Baked Pork Chop Recipe

Step 1

Place pork chops into a deep bowl with lid. Mix 3 tablespoons salt into 1 cup hot water, stirring to dissolve.  Add peppercorns.

Step 2

Pour salt solution plus another 2 cups water over chops. Add more water if needed to fully cover pork chops. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1/2 hour.

Step 3

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place oven-safe skillet into the preheated oven.  Make sure to use a large enough skillet to lay each pork chop flat, or use multiple skillets.

Step 4

Remove chops from brine solution, pat dry. Using a silicone pastry brush, brush chops with olive oil on both sides. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 5

Using oven mitts, remove skillets, place over high heat. Place chops into the hot pan(s), searing.  Don't poke or flip until chop releases itself from pan, about 3 minutes. It should be golden brown. Flip pork chops using tongs, immediately place in hot oven.

Step 6

Cook about 6 minutes or until the internal temperature reads 140- 145 degrees in the largest part of the chop. Don't overcook! Let chops rest 5-10 minutes before serving.