If there’s one meat dish that brings me right back to my mom’s Puerto Rican kitchen, it’s pork chops, or as we call them, chuletas. Pork chops are a staple in Puerto Rican kitchens, and for good reason: they’re versatile, flavorful, and easy to make. Today, I’m sharing a simple yet absolutely delicious recipe for juicy baked Puerto Rican pork chops. Trust me, these won’t disappoint!
Growing up, I saw pork chops prepared in all sorts of ways: fried, grilled, stewed, you name it. Each method has its charm, but there’s something special about baking them. Baking lets the flavors seep in while keeping the meat juicy and tender—plus, it’s a bit healthier than frying. So, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these incredible baked chuletas.
My Baked Puerto Rican Pork Chop Recipe
This recipe makes six pork chops, perfect for a family dinner or leftovers for the week. Here’s how to create the magic:
Step 1: Prep the Pork Chops
First things first, pierce the pork chops with a fork. This step is essential because it helps the marinade penetrate every part of the meat, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If your pork chops are frozen, a quick defrost in the microwave works like a charm. (We’ve all been there!)
Step 2: Add the Annatto Oil
Next, we add 2-3 tablespoons of annatto oil, also known as aceite de achiote. This vibrant oil is made by simmering annatto seeds in vegetable oil until they release their rich, golden-red color. It not only gives the pork chops their gorgeous hue but also adds a subtle earthy flavor. If you don’t have annatto oil on hand, don’t worry! You can make it yourself; I’ll share a quick tutorial soon.
Use your hands (or a glove if you’re avoiding a mess) to rub the oil evenly over the pork chops.
Step 3: Add Lemon Juice
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the pork chops. Lemon juice adds a bright, tangy layer to the marinade and helps tenderize the meat. It’s a small step with a big flavor payoff.
Step 4: Season Generously
Seasoning is where Puerto Rican cooking truly shines. For these pork chops, we’re using one tablespoon of oregano and one tablespoon of adobo. Oregano brings a warm, herbal note that pairs beautifully with pork. Adobo, the classic all-purpose Puerto Rican seasoning blend, adds that iconic savory kick.
A quick note: Adobo already contains salt, so you likely won’t need to add extra. If you’re someone who loves experimenting, you can also sprinkle in a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra depth.
Step 5: Let Them Marinate
Once your pork chops are seasoned to perfection, cover the bowl and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. For the best results, marinate them overnight in the fridge. Trust me, the longer the marinade works its magic, the better the flavors will be.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil (hello, easy cleanup!). Lay out the pork chops in a single layer and bake for 50-60 minutes. Halfway through, at the 30-minute mark, flip the pork chops over to ensure even cooking.
When the timer dings, you’ll have golden-brown pork chops that are juicy, tender, and full of Puerto Rican flavor.
How to Serve Your Puerto Rican Pork Chops
In my house, these pork chops are always served with arroz con habichuelas (rice and beans) or a simple side of tostones (fried plantains). The combination of juicy pork, fluffy rice, and savory beans is unbeatable. You could also pair them with a fresh salad or roasted veggies if you’re feeling lighter fare.
Why Pork Chops Matter in Puerto Rican Cooking
Pork is a central part of Puerto Rican cuisine, from lechón (roast pork) to pernil (slow-roasted pork shoulder). Pork chops, in particular, are a quick and accessible way to bring those bold, traditional flavors to your table. They’re budget-friendly, easy to find, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re baking them as we did today, frying them up for crispy chuletas fritas, or stewing them in a rich sauce, pork chops are the ultimate comfort food.
Let’s Get Cooking!
I hope this recipe inspires you to try your hand at making baked Puerto Rican pork chops. They’re simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. If you do try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! And stay tuned for my upcoming post on making annatto oil—you’ll want to have it on hand for all your Puerto Rican cooking adventures.
As always, buen provecho!
💖 Yessi
Baked Puerto Rican Pork Chops
Print Recipe
Equipment
- 1 oven
- 1 Baking dish
Ingredients
- 6 Pork Chops
- 2-3 tbsp annatto oil
- 1 Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp Oregano
- 1 tbsp Adobo
Instructions
- Prep the Pork Chops – Pierce pork chops with a fork for better marinade absorption.
- Add Annatto Oil – Coat each chop evenly for flavor and color.
- Squeeze Lemon Juice – Enhances flavor and tenderizes the meat.
- Season Well – Sprinkle oregano and adobo evenly over the chops.
- Marinate – Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for best results).
- Bake – Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with foil, lay out pork chops, and bake for 50-60 minutes, flipping at the 30-minute mark.
- Enjoy!
