Dissolve the salt in warm water in a large bowl. Submerge the pork chops in the brine and let them sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and black pepper in a small bowl.
Remove the pork chops from the brine and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Rub the seasoning mixture generously over all sides of the pork chops.
Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork chops and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 145°F (63°C).
Remove the pork chops from the oven, place them on a cutting board, and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Brining the pork chops is crucial for keeping them juicy. Letting them rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute.