Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment
Pat pork chops dry with paper towels
Season both sides with salt and black pepper
Add optional seasoning: garlic powder, paprika, thyme, or rosemary
Heat 1–2 tsp oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat (optional for extra browning)
Sear pork chops 2–3 minutes per side until browned (optional)
Transfer to baking sheet or keep in the skillet
Bake until the thickest part reaches 145°F (63°C), about 10–18 minutes depending on thickness
For thicker chops (1 inch+), bake closer to 18–25 minutes
Remove from oven and rest 3–5 minutes before serving
Optional finishing: brush with barbecue sauce or pan juices during the last 2–3 minutes of baking