These BBQ pork chops are juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor! They’re coated in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce that makes them hard to resist.
Whenever I make these, I can’t help but smile thinking about the happy faces around the dinner table. Pair them with mashed potatoes, and you’re all set for a delicious meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for grilling as they stay juicy and tender. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work just fine. They’ll cook quicker, so just keep an eye on them!
Barbecue Sauce: You can use any store-bought sauce that you love or make your own! If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, try a low-sugar barbecue sauce or even a vinegar-based sauce for a tangy twist.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can work, although the flavor will be a bit different.
Cayenne Pepper: It adds heat, but if you’re making this for kids or those who prefer milder food, simply leave it out. You can also substitute with a pinch of black pepper for a different spice.
How Do You Get a Great Grill Mark on Your Pork Chops?
Getting those beautiful grill marks and flavors comes from high heat and careful timing. Here’s how:
- Ensure your grill is truly preheated to medium-high. This is key to searing the pork chops.
- Pat your pork chops dry before seasoning to help them sear better and prevent steaming.
- Place the pork chops down on the grill without moving them for the first 4-5 minutes to get those nice grill marks.
- When flipping, brush sauce on the cooked side so it caramelizes beautifully while it cooks on the other side.
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
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ pork chop recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook on the grill, plus a few minutes for resting. Total time is about 30-35 minutes, making it a quick and tasty option for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is around 400°F (204°C). This step is important for a nice sear on the pork chops.
2. Make the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if you want some heat. This mix will add amazing flavor to your pork chops!
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry. This helps them sear nicely on the grill. Brush both sides of each chop with the seasoning mix you just made.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they have beautiful grill marks. After flipping, cook for another 4-5 minutes.
5. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
Once the pork chops are halfway cooked, generously brush one side with barbecue sauce. Flip the chops again and brush the other side as well. You can always add more sauce as they cook!
6. Finish Cooking:
Continue grilling the pork chops, turning and basting with barbecue sauce every 2 minutes, for about 4-6 more minutes. The goal is to have the internal temperature reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly safe and juicy pork.
7. Let Them Rest:
After removing the pork chops from the grill, let them rest for about 5 minutes. This is a key step to keep the juices in and make them extra tender.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm BBQ pork chops alongside your favorite sides. You can sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a lovely finishing touch!
Enjoy your perfectly grilled, caramelized, and flavorful BBQ pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! They will cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Aim for a cooking time of about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No problem! You can cook these pork chops in a grill pan or on a stovetop skillet. Just make sure to heat the pan well before adding the chops for a good sear. You can also bake them in the oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the flavor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly after marinating, as some sauces can be quite salty.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the microwave or on low heat in a skillet, adding a bit of barbecue sauce to keep them moist.
