There’s something supremely satisfying about pork chops sizzling away on a grill. Grilled Pork Chops are a staple of outdoor cooking, offering a tantalizing blend of savory flavors and juicy tenderness that’s hard to resist.
But how do you transform this popular cut of meat into a mouthwatering masterpiece on the grill? Read on for the secrets of perfect grilled pork chops.
Why Pork Chops Shine on the Grill
Pork chops are ideal for grilling because of their balanced fat content. The fat not only imparts flavor but also helps keep the meat juicy and tender during the grilling process.
The direct heat from the grill sears the outside of the chops, creating a delightful crust that locks in flavor and moisture. Add a nice dry rub and you’ve got a pork chop that not only looks amazing, but tastes amazing too.
» You might also like these Juicy Grilled Lemon Basil Pork Chops or Honey Sriracha Pork Chops.
Grilling Temperature for Pork Chops
The key to perfectly grilled pork chops lies in the right temperature. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), followed by a three-minute rest. This temperature ensures that your pork is safe to eat and still juicy.
To achieve this, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, 375° – 400° F. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork chops towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
Grilling Time for Pork Chops
The grilling time for pork chops depends on their thickness. Generally, a 1-inch thick pork chop will take about 8-10 minutes per side on a preheated grill.
Thinner chops may need slightly less time, while thicker chops may require more. We usually cook a 2″ thick pork chop and it takes about 7 minutes per side to reach an internal temp of 140°F. We then remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes, and they come up to a perfect medium temperature of 145°F.
Ingredients You Need
- Pork Chops – Go for chops that are 1 1/2-2″ thick, bone in, that have some fat around the edge. If you pick chops that are very lean with no bone, they have a tendency to dry out on the grill.
- Dry Rub – Use your favorite pork dry rub. We have a great homemade pork rub here to try. Make sure it has a high salt content. If not, you might want to salt the chops as well.
- Salt and
Equipment Needed
- Grill – I use a Weber Genesis E325 for most of my grilling, though I also have a Z Grills Smoker/Grill combo that I sometimes use. You can use whatever grill you have, whether it’s gas or charcoal.
- Propane or Charcoal – Depending on your setup.
- Grill Tools – I swear by this set of sturdy grill tools from Cuisinart that includes everything you need for grilling, like tongs, a flipper, a digital temperature fork, silicone basting brush, and more.
- Meat thermometer – Many smokers have a thermometer built in, but if you don’t have one you’ll want to get an instant-read thermometer like this awesome Thermapen.
Thermapen ONE (read our review)
» Reading in one second or less
» Accuracy of ± 0.5°
» 5-year warranty
» Auto-rotate display; motion-sensing
» Insanely long battery life (2000 hrs)
How to Grill Pork Chops
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F), setting it up for two-zone cooking with one side for direct heat and the other for indirect heat.
Sprinkle the dry rub on all sides of the pork chops. Let them sit to soak up the rub for 5 minutes.
Lay the pork chops on the hottest part of the grill and sear each side for about 2 minutes.
Take the chops off the hot side and move them to the indirect heat. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature is 140°F for medium. If you wish to add BBQ sauce, baste the chops in the last 3 minutes of cooking.
Transfer the chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. The internal temperature should rise to 145°F.
Expert Tips for Grilling Pork Chops
- Choose the right chops: Look for pork chops that are about 1.5 – 2″ thick. These chops have enough heft to stay juicy on the grill.
- Season generously: Don’t be shy with your seasonings. Salt, pepper, and your favorite pork rub can all enhance the natural flavors of the pork. They need more salt than you might think.
- Sear then grill: Using a two-step method will ensure the best pork chops. First sear them at 400°F on direct heat, then grill them on 375°F over indirect heat to finish.
- Let them rest: After grilling, let your pork chops rest for at least 3 minutes before slicing into them. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
Our Top Grill Recommendation
Weber Genesis E325
I chose this grill based on quality, performance, and features. It’s pretty much got it all (large cooking area, plenty of BTU, high-quality cooking grates, and it’s priced well. If you’re feeling fancy, you can upgrade it to add more burners, smart grilling technology and grill lighting.
What to Serve on the Side
For sides, there is an endless array of salads and veggies that would make a good choice. Here are a few of our favorites:
Additional Recipe Notes
When it comes to grilling pork chops, experimenting with different marinades and seasonings can lead to a variety of delightful flavor profiles. From tangy BBQ sauce and sweet honey glaze to spicy rubs or herb-infused marinades, the possibilities are endless.
Finally, remember that practice makes perfect. Grilling is as much an art as it is a science, and the more you do it, the better you’ll become at achieving that perfect sear and juicy interior. So fire up that grill and let’s get cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you need to cook pork chops on the grill?
The grilling time for pork chops depends on their thickness. Generally, a 1-inch thick pork chop will take about 8-10 minutes per side on a preheated grill.
How do you grill pork chops without drying them out?
The key to perfectly grilled pork chops is to not overcook them and dry them out. The internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C), followed by a three-minute rest. This temperature ensures that your pork is safe to eat and still juicy.
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Perfect Grilled Pork Chops
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops 1-2” thick, bone-in
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) pork dry rub
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F), setting it up for two-zone cooking with one side for direct heat and the other for indirect heat.
- Sprinkle the dry rub on all sides of the pork chops. Let them sit to soak up the rub for 5 minutes.
- Lay the pork chops on the hottest part of the grill and sear each side for about 2 minutes.
- Take the chops off the hot side and move them to the indirect heat. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature is 140°F for medium. If you wish to add BBQ sauce, baste the chops in the last 3 minutes of cooking.
- Transfer the chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. The internal temperature should rise to 145°F.
Nutrition
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Laura is a passionate home cook and grill enthusiast who has spent years perfecting her culinary skills, with a particular focus on grilling techniques and flavor combinations. Her fascination with the grill, smoke, and the mouthwatering results they produce has led her on an exciting journey to discover the best methods for grilling delicious and unforgettable meals.