Instead, use a towel to pat the pork chops dry. Then, season both sides of the chops well, making sure they are completely coated. To make sure the spice sticks to the pork, use your fingers to press it into the meat. 

Temperature: 400 degrees Fahrenheit

Duration: 30 minutes 

Step-By-Step Instructions

Take a look below to learn how to make the best pork chop rub and bake them with ease! 

cinnamon chipotle spice rubbed pork chop sliced into pieces on a white plate with roasted carrots and parsnips on the side with a fork and lemons and herbs for garnish
  • Mix and Preheat. To begin, combine the spice rub seasonings in a small bowl. Then, preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Roast. Slice the parsnips and carrots into ½ inch pieces, and toss them in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 teaspoons of the spice rub mixture before layering them on a lined baking sheet. Roast the veggies for 15 minutes.
  • Sear. While the veggies are baking, season each pork chop in the spice rub, and place them in a pan with 1 tablespoon of oil. Sear the pork on medium-high heat for 2-4 minutes, making sure to flip them once halfway through searing. 
Pro Tip

Baking Tip: Don’t skip searing the meat! It locks in the pork chop rub and creates a crust on the outside, locking in the moisture and creating juicy pork chops.

  • Bake. Once seared, place the pork chops on the baking sheet with the parsnips and carrots, and bake them both for another 6-8 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Then let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. 160 degrees Fahrenheit is well done. Here’s a great cooking temperature chart for pork.
  • Garnish. Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven, and garnish with lemon slices, fresh parsley, and optional red pepper flakes. 

Tips for Tender Pork Chops

A common problem I hear when it comes to making easy baked pork chops is that they tend to dry out. Luckily, there are a few simple tips to make sure you get juicy pork chops every single time! 

Use Thick Pork Chops. For the best results, use pork chops that are at least 1-inch thick to prevent them from drying out while cooking. 

close up image of sliced cinnamon chipotle easy baked pork chops on a plate with a fork on the side

Use High Heat. Ensuring that your pan is hot before adding the pork chops will guarantee that the outsides sear within a few minutes, locking in the moisture. However, if the pan is not hot enough, you run the risk of overcooking your meat. 

Pro Tip

Pro-Tip: To make sure your pan is hot, try flicking a bit of water onto it from your fingers. If the water sizzles, your pan is ready. 

Rest the Meat. Once your pork chops are removed from the oven, let them rest for 3 – 5 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, preventing them from running out. 

Don’t Overcook. The most common reason pork chops turn out dry is that they are overcooked. Be sure to keep an eye on your meat, and pull it from the oven as soon as it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees or 150 degrees Fahrenheit as it will continue to cook after being removed. 

Common Questions

Should I bake my boneless pork chops covered or uncovered? 

Due to the high temperatures being used, it is not necessary to cover your pork chops while baking. However, for recipes that require lower temperatures and longer baking times, it may be a good idea to cover your baked pork chops with foil. 

Can I air fry these pork chops?  

I haven’t personally tried to air fry this recipe, but it should work! Follow a similar technique used for Air Fryer Lamb Chops. Just keep an eye on your pork chops and adjust the baking time as needed. Also, if you want to air fry the vegetables, too. You’ll need to make them in batches to ensure everything cooks completely. 

Are Pork Chops Healthy? 

While no food is inherently healthy or unhealthy, pork chops offer several important vitamins and nutrients such as selenium, zinc, and iron along with being a good source of protein. For the best option, use human raised pork whenever possible. Also, for the leanest cut of pork, opt for pork loin or pork chops. 

overhead image of spice rubbed easy baked pork chop cut into pieces

How to Storage Your Chops

Fridge: Stored in an airtight container, easy baked pork chops (and the roasted veggies) will stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. 

Freezer: wrapped tightly in aluminum foil and stored in an airtight container, frozen baked pork chops can be kept in the freezer for 2-3 months. 

Pro Tip

Baking Tip: To reheat your pork chops, first let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, add them to an oven-safe pan along with about 2 tablespoons of water or broth, cover the pan with foil, and bake the pork chops for 10 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or until the desired temperature is reached. 

Prep

More One-Pan Meals

The great thing about these oven baked boneless pork chops is that they’re made along with veggies for a complete meal! If you’re looking for more one-pan meals try a few of my favorites including: 

  • Honey Mustard Chicken with Brussels Sprouts (Sheet Pan)
  • Sweet and Spicy Broiled Shrimp (Sheet Pan Meal)
  • Reader Favorite: “Superfood” Baked Salmon
Print
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cinnamon chipotle spice rubbed pork chop sliced into pieces on a white plate with roasted carrots and parsnips on the side with a fork and lemons and herbs for garnish

Spice Rubbed Easy Baked Pork Chops


★★★★★

4.8 from 5 reviews

  • Author: Lindsay Cotter
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe
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Description

Seasoned with a homemade smoky spice rub, these easy baked pork chops are combined with roasted vegetables for a sheet pan dinner ready in 30 minutes! Whole30 Option.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Rub:

