Juicy Grilled Pork Chops: A Perfect BBQ Delight
Grilling is an art form that requires patience, attention to detail, and a love for the process. And when it comes to grilling pork chops, nothing beats the taste of succulent, juicy grilled pork chops.
If you’re looking for the best grilled pork chops recipe out there, then you’re in luck. With my recipe, you’ll have perfectly cooked pork chops every time – juicy, tender and packed with flavor.
I’ve spent years working as a barista and have learned that perfection comes from a mix of good ingredients, proper cooking technique, and patience. So get ready to fire up the grill and let me guide you through the steps to create the perfect grilled pork chop – easy to follow yet yielding fantastic results.
This grilled pork chops recipe is quick and easy to make without sacrificing taste or texture. You’ll fall in love with it at first bite as the flavors burst into your mouth with each juicy bite.
So grab your apron, turn on your grill and let’s dive into this succulent recipe that will make your next barbecue event unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love juicy and tender grilled pork chops, this recipe is perfect for you! The best grilled pork chops are those that are packed with flavor and cooked to perfection, and this recipe does not disappoint. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
Firstly, the combination of lemon pepper seasoning, garlic cloves, and light soy sauce creates an unforgettable flavor profile that is both savory and tangy. This blend of flavors balances each other perfectly to create a delicious and complex taste that will have your taste buds dancing.
Secondly, this recipe is incredibly easy to follow! With detailed instructions and step-by-step guidance, even beginner cooks will be able to master the art of grilling pork chops with ease. You won’t need any fancy equipment or tools, just a grill or grill pan and some simple ingredients.
Thirdly, this recipe allows for endless customization! Whether you prefer bone-in or boneless pork chops, center-cut or loin chops, 1 inch or 1/4 inch thick, these tips and recommendations can help make your pork chops perfect grilled every time! You can also choose between marinated pork chops with honey garlic sauce, bbq sauce or barbecue sauce to add more variety and richness to your meal.
Lastly and most importantly – the outcome is always a juicy grilled pork chop with perfectly caramelized edges. It’s satisfying without being too heavy so it’s the perfect protein option for your weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues or date night in.
With all these reasons combined, it’s clear that this is undoubtedly the best grilled pork chops recipe out there. Try it out today and see for yourself!
Ingredient List
To make the best grilled pork chops, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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Pork chops: You can use bone-in or boneless pork chops for this recipe. Choose chops that are about 1 inch thick, as they are easier to cook and less likely to dry out.
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Salt and pepper: For seasoning the pork chops before grilling.
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Olive oil: To rub on the pork chops before grilling to keep them moist.
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Garlic cloves: Mince the garlic cloves and rub them on the pork chops to add a savory flavor.
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Lemon pepper seasoning: This blend of salt, dried lemon zest, pepper, and other spices adds a tangy flavor to the pork chops.
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Light soy sauce: Used as a marinade ingredient, soy sauce adds saltiness and umami flavors to the meat.
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Water: To balance the saltiness of the soy sauce and prevent it from overpowering the dish.
For substitutions and variations, feel free to experiment with different marinades like honey garlic pork or barbecue sauce, or brined pork for extra juiciness. You can also try using different cuts of pork such as pork steaks or loin chops.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to dig into the recipe how-to. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve the perfect juicy grilled pork chops every time!
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat a grill to medium-high heat or 375-400°F preferably with direct heat for the best results. This usually takes about 15 minutes for a gas grill and over hot coals for a charcoal grill.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops
Brush both sides of the pork chops lightly with vegetable oil or olive oil, then sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides. You can also use a mixture of garlic cloves and lemon pepper seasoning for an extra flavor boost.
Step 3: Grill the Pork Chops
Once the grill is heated up, place the pork chops directly onto the grill grates with direct heat. Cook pork chops on medium-high heat for approximately 3-4 minutes per side until you see some nice browning with good char marks. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until both sides are golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.
Tip: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking or undercooking your pork chops.
Step 4: Let It Rest
Remove your juicy grilled pork chop from the grill and let them sit for about 5 minutes before serving so that they have time to rest and reabsorb moisture.
And there you have it – perfect grilled pork chops ready in just about 12 minutes of total cooking time!
