Thin Pork Chops in the Oven: Cooking Time and Temperature Guide

Today we cover how long to cook thin pork chops in the oven with a light breading. If you prefer thicker cuts, see our guide on how to cook thick pork chops. Thin chops cook quickly and, when prepared correctly, stay tender and juicy.

Thin Pork Chops in Oven

This recipe uses a light breading. If you prefer a dry rub only, you can follow the same cooking times but skip the breadcrumbs for a different texture. Thinner pork chops will often be more tender and cook faster. You can buy them pre-pounded or pound them yourself between plastic wrap or parchment with a meat mallet.

Work from the center of the thickest part outward so the chop thins and spreads evenly. This method works best with boneless pork chops.

Ingredient Notes

This recipe makes about four servings using boneless pork chops. If you want to cook bone-in chops, use a recipe and timing suited for that cut. For this method you’ll need thin, boneless chops.

• 4 thin boneless pork chops
• 1/3 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4–6 tbsp Italian breadcrumbs

Use a shallow plate to combine and coat the chops in the breadcrumb mixture. A ready-made shake-and-bake mix will also work and won’t change the timing.

How to Cook Thin Pork Chops

Season lightly and coat with breadcrumbs if you want a crispy exterior. If you prefer no breading, skip the crumbs and simply season the chops. The key is to avoid overcooking — thin pork chops can dry out quickly and become tough. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check doneness and remove the chops when they reach the correct temperature.

Thin Boneless Pork Chop Recipe

Preheat the oven to 380°F (193°C). If your chops are not yet thin, place them on a cutting board, cover with plastic wrap or parchment, and pound evenly with a meat mallet until flattened. This helps them cook quickly and consistently.

• Cover each chop with plastic wrap or parchment and pound on both sides until thin.
• Mix salt, garlic powder, paprika and breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl.
• Brush the chops with a little olive oil, then press each side into the breadcrumb mixture until coated.
• Ensure both sides are evenly covered so the crust browns uniformly in the oven.

Boneless Pork Chops in Oven

Line a baking sheet with nonstick foil or lightly brush with olive oil. Arrange the chops in a single layer without overlapping. Bake at 380°F for 10 minutes, flip, then bake an additional 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Let the chops rest a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

How to Cut Thin Pork Chops

Use a sharp knife for clean slices and to avoid tearing the meat. Slice across the grain to make the pieces easier to chew and more tender. Pat the chops dry first, stabilize them on a cutting board, and make smooth even strokes rather than a sawing motion.

1. Thaw and pat dry if previously frozen.
2. Place the chop on a stable cutting board.
3. Identify the direction of the meat fibers and slice perpendicular to the grain.
4. Cut in one smooth motion for the best texture.

Oven Baked Thin Pork Chops

Bake at 375–380°F until the interior is no longer pink and juices run clear, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Serve with simple sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or biscuits prepared on a separate sheet while the chops finish cooking.

How to bake thin pork chops without drying them out

Follow the timing and temperature above. Total prep time is about 10 minutes, with a 15-minute cook time. While the chops cook you can prepare quick sides on the stove or roast a vegetable on another oven rack for a complete meal.