Grilled pork chops are a classic and satisfying meal that’s perfect for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners. Juicy, flavorful, and slightly charred from the grill, these pork chops are seasoned simply to let their natural flavor shine. Whether you’re using bone-in or boneless chops, this recipe delivers a delicious result every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make on any grill
- Perfectly juicy and tender every time
- Great with a variety of marinades or dry rubs
- Pairs well with many side dishes
- Ideal for outdoor grilling or indoor grill pans
- High in protein and low in carbs
- Naturally gluten-free
- Easily doubles or triples for guests
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices
- A backyard BBQ favorite
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh lemon juice or vinegar (optional for added brightness)
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional)
directions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Pat pork chops dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork chops on both sides.
- Place pork chops on the grill and cook for 45 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Flip once, and grill until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Squeeze with fresh lemon juice or sprinkle with chopped herbs before serving if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Smoky BBQ: Add brown sugar and smoked paprika, and brush with BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.
- Herb Garlic: Add minced fresh garlic and chopped rosemary or thyme.
- Spicy Cajun: Use a Cajun seasoning blend for bold, spicy flavor.
- Asian-Inspired: Marinate in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before grilling.
- Lemon Pepper: Use lemon zest and cracked pepper for a fresh, zesty twist.
- Sweet & Savory: Glaze with a mix of honey and mustard in the final minutes.
- Grilled Fruit Topping: Serve with grilled peaches or pineapple for a tropical touch.
storage/reheating
- Storage: Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out.
- Freezing: Cooked pork chops can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
How do I keep pork chops from drying out on the grill?
Avoid overcooking and remove from the grill as soon as they reach 145°F. Letting them rest before serving helps retain moisture.
Should I use bone-in or boneless pork chops?
Both work well, but bone-in chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
Can I marinate the pork chops ahead of time?
Yes, marinate for 30 minutes to 8 hours for deeper flavor. Don’t over-marinate to avoid mushy texture.
What’s the best thickness for grilled pork chops?
1-inch thick chops are ideal for even cooking and juicy results.
Do I need to oil the grill grates?
Yes, lightly oil the grates before cooking to prevent sticking.
Can I grill pork chops indoors?
Yes, use a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for similar results.
What sides go well with grilled pork chops?
Grilled veggies, corn on the cob, potato salad, or coleslaw all pair beautifully.
How long should pork chops rest after grilling?
Let them rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to keep the juices locked in.
Is it safe to eat pork at 145°F?
Yes, USDA guidelines confirm that 145°F with a 3-minute rest time is safe for pork.
Can I use this recipe for other cuts of pork?
Yes, this seasoning and method work well for pork tenderloin or pork steaks too.
Conclusion
Grilled pork chops are a simple yet satisfying dish that never goes out of style. With the right seasoning and proper grilling technique, you’ll get juicy, flavorful chops every time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, this versatile recipe is one to keep in your regular rotation. Serve them with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, protein-packed meal.
Description
These juicy grilled pork chops are full of flavor and super easy to make. With a simple marinade and a quick sear on the grill, you get perfectly tender pork with a slightly smoky, charred finish. Pair them with your favorite sides for a hearty, satisfying meal.
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Make the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, brown sugar, paprika, pepper, salt, and lemon juice.
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Marinate the pork chops: Place pork chops in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for more flavor.
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Preheat grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
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Grill the chops: Remove pork from the marinade and shake off any excess. Grill for about 45 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
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Rest and serve: Let pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep them juicy. Serve with grilled veggies, salad, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
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For boneless chops, reduce grill time slightly.
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Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for extra flavor.
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Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking—pork dries out fast!