Too Cold Outside to Grill? Try A Grill Pan!
No worries if grilling isn’t an option! You can use a grill pan on medium-high heat for this recipe too. Simply follow steps two and three above instead, using a bit more oil on the grill pan so that it doesn’t stick. Cook each side for approximately 4 minutes, allowing each flip cook side by side, just like grilling!
With this easy recipe, you can create mouth-watering loin chops or center cut bone-in or boneless chops quickly any day of the week!
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your grilled pork chops, there are a few substitutions and variations to consider.
Firstly, if you don’t have lemon pepper seasoning on hand, you can substitute it with any other type of dry seasoning that you prefer. Try experimenting with different blends of herbs and spices for a unique flavor profile.
For those who prefer a sweeter taste, consider marinating your pork chops in a honey garlic or barbecue sauce before grilling them. The marinade not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat wonderfully juicy and tender.
If you’re watching your salt intake or not a fan of soy sauce, swap it out for a low-sodium alternative or eliminate it altogether. You can also use brined pork chops instead of marinated ones – they offer a more subtle flavor but retain the meat’s natural moisture.
Additionally, this recipe works well with boneless pork steaks or center-cut chops. Keep in mind that cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the cut – aim for 3-4 minutes per side for 1 inch thick chops.
Finally, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, try cooking the pork chops in a grill pan over medium-high heat. A cast iron skillet would also work great for achieving those beautiful grill marks.
With these substitutions and variations in mind, you can create countless delicious versions of this easy recipe to keep things interesting all summer long.
Serving and Pairing
The best part of grilling is that it brings people together. In my opinion, the ultimate way to serve grilled pork chops is family-style, with a variety of sides and condiments for everyone to enjoy.
For sides, I recommend keeping it simple with classics like grilled corn on the cob and a refreshing garden salad. However, if you’re looking to switch things up, roasted vegetables or crispy french fries are great options too.
When it comes to sauces and condiments, there’s no shortage of choices. For a tangy kick, try homemade barbecue sauce or a soy-based glaze. If you prefer something sweeter, opt for honey garlic pork chops or a sticky honey glaze.
Pairing-wise, you can’t go wrong with a full-bodied red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. If beer is more your style, I suggest going with something hoppy like an IPA. That being said, don’t be afraid to experiment with different drink pairings and see what works best for you.
The beauty of serving grilled pork chops is that they don’t require any fancy plating or garnishes – just let their juicy tenderness speak for itself. So fire up the grill, invite some friends over and get ready for an unforgettable meal!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
The beauty of this grilled pork chops recipe is that you can prepare the chops in advance and enjoy them at your convenience. If you are prepping ahead of time, or simply have leftovers, there are steps you can take to ensure that the pork chops stay juicy and delicious.
To make-ahead, marinate the pork chops for up to 24 hours in the fridge. Once marinated, wrap the chops tightly with plastic wrap and keep them in an airtight container until ready to grill. This will allow the flavors to develop and result in even juicier pork.
If you have leftovers, store the cooked pork chops in an airtight container or wrapped with foil in the fridge. Cooked pork chops can last up to four days in the fridge if stored properly.
To reheat, place the cooked pork chops in a microwave-safe dish with a tablespoon of water. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and microwave for 30 seconds on high for each chop. Alternatively, heat them up on a skillet over medium-high heat for three to five minutes per side. Make sure to brush some olive oil or vegetable oil before reheating to prevent the meat from drying out.
Another way to enjoy leftover pork chops is by adding barbecue sauce or making honey glazed pork. You can also slice the leftover cooked pork chops and add them to salads or sandwiches. The possibilities are endless.
With these tips, you can make ahead and store your juicy grilled pork for easy weeknight dinners or even lunches on-the-go. Always ensure proper disposal of cut raw meat as it is not safe to consume if stored improperly.
Tips for Perfect Results
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, as you want to ensure that they are cooked through yet still juicy and tender. To help you achieve perfect grilled pork chops every time, here are some tips and tricks:
1. Marinate or Brine the Pork Chops
Marinating or brining the pork chops before grilling them can add flavor and help keep the meat tender and juicy. You can try marinating the pork chops in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic cloves, lemon pepper seasoning, and water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Alternatively, you can brine the pork chops in a mixture of salt, water, and sugar overnight.
