what temp to cook pork chops

The safe internal temperature for cooking pork chops is 145°F (63°C) followed by a 3-minute rest. To check doneness properly, use a digital cooking thermometer. The best temperature for baking pork chops depends on how thick they are, how they are prepared, and personal preferences. Baking pork chops at 350°F will result in more gently cooked and tender pork chops, but it will take more time. Baking pork chops at 400°F will result in a slightly crisper, more caramelized exterior. As a general rule of thumb, plan on 7 to 8 minutes per 1/2 inch of thickness for pork chops baked at 400°F. When grilling thick pork chops, its important for the pork to reach 145°F (63°C) to develop the proper texture with the muscle fibers and fat and to be safe to eat, but really no higher.