Easy Oven Braised French Onion Pork Chops

If you're looking for a comforting meal packed with rich flavors, these Easy Oven Braised French Onion Pork Chops are just what you need. This dish brings together tender, juicy pork chops with the savory, caramelized goodness of French onions, all cooked to perfection in the oven. The best part? It's simple to prepare but tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight family dinner or entertaining guests, these braised pork chops are sure to impress.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you'll need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Here's what to gather:

4 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter flavor)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops

Begin by seasoning the pork chops generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Rub the spices onto both sides to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Step 2: Brown the Pork Chops

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter melts, sear the pork chops for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Caramelize the Onions

Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and toss in the sliced onions. Cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they're soft and caramelized, about 12-15 minutes. Add the minced garlic in the last 2 minutes of cooking to avoid burning.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Once the onions are caramelized, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over them (if you prefer a thicker sauce) and stir well. Slowly pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the Worcestershire sauce and stir to combine. The sauce should be rich and aromatic.

Step 5: Braise in the Oven

Return the pork chops to the skillet, nestling them into the onion mixture. Spoon some of the sauce over each chop. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil. Place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and braise for 35-40 minutes, or until the pork chops are tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should read 145°F).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the skillet from the oven and garnish the dish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve the pork chops hot with the caramelized onions and sauce spooned over the top.

Serving Suggestions

These French Onion Braised Pork Chops pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. If you're aiming for lighter sides, roasted green beans or a crisp garden salad complement the dish perfectly.

Tips for Best Results

Choose the Right Pork Chops: Bone-in chops tend to stay juicier during braising, but boneless works too for easier cutting and eating.
Take Your Time with the Onions: Don't rush the caramelization process; this step adds depth and sweetness to the sauce.
Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you'd like a thicker gravy, don't skip the flour step, but you can also thicken the sauce on the stovetop post-braising if needed.
Customizing the Seasoning: Love herbs? Add a bay leaf or a sprinkle of rosemary while the dish braises for a more rustic flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap the Protein: This recipe works just as well with chicken thighs or even beef steaks. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a velvety twist on the sauce.
Add Cheese: Top each pork chop with a slice of Gruyère cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking for a truly "French onion" experience.
Go Gluten-Free: Omit the flour entirely or use a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

These Easy Oven Braised French Onion Pork Chops are everything you want in a home-cooked meal—comforting, flavorful, and simple to make! Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised when it quickly becomes a household favorite. Enjoy!

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