These juicy grilled pork chops are so tender and full of flavor, you’ll want to make them every weekend! A simple marinade of spices and herbs makes them extra tasty!
Honestly, I can’t resist a good pork chop on the grill. It’s the perfect meal for a sunny day. Just serve with some veggies, and you’re all set for a delicious dinner! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for juiciness, but boneless are perfectly fine too. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pork loin or tenderloin, just adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. You can swap it for other oils like avocado or canola. Just avoid oils with strong flavors; you want the pork’s taste to shine.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These add amazing flavor without needing fresh ingredients. If you prefer fresh, use 1-2 cloves of minced garlic and about a tablespoon of finely chopped onion—just be cautious with the timing as fresh can burn quicker.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works, but consider adding a dash of liquid smoke to keep that smoky essence.
Brown Sugar: This is optional but adds a nice caramelization. If you’re looking for healthier options, try honey or maple syrup in a pinch, but be careful as they can burn faster.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Perfect Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but with a few easy steps, you can nail it every time! First, make sure you have a hot grill. Here’s how to ensure they cook beautifully:
- Preheat the Grill: A hot grill is key—aim for medium-high heat. Don’t skip this; it helps to sear the meat and seal in the juices.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give the chops space on the grill. If they’re too close, they won’t cook evenly.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer for best results. Pull them off the grill at 145°F (63°C) for juicy chops. They will continue to cook a bit while resting.
- Let Them Rest: This is a crucial step! Resting helps the juices redistribute. Just 5 minutes will make a big difference in keeping them juicy.
Juicy Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 to 6 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for slight sweetness and caramelization)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes for grilling. So, you can have your delicious juicy pork chops ready in about 20 minutes! Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade/Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar if you’re using it. Stir everything together until it’s mixed well. This will be the flavorful rub for your pork chops!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of each chop. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chops, making sure to press it gently so it sticks well. This will help enhance the flavor as they grill.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by heating it to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 204°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals for direct heat. A hot grill is crucial for getting those beautiful grill marks and juicy chops!
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Once your grill is hot, carefully place the pork chops on the grates. Grill them for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Make sure to flip them only once to get nice grill marks. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for a perfect juicy chop.
5. Rest the Pork Chops:
When the chops are done cooking, remove them from the grill and place them on a plate. Cover them loosely with foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender and juicy.
6. Serve:
After resting, serve your delicious grilled pork chops warm. They pair wonderfully with grilled veggies, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal and savor the flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator before you start. You can defrost them more quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! You can substitute regular paprika; however, for a bit of smoky flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke. Alternatively, you could use a combination of paprika and a bit of cumin for a different but tasty flavor twist!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Yes! Marinating them overnight in the fridge will enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to keep them covered to prevent them from drying out, and remember to bring them to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent them from drying out.