Grilled pork chops are juicy and full of flavor, perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner. They get a nice char on the grill, making them even tastier!
There’s something so satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked pork chop. I love serving them with a side salad or some grilled veggies—it’s a meal that feels fancy but is really easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for grilling, as the bone adds flavor and helps keep the meat juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use boneless chops or even pork loin. Just adjust the cooking time since thinner cuts cook faster.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the seasoning stick and adds moisture. You can substitute with canola oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter for added flavor—just watch the heat to avoid burning the butter.
Spices: Smoked paprika is key for that rich, smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works fine, but you might miss some of that depth. You can also play with spices; feel free to use Italian seasoning or a BBQ rub if you’re in a pinch.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for heat, and you can skip it if you prefer a milder flavor. If you like it spicy, consider adding hot sauce to the olive oil before rubbing it on the chops.
How Can You Get Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops might seem tricky, but mastering a few techniques will help you serve them perfectly every time. The key is in the prep and cooking method!
- Pat Dry: Make sure to pat your pork chops dry. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures a nice sear.
- Rest Time: Allow the chops to rest after rubbing in the spices. This helps the flavors meld together and keeps the meat tender when cooked.
- Medium-High Heat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Pork is safe to eat at 145°F (63°C) for optimal juiciness.
- Let Them Rest: After grilling, let the pork chops rest. This is crucial; resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, preventing dryness.
With these seasoned pork chops, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s always a hit! Enjoy your grilling!
Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (plus fresh thyme sprigs for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional for slight caramelization)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total, including 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of grilling time. After grilling, you’ll let the chops rest for about 5 minutes. It’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy a juicy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper (if using), and brown sugar (if using). This will be your seasoning blend for the pork chops.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Brush both sides of the chops with olive oil, making sure they are well coated.
3. Season the Chops:
Take the spice mixture and rub it evenly over both sides of each pork chop. Press the seasoning in gently to ensure it sticks well and flavors the meat.
4. Heat the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). Don’t forget to oil the grill grates to prevent the chops from sticking!
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Make sure to rotate the chops halfway through each side’s cooking time to get those beautiful grill marks. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are perfectly cooked.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the grill. Let them rest on a plate for about 3-5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making them juicy and tender!
7. Serve:
Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful grilled pork chops alongside some grilled veggies or a refreshing salad. They would make a fantastic meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just be mindful of their thinner cut, as they will cook faster—around 3-4 minutes per side. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when cooking.
How Can I Make These Chops Spicier?
If you want extra heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice mix or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You could also marinate the pork chops in your favorite hot sauce for an hour before grilling!
What Should I Serve with Grilled Pork Chops?
These pork chops are delicious with sides like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with applesauce or a fruit salsa for a sweet contrast!
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a pan over low heat or microwave them gently, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.