These Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops are juicy and packed with flavor. Marinated in a sweet mix of spices, they’re perfect for any BBQ!
Trust me, the smell while grilling is heavenly! I love serving them with some corn on the cob for the ultimate summer meal. So delicious! 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops offer great flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too but may cook faster. Just keep an eye on them!
Brown Sugar: It gives sweetness and a lovely caramelization. If you’re out, you can substitute with coconut sugar or even regular granulated sugar, but the flavor will vary slightly.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess to balance the sweetness. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can work as a replacement, though the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Honey: Honey enhances the glaze’s sweetness. Maple syrup or agave syrup can be good alternatives if you’re out of honey. The taste will change subtly, but they’ll still work great!
Cayenne Pepper: It adds a kick! If you prefer milder flavors, you can leave it out or use a pinch of paprika as a substitute.
How Do I Grill Pork Chops to Perfect Tenderness?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but getting them just right is all about temperature and timing. Here’s how to ensure they are juicy:
- Start with a good marinade for flavor and moisture. Marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best.
- Preheat your grill properly to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C) for consistent cooking.
- Don’t flip them too often—cooking 5-6 minutes per side allows perfect grill marks and flavor.
- Always check internal temperature, aiming for 145°F (63°C) for safe and juicy chops.
- Let them rest post-grilling to keep juices inside—3-5 minutes is ideal.
These tips will help you achieve perfectly grilled pork chops every time! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a bit of heat)
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 2 hours for marinating. Then, grilling will take about 12 minutes. So overall, you’re looking at least 2 hours and 22 minutes, most of which is hands-off while the pork chops soak up all that delicious flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk everything until it’s well combined. This tasty mixture will be your marinade and basting sauce!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of your marinade over the pork chops, making sure they’re well coated. Reserve the other half for later. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours — overnight is even better!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Get it nice and hot so you can achieve those perfect grill marks!
4. Prepare the Chops for Grilling:
Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Discard the marinade used for marinating, as it’s no longer safe to use.
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the hot grill. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You can baste with the reserved marinade during cooking for extra flavor. You’re looking for that delicious caramelization and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let Them Rest:
Once grilled to perfection, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them super juicy when you cut into them!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish the pork chops with freshly chopped chives or parsley to make them look as good as they taste. Serve them up with your favorite Southern sides, like grilled corn and asparagus, and enjoy every tasty bite!
Enjoy your Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops, full of flavor and sure to impress!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! While bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier, boneless chops will also work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook more quickly—about 4-5 minutes per side should suffice.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
For the best flavor, aim to marinate them for at least 2 hours, but you can marinate them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to keep them well-covered!
What Should I Serve with the Pork Chops?
These sweet pork chops pair wonderfully with Southern sides like grilled corn on the cob, collard greens, or a fresh cucumber salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with mashed potatoes or rice.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to avoid drying them out. You might want to add a little splash of broth or water to keep them moist while reheating!