These grilled brown sugar pork chops are sweet, juicy, and oh-so-tasty! The brown sugar caramelizes on the grill, making each bite a little piece of heaven.
I love serving these with a side of veggies or a fresh salad. They’re super easy to make, and my family always asks for seconds. Who can resist that sweetness? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless pork chops work well too. Just watch the cooking time since they can cook faster!
Brown Sugar: This is the star ingredient for sweetness. If you’re out, you can use white sugar or coconut sugar in a pinch. Just remember that they won’t provide the same depth of flavor.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami, but you can swap it for tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. Both alternatives will still give you a good savory boost!
Olive Oil: A staple for marinating. If you’d like, you can use melted butter for a richer taste, or avocado oil for a high-heat cooking alternative.
Spices: Garlic powder is my go-to for this recipe. You can use fresh minced garlic instead if you prefer a more robust flavor. For those who want less smokiness, feel free to skip the smoked paprika.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky. The goal is to get them fully cooked while keeping them juicy. Here are some tips:
- Marinate Wisely: Aim for at least an hour, but if you can, go for 4 hours to really deepen the flavors.
- Medium-High Heat: Preheat your grill properly. This helps achieve those nice grill marks and caramelization.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). It’s the best way to ensure they’re safe to eat without drying out!
- Resting is Key: Let the chops rest for 3-5 minutes after grilling. This helps keep them juicy as the juices redistribute.
With these tips, you’ll have those pork chops coming off the grill perfectly every time! Enjoy! 🍽️
Grilled Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to marinate (up to 4 hours for more flavor!). The grilling takes about 10-12 minutes, plus an additional 3-5 minutes for resting. So overall, set aside about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by whisking together the brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), black pepper, and salt in a medium bowl. This mixture will be the marinade that adds amazing flavor to your pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each chop gets a nice coating. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or even up to 4 hours if you have time!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the pork chops are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure to lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. This step ensures the chops cook evenly and don’t cling to the grill.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
After marinating, take the pork chops out of the fridge. Let any excess marinade drip off and reserve the leftover marinade. Place the pork chops on the hot grill. Grill each chop for about 4-5 minutes per side. While grilling, brush them with the reserved marinade to create a lovely glaze.
5. Check for Doneness:
Keep grilling until the internal temperature of the pork chops reaches 145°F (63°C). You should see beautiful grill marks and a nice caramelization on the chops.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest on a plate for about 3-5 minutes. This is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your grilled pork chops with fresh parsley if desired. Serve them warm alongside grilled vegetables or your favorite sides, like the delicious grilled potatoes and green beans featured in the image. Get ready to enjoy the delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors in every bite!
Happy grilling! 🥩✨
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just be mindful that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so check the internal temperature a few minutes earlier, aiming for 145°F (63°C).
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity from the marinade can start to break down the meat, making it mushy.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove. If they seem dry, add a splash of broth or water to retain moisture while reheating.
Can I Bake the Pork Chops Instead of Grilling?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated pork chops on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach the desired internal temperature. Just be sure to check for doneness, as baking times can vary.