Tired of complicated recipes and endless cleanup? Craving a delicious and healthy meal that’s ready in under an hour? Then look no further! This recipe for pork chops in an oven bag is your new weeknight dinner hero. It's quick, easy, and delivers juicy, flavorful pork chops every single time. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking without the hassle! This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and busy weeknights alike, offering a healthy and delicious meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 (1 ounce) package dry onion soup mix
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 large oven bag
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet. This is important to prevent sticking.
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Season the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. This simple seasoning elevates the flavor of the pork chops.
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Assemble in the Oven Bag: Place the sliced onion in the bottom of the oven bag. Arrange the seasoned pork chops on top of the onions.
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Add Flavor: Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix evenly over the pork chops. Pour the chicken broth into the bag.
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Seal & Bake: Carefully close the oven bag with the provided tie. Cut a few small slits in the top of the bag to allow steam to escape. Place the bag on the prepared baking sheet.
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Oven Time: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops.
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Rest & Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the oven bag from the oven (be cautious of steam!). Let the pork chops rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
Tips for Perfect Pork Chops:
- Don't overcrowd the bag: Ensure there's enough space between the pork chops for even cooking. If necessary, use two oven bags.
- Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork chops are cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Rosemary, sage, or paprika would all be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Apple Cider Pork Chops: Substitute apple cider for the chicken broth and add 1/2 cup of diced apples to the bag for a sweet and savory twist.
- Creamy Mushroom Pork Chops: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms and 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the bag during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Pork Chops: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This recipe for oven bag pork chops provides a delicious and easy weeknight meal option. Its quick preparation time and minimal cleanup make it perfect for busy schedules. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish, and don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations with us! Remember to always check the internal temperature of your meat to ensure it’s cooked safely. Happy cooking!