  • 1 Tablespoon coconut sugar or raw sugar (See notes for Whole30 option)
  • 1 teaspoon ground chili powder or chipotle chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Pinch of dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Pan:

  • 2 large parsnips (7 – 8 inches long), cut into 1/2 inch slices
  • 2 large carrots (7 – 8 inches long), cut into 1/2 inch slices
  • 2 –3 Tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 1/2 pounds of boneless pork chops or pork loin (around 4 boneless pork chops ) (See notes for other meat options)
  • To garnish: lemon slices and fresh herbs (Ex: parsley or cilantro)
  • Salt/Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine the ingredients for the spice rub in a small bowl, and set it aside.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Slice the parsnips and carrots into ½ inch pieces, and toss them in 2 Tablespoons of olive oil and 2 teaspoons of the spice rub seasoning. 
  4. Lay the parsnips and carrots flat on the prepared baking sheet, and roast them in the oven for 15 minutes. 
  5. While the veggies are cooking, generously season each piece of pork with the spice rub. 
  6. Place each pork chop in the pan with 1 Tablespoon of oil. Sear them on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through. 
  7. Remove the pork chops from the heat, and place them on the baking sheet with the vegetables. 
  8. Place the baking sheet back in the oven for an additional 6-8 minutes or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. 
  9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven, and let the chops rest for 3-5 minutes.
  10. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley, if desired. Season to taste. 

Notes

Looking for a pork alternative? Use lamb chops instead.

If using bone-in pork chops, reduce the searing and baking time.

Omit the sugar for a Whole30 option.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chop
  • Calories: 247
  • Sugar: 6.6
  • Fat: 7
  • Saturated Fat: 2
  • Carbohydrates: 13.6
  • Fiber: 3.5
  • Protein: 25

Keywords: one pan meals, paleo, gluten free, dairy free, low carb, pork, sheet pan, one pan, dinner, meal prep

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @cottercrunch on Instagram and hashtag it #cottercrunch

Sweet, spicy, and super quick, these easy baked pork chops are one of my favorite recipes for nights when I’m in a pinch for time and need a nourishing meal on the table fast! If you make them, too, I would love it if you let me know in the comments below! 

Cheers, 

LC 

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Categories: Dairy Free, Egg Free, Gluten Free, Grain Free, Low Carb, Main Dishes, Nut Free, Oven, Whole 30 Tags: dairy free, gluten free, gluten free dinner, kid friendly, low carb, main course, main dish, one pan, one pan meal, paleo, pork, pork chops, seasoning, sheet pan meals, spices, whole30

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Lindsay Cotter of Cotter Crunch

Hi, y'all, I’m Lindsay Cotter, a Nutrition Specialist with a focus on Gluten Free eating. I love creating delicious nourishing food that anyone can enjoy.

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    Recipe rating ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆ ★☆

  1. cathy says

    02/02/2022 at 7:55 AM

    The spices for this dish are on point. This was absolutely wonderful.

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  2. wilhelmina says

    02/01/2022 at 6:28 PM

    Chipotle is such a great flavor with pork. These pork chops are the perfect example. We savored every bite!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
  3. Heather Rose says

    02/01/2022 at 12:33 PM

    SO easy to make! We love chipotle, thank you for this recipe!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Lindsay Cotter says

      02/01/2022 at 6:15 PM

      so glad it worked out!

      Reply
  4. Belle says

    09/24/2019 at 6:55 PM

    Love the spices Lindsay, especially the cinnamon and chipotle… and such a super easy recipe! This is our favourite pork dish which I now cook every week, and just happen to be cooking right now. Yum! I can hardly wait. It’s so tasty! Thank you!

    ★★★★★

    Reply
    • Lindsay Cotter says

      09/25/2019 at 10:44 PM

      Thank you Belle! Always appreciate that feedback. <3

      Reply
  5. Cinnamon Zone says

    01/15/2018 at 11:34 PM

    This is definitely a recipe to cook for family and friends. The pork looks succulent and tender. Also the spice coating around the pork is so mouth-watering. I like the fact that you have used carrots and parsnips which not only give the dish color but also by being roasted provided a deep rich flavor.

    Reply
    • Lindsay Cotter says

      12/19/2018 at 2:08 AM

      I agree! All the good stuff in there 😉

      Reply
  6. Christina says

    12/08/2017 at 12:13 PM

    Yasss! I’m a creature of habit so I tend to make the same chicken recipes over and over again. I’m always on the lookout for new pork recipes and this one looks amazing! Pinning for later!

    Reply
  7. Melissa Griffiths says

    10/21/2017 at 7:36 PM

    Food is definitely my love language. So much time and focus and effort put into it and it’s something everyone loves. <3

    Reply
    • Cotter Crunch says

      10/22/2017 at 8:45 AM

      I so agree friend. This is why I love this season!

      Reply
  8. Heather S Christo says

    10/13/2017 at 6:03 PM

    SOOOO delicious! I love the cinnamon addition!

