These BBQ pork chops are juicy and packed with flavor! They’re coated in a delicious barbecue sauce that caramelizes as they cook, giving them a nice glaze.
Cooking these chops is simple: just grill or bake them and watch the magic happen! I love serving them with corn on the cob—perfect for summer barbecues!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but you can use boneless if that’s what you have. Just watch the cooking time as they cook faster.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite store-bought sauce works great! For a homemade option, mix ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, look for a vinegar-based one.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will work too, but you might miss out on that smokiness. You could also try ground chipotle for a spicy kick!
Herbs for Garnish: Fresh parsley or thyme adds a nice touch of freshness. You could also use rosemary if you like its strong flavor.
How Do You Get the Perfect Grill Marks on Pork Chops?
Getting perfect grill marks and a delicious crust on your pork chops requires some attention. First, make sure your grill is hot—this helps to sear the meat quickly. Don’t flip the chops too soon; let them sit undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes.
- When you place the chops on the grill, press them down slightly for contact, but don’t move them for those beautiful grill marks.
- Flip them once to avoid drying out; brush on that barbecue sauce to add flavor and moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), keeping them juicy.
This technique gives you a beautifully charred and flavorful pork chop every time!
BBQ Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a bit of heat)
- Fresh chopped parsley or thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish, including about 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for grilling. You’ll have delicious, perfectly cooked BBQ pork chops ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
First things first, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). If you’re opting to use an oven, preheat it to the same temperature and get a baking sheet ready with a rack set on top.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown better on the grill. Then, season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder if you’d like a little extra kick.
3. Add Olive Oil:
Brush olive oil on both sides of the pork chops. This not only prevents them from sticking to the grill but also helps them get that beautiful golden-brown color.
4. Start Grilling:
Now, place the pork chops on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them. This will create those tasty grill marks that everyone loves!
5. Flip and Sauce Up:
Once you have those nice grill marks, flip the pork chops over. Brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce on the cooked side and let them cook for another 4-5 minutes.
6. Final Flip and Sauce:
Flip the pork chops one last time and brush the other side with barbecue sauce. Keep grilling for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your pork chops juicy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your BBQ pork chops hot with your favorite sides, such as grilled corn, coleslaw, or baked potatoes.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful, and perfectly charred BBQ pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe! Just keep in mind they will cook faster, so check them around the 4-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No problem! You can make a quick homemade sauce by mixing ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and your favorite spices. Or simply season the chops with a dry rub and grill them without the sauce!
How Can I Tell When the Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to check for doneness is with a meat thermometer. Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are safe to eat and still juicy!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops for a few hours or overnight will enhance their flavor. Just be sure to keep the barbecue sauce separate until grilling to prevent burning!
