Save
This BBQ Pork Chops recipe is a go-to for summer grilling. Thick bone-in chops are seasoned with a smoky spice blend then grilled to juicy perfection and finished with a generous glaze of caramelized barbecue sauce. It is a reliable crowd-pleaser that never disappoints and takes less than forty minutes to make from start to finish.
I made this the first time during a neighborhood block party and everyone asked for the recipe. Now it is my favorite way to start grilling season every year.
Ingredients
- Bone-in pork chops: about 1 inch thick essential for keeping the meat juicy and flavorful during grilling
- Kosher salt: enhances the pork’s natural flavor without overpowering it
- Coarse ground black pepper: adds a bit of kick and texture
- Garlic powder: provides aromatic depth without burning on the grill
- Onion powder: gives a subtle sweet pungency that rounds out the spice blend
- Ground paprika: offers a warm smoky base that pairs perfectly with barbecue sauce
- Vegetable oil: helps the spice rub adhere and prevents sticking to the grill
- Barbecue sauce: choose a thick variety with balanced sweetness and tang this forms the final layer of flavor and caramelizes beautifully
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Grate and Season:
- Combine the salt pepper garlic powder onion powder paprika and oil in a bowl. Rub the mixture all over the pork chops ensuring every surface is coated. Let them sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to absorb the flavors and temper the meat before grilling.
- Grill the Chops:
- Heat your grill or a heavy grill pan over medium-high. Once hot place the pork chops on the grill. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes per side flipping only once to get nice grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to confirm they have reached an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Glaze with Barbecue Sauce:
- Brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce over the pork chops. Place them back on the grill or under the broiler on high for one to two minutes. This step creates a rich sticky glaze as the sugars in the sauce caramelize.
Save
My kids love this with extra barbecue sauce on the side and we usually pair it with corn on the cob and a chilled salad. The paprika is my favorite ingredient here it adds that classic barbecue depth without needing a smoker.
Storage Tips
Leftover pork chops keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat place them in a 300 degree oven wrapped in foil until warm. Avoid microwaving as it can make the meat rubbery.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use boneless pork chops if needed but reduce the grilling time by a couple of minutes per side. Smoked paprika is a flavorful upgrade if you want a more pronounced barbecue taste. Avocado oil can stand in for vegetable oil if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside grilled vegetables potato salad or baked beans for a classic barbecue spread. These pork chops also make great sandwiches when sliced and layered onto toasted buns with slaw.
Save
Cultural Historical Context
Grilled pork chops have been a staple of American backyard cooking since the rise of charcoal grills in the mid twentieth century. The use of sweet tangy sauces in barbecue is rooted in Southern traditions and varies by region but the concept of glazing meat over fire spans global cultures.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep pork chops juicy on the grill?
Use bone-in chops and marinate them for at least 20 minutes. Grill over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking.
- → What internal temperature should pork chops reach?
Pork chops should reach an internal temperature of 145°F, followed by a brief rest before serving.
- → Can I use boneless pork chops instead?
Yes, but boneless chops may cook faster and dry out more easily. Adjust grilling time accordingly.
- → Is it necessary to broil or caramelize the sauce?
Caramelizing the sauce adds flavor and texture, but you can skip it if preferred. Just serve the sauce warm.
- → What sides go well with BBQ pork chops?
Try serving them with coleslaw, grilled corn, baked beans, or a simple green salad for balance.