These BBQ pork chops are juicy and flavorful, perfect for grilling season! Coated in a tangy sauce, they bring a delicious twist to your dinner table.
Who can resist that smoky goodness? I love serving them with corn on the cob, but let’s be real—I often sneak a bite right off the grill! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great because they stay juicy during cooking. If you prefer boneless, they will work just fine. Just watch the cooking time, as they may cook faster!
Barbecue Sauce: You can use any store-bought barbecue sauce you love, or make your own! A vinegar-based sauce vs. a thicker sauce can change the flavor. Choose according to your preference.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to keep the pork moist and adds flavor. You can substitute with vegetable oil or avocado oil, but I find olive oil gives a lovely taste that enhances the pork.
Spices: The smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder create amazing depth. If you want less spice, you could skip the paprika or even substitute it with regular paprika for a milder flavor.
How Can I Get Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Getting the right grill marks and juicy pork chops requires attentive cooking. Here are some tips to help you achieve that:
- Make sure your grill is hot enough! Pre-heating is key to sear the meat and lock in juices.
- Don’t flip the pork chops too soon; let them cook undisturbed on one side to form nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer! Look for 145°F for perfectly cooked pork chops. This is the safest way to ensure they aren’t undercooked or dry.
- Let the pork chops rest after grilling. Resting helps the juices redistribute, which means every bite is tender and juicy!
Follow these steps, and you’ll take your BBQ pork chops to the next level! Enjoy the deliciousness!
BBQ Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ pork chops recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to grill. So, in total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes before you’re enjoying these juicy chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which should be around 400°F. This is important for getting those perfect grill marks and juicy meat.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This blend will give your pork chops amazing flavor. Set it aside for now.
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Rub the pork chops with olive oil on both sides to help the spices stick. Then, take the spice mixture and sprinkle it evenly over the pork chops, gently massaging it in. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
4. Grill the Chops:
Now, it’s time to grill! Place the pork chops on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Don’t flip them too soon; this is how you get nice grill marks!
5. Flip and Sauce It Up:
After the first side is grilled nicely, flip the pork chops over. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the cooked side. Yum! Keep grilling for another 4-5 minutes.
6. Baste and Check Temperature:
Flip the pork chops again, and baste the other side with more barbecue sauce. Continue cooking and basting, flipping occasionally for about 2-4 more minutes. Use a meat thermometer to make sure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps all those tasty juices redistribute so every bite is tender and juicy. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a nice touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve them hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side, and enjoy your delicious BBQ pork chops! Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend cookout, these are sure to impress!
Enjoy tender, smoky, and flavorful BBQ pork chops that are beautifully caramelized with a hint of char and fresh herb brightness!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just as well. Just be sure to reduce the cooking time slightly since they can cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
How Can I Make My BBQ Sauce from Scratch?
Making BBQ sauce at home can be fun and customizable! Combine 1 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar, a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to taste. Simmer on low heat for 15 minutes and adjust sweetness or tanginess as desired.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to keep them juicy. You can also add a splash of broth to keep them from drying out while reheating!
Can I Grill These Pork Chops on a Gas Grill?
Yes, you can easily grill these pork chops on a gas grill! Just make sure to preheat it well, and follow the same cooking instructions as you would for a charcoal grill. Keep an eye on the temperature to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy!