2. Use High Heat
Grilled pork chops are best cooked over high heat to get that delicious charred flavor on the outside while keeping them juicy on the inside. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat before adding your pork chops.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pork Chops
Nothing ruins a good pork chop like overcooking it! To ensure that your pork chops are perfectly cooked through but still juicy, cook them for around 3-4 minutes per side on medium-high heat, depending on their thickness. Use a meat thermometer if you’re not sure if they’re done (145°F for medium-rare and 160°F for medium).
4. Let Them Rest
After taking your grilled pork chops off the heat, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicier and more flavorful pork chops.
5. Experiment with Different Sauces and Seasonings
While salt and pepper are classic seasonings for grilled pork chops, don’t be afraid to experiment with different sauces and seasonings to find your perfect combination! You can try brushing honey garlic or barbecue sauce over your cooked pork chops or serving them with a side of soy-glazed vegetables.
Follow these tips for perfect grilled pork chops every time!
FAQ
As with any recipe, there may be some questions that come up during the cooking process. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about this grilled pork chops recipe.
How do you grill pork chops without drying them out?
Getting perfect pork chops on the grill takes some technique. To avoid them getting dry, you want to cook them at a high heat level and for a shorter period. This technique ensures that they’ll develop a delicious seared exterior while retaining all their juicy flavors inside.
What is the secret to grilling pork chops?
For perfectly grilled pork chops, first wipe them dry using paper towels. Next, generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and any preferred spice rub. I often use a homemade blend of paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar for a smoky-sweet flavor. Before placing them on the grill, brush the pork chops lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
Set the grill to high heat and place the pork chops on the hot side. Allow them to cook for about 4 minutes, and avoid moving or flipping them during this time to ensure a nice sear. Once the chops easily release without sticking, flip them over to the other side using tongs. Cook for an additional 4 minutes to achieve a golden-brown color and perfect doneness. With these steps, your grilled pork chops will be juicy and full of flavors.
How long should pork chops cook on the grill?
One incredible way to cook pork chops is by grilling them directly over heat, with the lid closed. You will know they are ready when they get a beautiful marking all over, which should take around 8-12 minutes total, turning them only once. To keep them moist and tender, let the chops remain slightly pink in the middle and reach a temperature of at least 140°F. Finally, let them rest for about 5 minutes before cutting, allowing the flavors of the juices to infuse into the meat. Then, serve and enjoy the savory taste!
How should I cook pork chops on the grill?
To start, we need to heat up a grill or a grill pan to medium heat. After seasoning the pork chops with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper, we can place them on the grill. It’s important to let them cook until they release from the grill, which usually takes around 4 minutes. Once that happens, we can flip them over and cook for an additional 3 minutes on the other side.
Bottom Line
As you can see, this grilled pork chops recipe is incredibly easy to make and comes out simply delicious. The juicy grilled pork that results from following these step-by-step instructions will have your family and friends begging for more.
Whether it’s for a casual summer barbecue, a weekend grill-out or even a midweek meal option, this pork chops recipe is perfect for satisfying your cravings and impressing your guests.
Plus, with the ability to make substitutions and variations to fit your tastes and preferences, there’s no reason to not try out this recipe.
So why settle for just any ordinary pork chop when you can have the best grilled pork chops around? Give this recipe a try and taste its mouthwatering goodness for yourself. Trust me – you won’t be disappointed!
Best Grilled Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup light soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 pork loin chops, fat removed
Instructions
- In deep bowl mix all marinade ingredients.
- Marinate at least 2 hours.
- Remove from marinade and cook over medium-high heat on greased grill for no more than 15 minutes or until done. Cooking time for second side is shorter by 1-2 minutes. 3/4" or thinner, 5-6 minutes maximum per side, thicker than 3/4" 6-7 minutes maximum per side. DO NOT OVER_GRILL, chops will become tough. After 2 minutes grilling on a side, rotate chops 45 degrees for even cooking. Turn over when juices pool on upper surface and meat appears to be cooked half-way through.
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Nutrition
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Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.