These BBQ pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! Grilled to perfection, they have that sweet and smoky sauce we all love. Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy dinners.
I can’t resist the smell of BBQ filling the air! They’re so easy to make, just grill and glaze. Serve them with corn on the cob for a complete meal that tastes like sunshine! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for their flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops or even pork loin. Just adjust the cooking time, as boneless chops cook quicker.
Barbecue Sauce: You can use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce for ease. If you want a healthier twist, try a homemade sauce with tomatoes, vinegar, and spices. For spicy lovers, adding a bit of hot sauce or chipotle can enhance the flavor.
Garlic Powder and Smoked Paprika: Both add depth of flavor. Substitute garlic powder with fresh minced garlic if you have it. For smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder can work in a pinch, though the smokiness will be less pronounced.
Olive Oil: It’s great for grilling, but you could swap it for canola or avocado oil, which have higher smoke points. This helps prevent burning while grilling.
How Do I Grill Pork Chops Perfectly?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but following a few simple tips can ensure they turn out perfectly juicy.
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding pork chops. A good sear helps lock in the juices.
- Don’t Rush the Flipping: Let the chops grill without moving them until they release easily. This usually takes 4-5 minutes.
- Baste While Grilling: Adding barbecue sauce multiple times creates a sticky and caramelized glaze. Brush it on when you flip the chops!
- Check Temperature: Using a meat thermometer is the best way to avoid overcooking. Aim for 145°F (63°C) to keep them juicy.
- Rest Before Serving: Let your chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.
With these tips, your BBQ pork chops will be bursting with flavor and moisture, perfect for any meal!
BBQ Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BBQ pork chops recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to grill, for a total time of roughly 30-35 minutes. That’s all it takes for a flavorful meal that will impress your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). This is an important step to get those perfect grill marks!
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will be your seasoning mix that adds wonderful flavor to the pork chops.
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and rub them all over with the olive oil. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork, making sure they are well coated.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Now, place the seasoned pork chops on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Look for nice grill marks before flipping!
5. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
Carefully flip the pork chops over and brush the grilled side generously with barbecue sauce. This will give them a lovely glaze.
6. Continue Grilling:
Grill the pork chops for another 4 minutes, then flip again and brush the second side with more barbecue sauce. Keep grilling and basting every couple of minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This usually takes about 12-15 minutes total.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting period helps redistribute the juices for a tender, juicy bite!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the pork chops with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Now, dig in and enjoy your juicy, smoky, sweet BBQ pork chops!
These pork chops are sure to be a hit at any gathering—tender, flavorful, and with that sweet BBQ glaze that everyone loves. Perfect for a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they will cook faster, so check the internal temperature a bit earlier, around 8-10 minutes total grilling time.
What Barbecue Sauce Works Best for This Recipe?
Any barbecue sauce you love can work! A sweet, tangy sauce complements the pork beautifully, but if you prefer a spicy kick, go with a spicy barbecue sauce. You can also mix and match to create your perfect blend!
How Long Should I Let the Chops Rest After Grilling?
Let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making them more tender and juicy when you cut into them.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Sear the pork chops in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side, then transfer to the oven for about 10-15 minutes, brushing with barbecue sauce halfway through, until they reach 145°F (63°C).
