Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! These oven-baked veal chops are the perfect solution for a quick weeknight meal that will impress your family and friends. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe focuses on simple flavors and minimal fuss, resulting in juicy, tender veal chops every time. It's the perfect blend of homemade cooking and effortless preparation, making it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 4 veal chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Veal Chops
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the veal chops dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Veal Chops
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the veal chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step develops a delicious crust and locks in the juices.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) into the skillet. Add the lemon juice and rosemary sprigs. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the veal chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Basting the chops halfway through with the pan juices will ensure even cooking and extra flavor.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the veal chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. During this resting period, stir in the butter to create a luscious pan sauce. Spoon the sauce over the veal chops and garnish with extra rosemary sprigs, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Veal Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the veal chops in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Use an oven-safe thermometer: This guarantees perfectly cooked veal chops every time.
- Let the meat rest: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices.
Variations:
- Lemon-Herb Veal Chops: Add more lemon zest and a mix of fresh herbs like thyme and oregano.
- Garlic-Parmesan Veal Chops: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the chops before baking.
- Mushroom Veal Chops: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the veal chops during the searing process.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 300-350
- Protein: Around 30-35g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
This easy recipe for oven veal chops provides a healthy and delicious meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of juicy veal, flavorful herbs, and a rich pan sauce creates a truly satisfying culinary experience. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the versatility of veal, making it a great addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy!