Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Make the crust: In a bowl, combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, paprika, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Add a little lemon zest if you like. Mix until it looks like damp sand.
Heat the pan: Place a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
Let it get hot until shimmering.
Sear the chops: Add the pork and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until nicely browned. Don’t move them around too much; let the crust form.
Top with crust: Turn off the heat. Spoon the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the tops of the chops, pressing gently so it adheres.
Finish in the oven: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 6–10 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Rest and garnish: Let the chops rest 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a light squeeze of lemon juice before serving.