These BBQ pork chops are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor! Grilled to perfection, they have a nice smoky taste that everyone loves. They are perfect for family dinners or summer cookouts.
Whenever I make these, they vanish in no time. Seriously, even the pickiest eaters can’t resist! I like to serve them with a side of coleslaw for that sweet and tangy combo. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and tenderness. If you prefer boneless, they work too, but adjust cooking time as they cook faster.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own. For a twist, try a spicy or apple cider vinegar-based sauce. Just consider your taste preference!
Smoked Paprika: It adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you can’t find it, use regular paprika plus a dash of cayenne for heat. It won’t be the same, but it’ll still taste good!
Olive Oil: While I like olive oil for its flavor, vegetable oil or canola oil is also fine. Just avoid strong oils like coconut, which can alter the taste.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy pork chops lies in proper grilling and seasoning. Here are some tips:
- Pat the pork chops dry to help the seasoning stick and to prevent steaming.
- Don’t skip the spice rub—it helps lock in flavor.
- A grill preheated to medium-high lets you get nice grill marks and seals in the juices.
- Check the internal temperature. Don’t overcook; aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy meat.
- Let them rest after grilling. It’s essential for redistributing the juices, making every bite tender.
How to Make BBQ Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 cup BBQ 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 salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 25 minutes—5 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for grilling. It’s quick to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat, which is around 400°F (200°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, light it and wait until the coals are covered with white ash before you start cooking.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning will add amazing flavor to your pork chops!
3. Get the Pork Chops Ready:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. This helps the oil and spices stick better. Lightly brush each chop with olive oil on both sides. This gives them a nice sear when cooking.
4. Season the Chops:
Now, rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each pork chop. Make sure they’re well-coated for the best flavor!
5. Start Grilling:
Place the seasoned pork chops on the hot grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving them. This helps develop those beautiful grill marks.
6. Flip and Sauce:
After 4-5 minutes, carefully flip the chops over. Brush the cooked side generously with your BBQ sauce for that delicious flavor boost.
7. Finish Cooking:
Let the second side cook for another 4-5 minutes. Flip them again, add more BBQ sauce, and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re juicy and perfect!
8. Rest the Chops:
Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. Resting is crucial as it allows the juices inside to settle, keeping them tender.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
If you’d like, garnish your BBQ pork chops with some chopped fresh parsley. Serve them hot with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or potato salad.
Enjoy your tender, smoky, and flavorful BBQ Pork Chops! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-in?
Yes! Boneless pork chops can be used, but they will cook faster than bone-in chops. Keep an eye on them and reduce the cooking time to about 3-4 minutes per side to avoid drying them out.
What Kind of BBQ Sauce Works Best?
Your favorite sauce will work just fine! If you prefer, try a smoky, sweet, or spicy variety depending on your taste. Homemade BBQ sauce can also elevate the flavor if you’re up for it!
How Do I Know When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to ensure your pork chops are properly cooked is by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. They should reach 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for a few minutes before serving for juicy results.
Can I Marinate Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops in your BBQ sauce or a simple mixture of oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs for up to 24 hours will infuse them with extra flavor and tenderness. Just remember to pat them dry before grilling for better searing.
