What To Know
- Place the seasoned pork chops on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are nicely browned and have good grill marks.
- Once the pork chops are cooked to your desired doneness, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Mastering the art of how to bbq grill pork chops takes practice, but with these tips and a little patience, you’ll be able to impress your friends and family with juicy, flavorful pork chops that are cooked to perfection.
Grilling pork chops is a summertime staple, but if you’re not careful, they can easily dry out or overcook. Follow these step-by-step instructions and tips to master the art of how to bbq grill pork chops that are juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection.
Selecting the Right Pork Chops
The quality of your pork chops will significantly impact the final result. Look for chops that are at least 1 inch thick and have a good amount of marbling (fat). Avoid chops that are thin or have excessive fat.
Seasoning Your Pork Chops
Seasoning is key to flavorful pork chops. You can use a simple salt and pepper rub, or get creative with marinades or spice blends. Here are a few ideas:
- Salt and pepper: A classic seasoning that never fails.
- Garlic and herb marinade: Combine olive oil, minced garlic, fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano), and a splash of lemon juice. Marinate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes.
- Spicy rub: Mix together chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Rub the mixture generously over the pork chops.
Prepping Your Grill
Prepare your grill for direct grilling over medium heat (350-400°F). You can use charcoal, gas, or electric grills. If using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn until they are mostly gray.
Grilling Your Pork Chops
- Grill the first side: Place the seasoned pork chops on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are nicely browned and have good grill marks.
- Flip and grill the second side: Flip the pork chops and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until they reach your desired internal temperature.
- Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops. They are cooked to medium-rare at 145°F, medium at 150°F, and well-done at 160°F.
Resting the Pork Chops
Once the pork chops are cooked to your desired doneness, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
Saucing and Serving
You can brush the pork chops with BBQ sauce or your favorite glaze during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor. Serve the pork chops with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or coleslaw.
Tips for Perfect Pork Chops
- Don’t overcook: Pork chops can dry out quickly, so be sure to monitor the internal temperature closely.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure that your pork chops are cooked to the desired doneness.
- Let the pork chops rest: Resting the pork chops allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: If you’re grilling multiple pork chops, make sure to give them enough space on the grill so that they can cook evenly.
- Experiment with different marinades: Marinating the pork chops adds flavor and helps keep them moist. Try different combinations of herbs, spices, and liquids to find your favorite.
Conclusion: Grill Master’s Delight
Mastering the art of how to bbq grill pork chops takes practice, but with these tips and a little patience, you’ll be able to impress your friends and family with juicy, flavorful pork chops that are cooked to perfection.
FAQ
Q: What is the best way to season pork chops before grilling?
A: You can use a simple salt and pepper rub, or get creative with marinades or spice blends. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
Q: How long should I grill pork chops?
A: The grilling time will vary depending on the thickness of the chops and the desired doneness. As a general rule, grill for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, and 4-6 minutes per side for medium.
Q: What is the ideal internal temperature for grilled pork chops?
A: The ideal internal temperature for grilled pork chops is 145°F for medium-rare, 150°F for medium, and 160°F for well-done.
Q: Can I grill pork chops without marinating them?
A: Yes, you can grill pork chops without marinating them. However, marinating helps add flavor and keep the chops moist.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with grilled pork chops?
A: Grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and baked beans are all great side dishes to serve with grilled pork chops.
