Grilled pork chops are juicy and packed with flavor, making them a perfect dinner choice. With a nice char on the outside and tenderness inside, they’re hard to resist!
Who doesn’t love that smoky taste? I often pair mine with a simple salad or some grilled veggies for a lovely meal that feels fancy but is super easy to make! 🥩🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are best for grilling. They stay juicy and have great flavor. If you can only find boneless chops, those will work too but keep an eye on cooking time as they might cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spice mix stick. You can substitute with avocado oil or any other cooking oil you prefer—just avoid strongly flavored oils.
Spices: Smoked paprika is key for that smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will do. Garlic and onion powders offer a nice depth; feel free to use fresh garlic or onion if you prefer. Dried herbs like oregano and thyme are best, but fresh herbs can work if you triple the amount.
Cayenne Pepper: I add this for some kick, but if you’re not a fan of spice, you can leave it out or use a pinch of black pepper instead.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks and Juicy Pork Chops?
The key to beautifully grilled pork chops is preheating your grill and not moving the chops too much while cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Get your grill nice and hot before placing the pork chops on it—medium-high heat is ideal.
- Place the chops on the grill and don’t touch them for about 4-5 minutes. This will help create those lovely grill marks.
- After flipping, aim for the same cooking time. Use a meat thermometer; you want 145°F in the thickest part.
- Let the chops rest for a few minutes after grilling—this brings out the flavor and keeps them juicy!
With these tips, your grilled pork chops will be a hit at your next meal! Enjoy!
Grilled Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 10-12 minutes to cook. Be sure to allow an extra 5 minutes for the pork chops to rest after grilling. In total, you’re looking at about 25-30 minutes to enjoy perfectly grilled chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. This spice mix will give your pork chops a delicious, robust flavor!
2. Get the Chops Ready:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is super important because it helps the spice rub stick and ensures you get a nice sear on the grill. Once dried, rub both sides of each chop with olive oil.
3. Coat with the Spice Mixture:
Evenly sprinkle the spice mixture on both sides of the pork chops, gently pressing it in to make sure it sticks. You want all that flavor to make its way into the meat!
4. Preheat the Grill:
Set your grill to medium-high heat and allow it to warm up. Getting the grill nice and hot ensures that you get those lovely grill marks and a tasty crust on your pork chops.
5. Grill the Chops:
Once the grill is hot, place your seasoned pork chops on it. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Adjust the cooking time if your chops are thicker or thinner than one inch.
6. Let Them Rest:
When your pork chops reach the right temperature, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite tender and juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Just before serving, garnish your beautifully grilled pork chops with freshly chopped parsley. They make a great main dish, especially when paired with your favorite sides like grilled veggies, a salad, or mashed potatoes. Dig in and enjoy!
This recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful pork chops with a delightful smoky char. Happy grilling!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check for doneness a bit earlier—around 3-4 minutes per side should be sufficient, depending on thickness.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator will enhance the flavor. Just make sure to rinse off any excess marinade before grilling to avoid burning.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Grill These on a Charcoal Grill?
Definitely! A charcoal grill can add even more flavor. Just ensure your coals are hot and ashed over before placing the pork chops on the grill for that perfect sear and smoky taste.
