Juicy grilled pork chops are a tasty and easy dish that’s perfect for any cookout! They are seasoned just right and cooked to juicy perfection on the grill.
Pair them with some grilled veggies or a fresh salad for a great meal. Trust me, these chops will make your taste buds dance! Who knew grilling could be this simple and delicious?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I love using bone-in pork chops for their extra flavor, but boneless works too. Choose chops about 1-inch thick for juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, center-cut pork loin chops are a great alternative.
Olive Oil: This helps to lock in moisture and adds flavor. You can swap it for canola oil or avocado oil if needed. Both are great for grilling!
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and umami. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos for a similar taste without gluten.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Either sweetener caramelizes beautifully on the grill. For a sugar-free option, consider using maple syrup or a sugar substitute like agave nectar.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a great flavor. If you can’t find it, feel free to use regular paprika or even cumin for a different warmth.
How Do I Keep My Pork Chops Juicy on the Grill?
Getting juicy grilled pork chops is all about the marinade and cooking technique. First, marinate the chops well to infuse them with flavor and moisture. A few hours is best, but 1 hour is the minimum. Here’s how to grill them perfectly:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. This ensures a good sear on the chops.
- After marinating, always let excess marinade drip off before grilling to avoid flare-ups.
- Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Always let the chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling—this step is key for juicy meat as it allows the juices to redistribute.
With these tips, your pork chops will come out juicy and full of flavor every time!
How to Make Juicy Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 to 6 bone-in or boneless pork chops, about 1-inch thick
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a slight kick)
For Serving:
- Fresh lemon juice, optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (3-4 hours is ideal for more flavor). Grill time will be around 10-12 minutes, and don’t forget to rest the chops for 5 minutes before serving. All in all, you should set aside around 1 hour and 30 minutes for the total experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chili powder until everything is well combined. This mixture is going to flavor your pork chops beautifully!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and place them in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. Let these marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can, marinating for 3-4 hours will give you the best flavor and juiciness!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the pork chops are soaking up that delicious marinade flavor, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Before placing the pork chops on the grill, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking—this will keep your chops pretty and intact!
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Once the grill is ready, take the pork chops out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chops on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chops. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy pork.
5. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting time is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute. If you like, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the tops of the chops just before serving to add brightness to the flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your juicy grilled pork chops hot with your favorite sides—grilled veggies, salad, or maybe some fluffy mashed potatoes. Enjoy the smoky char and delicious caramelized glaze!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen pork chops, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. It’s best to thaw them in the fridge overnight for even thawing and to maintain food safety.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate pork chops for a minimum of 1 hour, but for the best flavor and juiciness, try to marinate them for 3-4 hours. If you’re short on time, 1 hour will still give you tasty results!
What Should I Do If My Pork Chops Are Overcooked?
If your pork chops are overcooked, they can become dry. To help remedy this, serve them with a flavorful sauce or glaze, or add a drizzle of olive oil or butter to retain moisture before serving.
How Can I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to help maintain moisture.