Grilled pork chops are juicy and full of flavor. They’re easy to make and perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner at home!
I love how the grill gives them a nice, smoky touch. Pair these with a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal that even picky eaters will enjoy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for grilling because they stay juicy and flavorful. If you only have boneless chops, that’s fine too! Just adjust the cooking time, as boneless chops tend to cook faster.
Olive Oil: This is a must for keeping the chops moist while grilling. If you’re avoiding olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil works well as alternatives.
Spices: The smoked paprika gives a lovely depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works. Add a dash of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor if you’re out of the smoky variety. For a fresh twist, fresh garlic and fresh herbs can replace garlic powder and dried thyme.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional; it adds heat but can be skipped if you prefer milder flavors. You can also substitute it with a little black pepper or leave it out entirely!
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks and Juiciness?
Getting the right grill marks and ensuring your pork chops stay juicy is all about technique. Here are some tips:
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is well-heated before placing the chops on it. This helps them sear properly and locks in moisture.
- Don’t Move Them Too Much: Place the chops on the grill and let them be for 4-5 minutes. Don’t flip them too early, as this can prevent those beautiful grill marks.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness – 145°F is safe for pork. This helps you avoid overcooking and ensures juicy meat.
- Resting Time: Remember to let your chops rest after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping it tender.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to serving perfect pork chops that everyone will enjoy!
Grilled Pork Chops Recipe
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 (or fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as thyme or parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 10 minutes of cooking time, plus a few minutes for resting. You’ll be enjoying delicious grilled pork chops in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Grill:
First things first, let’s get that grill hot! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 400°F to 450°F. This is the perfect temperature for grilling those chops to juicy perfection.
2. Make the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). This blend will give your pork chops a flavorful kick!
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Use paper towels to pat the pork chops dry. This step ensures a nice sear. Next, brush both sides of the chops with olive oil to keep them moist while grilling.
4. Season the Pork Chops:
Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop. Press gently to make sure it sticks well. Now your chops are ready to hit the grill!
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the hot grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until grill marks appear and the underside is beautifully charred. Remember, don’t move them around too much!
6. Flip and Cook:
Carefully flip the pork chops over and grill for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 145°F. This ensures they’re cooked safely and remain juicy!
7. Rest the Chops:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the grill. Tent them with foil and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps keep all those delicious juices inside.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs like thyme or parsley for a lovely finish. Serve your grilled pork chops hot alongside your favorite sides, like roasted veggies or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your smoky, flavorful, tender grilled pork chops with that perfect charred crust! Happy grilling!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! While bone-in pork chops are juicier and more flavorful, boneless chops will also work. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they tend to cook faster than bone-in chops.
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. You want the internal temperature to reach 145°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, the meat should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika and add a few drops of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. Alternatively, cumin or even chili powder can give a different but tasty flavor profile!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Yes, marinating the pork chops can enhance the flavor! Simply combine the olive oil and spices, and coat the chops. Let them sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.