Let’s get to the heart of it—the cooking! Follow these steps, and you’ll be serving up something special before you know it.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your pork chops cook evenly and develop that beautiful caramelized crust.
2. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). This blend will be the magic that transforms your pork chops.
3. Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel and rub each chop generously with the spice mixture, pressing it into the meat to ensure it sticks.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the pork chops in the skillet and sear for about 3 minutes on each side, or until a golden brown crust forms.
5. Add the water to the skillet, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your pork chops tender and juicy.

Remember, cooking is not about stress but joy. If you find the spice mix a bit too sweet, adjust the sugar to your liking. I’ve found that my kids prefer it just like this, with a hint of cayenne, which makes me feel like a culinary genius every time.