    Reply
  9. Gaby Dalkin says

    10/11/2017 at 7:48 PM

    Cinnamon AND chipotle…WOWZA!!

    Reply
  10. Erin says

    10/09/2017 at 4:57 PM

    This is definitely a time to hold loved ones close, and gathering around this dinner is the perfect way to start.

    Reply
  11. Bettie says

    10/09/2017 at 4:16 PM

    Made this last night for my very picky family and the all LOVED it, it will now be part of the rotation. I myself am not a fan of pork but will gladly eat this again. The veggies were subbed with squash and zucchini since that is what was on hand and it was still amazing. Used the leftovers in a salad for lunch today.

    Reply
    • Cotter Crunch says

      10/09/2017 at 8:33 PM

      Oh I’m so glad Bettie! It’s a fav of ours. You can also make with lamb chops if you don’t like pork that much. ❤️

      Reply
  12. Maria says

    10/09/2017 at 2:49 PM

    Great dinner idea!

    Reply
  13. Liz @ Floating Kitchen says

    10/09/2017 at 11:25 AM

    It’s been a rough couple of weeks, with so many families experiencing tragedies, terror, etc. I feel at a loss, too. But cooking comfort food, and sharing it and telling people that you care about them, always helps. Love this cozy meal. I don’t make pork chops nearly enough!

    Reply
  14. Lexi says

    10/09/2017 at 9:36 AM

    This is so freaking gorgeous Linds!

    Reply
  15. Cory D. says

    10/09/2017 at 9:03 AM

    It’s been a while since I’ve cooked pork chops. I’ve always found them somewhat bland.

    That’s look like a great recipe to try to incorporate them back onto our menu.

    Reply
  16. Katie says

    10/08/2017 at 7:48 AM

    This looks amazing— I will BE making this, just will change up the protein 😉 Making this week– another batch of sweet potato PIE <3

    Reply
    • Cotter Crunch says

      10/08/2017 at 8:54 AM

      oh yay! keep me posted. and love the pie!

      Reply
  17. Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table says

    10/06/2017 at 9:57 PM

    I’m still so upset. Vegas and I are barely even sleeping these days. I want to do something… but I have no idea what, beyond writing my blog post and then every representative I can!

    Food is a good idea though. Food is love. xo

    Reply
    • Cotter Crunch says

      10/07/2017 at 9:26 AM

      I know. I;m so sorry friend. I wish we could all help someway. I truly am thinking of ways. In the meantime, hugs and love you!

      Reply
      • Brendan says

        04/27/2022 at 7:22 AM

        Tasty recipe, but please don’t cook your pork chops to 165 F.

        145 F with a 3-minute rest will yield safe and juicy pork.

        ★★★★

        Reply
        • Lindsay Cotter says

          04/27/2022 at 4:19 PM

          You are so right! That might have been a typo for 145-160F range. We just updated this recipe with thicker chops. I will definitely make that note. Thanks for calling it to our attention.

          Reply
  18. Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious says

    10/06/2017 at 1:15 PM

    Amen to healing with food love! Too much scary stuff going on in this world.

    Reply
    • Cotter Crunch says

      10/07/2017 at 9:35 AM

      I know friend. so sad. <3 you!

      Reply
  19. Emily Swanson says

    10/06/2017 at 12:28 PM

    Truly truly treasure that you reminded us that we can love on others with good food and fellowship in a world where there is so much hurt. I have to remind myself that God first loved me and so many others, so I can love them. I love how you create such a warm atmosphere of love and kindness you share on your blog around all the recipes you create; there is so much of you that goes into each recipe, and it really shows Lindsay.

    Reply
  20. Natasha @ Salt & Lavender says

    10/05/2017 at 8:40 PM

    This has been quite the awful week, I have to say. It’s exhausting. Comfort food (like this) is so needed!!

    Reply
  21. Matt Robinson says

    10/05/2017 at 11:18 AM

    What an awesome one pan meal full of flavor, love this!

    Reply
    • Cotter Crunch says

      10/05/2017 at 1:17 PM

      for sure! YOu’d love this Matt!

      Reply
  22. Mary Ann | The Beach House Kitchen says

    10/05/2017 at 10:30 AM

    Such a sad and emotional week Lindsay. So happy your friends are ok. Meals like this one are so comforting. I love that tasty, spicy rub and that this is a one pan meal. As usual, your photos are stunning and making me incredibly hungry!

    Reply
    • Cotter Crunch says

      10/05/2017 at 1:18 PM

      Truly. I think we all just need a week to be with loved ones and support others.

      Reply
  23. Jennifer @ Show Me the Yummy says

    10/05/2017 at 9:48 AM

    I don’t make pork chops nearly enough!!

    Reply

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Lindsay Cotter of Cotter Crunch

Hi, y'all, I’m Lindsay Cotter, a Nutrition Specialist with a focus on Gluten Free eating. I love creating delicious nourishing food that anyone can enjoy.

About · Studio · Shop · Contact
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