BBQ pork chops are juicy and full of flavor, perfect for a sunny day or a cozy dinner at home. Just season them well and grill until they’re nice and crispy.
There’s something magical about that smoky BBQ sauce! I always make extra because it’s just too good not to slather on! 😋 Pair them with some corn on the cob for a tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful while cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops or loin chops would work too, but watch the cooking time closely!
Barbecue Sauce: Your choice of barbecue sauce can change the whole dish. For a sweeter flavor, use a ketchup-based sauce; for a spicier kick, go for a vinegar-based sauce. You can also make your own sauce easily at home!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. If you want a different flavor, you could use melted butter or any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil.
Spices: The smoked paprika gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works, or even cumin for a different twist. Don’t like spicy? Skip the chili powder or reduce its amount!
How Do You Grill Pork Chops Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but with the right steps, you can avoid dryness. Here are some tips:
- Use bone-in chops if possible—they hold moisture better than boneless.
- Let the chops sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t skip the seasoning! A good rub adds both flavor and moisture.
- Watch the cooking time carefully! Grill on medium-high heat for quick searing, then lower the heat to finish cooking through.
- Always check the internal temperature. Pull them off the grill at 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for 5 minutes to keep the juices in.
Keeping these tips in mind will help you serve perfectly juicy BBQ pork chops every time!
BBQ Pork Chops Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to cook on the grill, depending on your heat settings. So plan for around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If you’re using a grill pan on the stove, place it over medium-high heat to warm it up.
2. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. This will be your tasty dry rub.
3. Season the Pork Chops:
Using paper towels, pat the pork chops dry to remove excess moisture. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chops, then sprinkle the spice mixture over them. Make sure the chops are evenly coated with the rub.
4. Sear on the Grill:
Place the pork chops on the hot grill, letting them sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they have nice grill marks.
5. Brush with Barbecue Sauce:
Once seared, lower the heat to medium or shift the chops to a cooler area of the grill. Generously brush barbecue sauce on one side of the chops, grilling for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the pork chops over, and brush the other side with more barbecue sauce. Continue to grill until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the sauce becomes caramelized, about 2-3 additional minutes.
7. Let Rest:
Remove the pork chops from the grill and transfer them to a plate. Allow them to rest for 5 minutes, so the juices can distribute and the chops remain succulent.
8. Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives if you like. Serve your BBQ pork chops with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping, and enjoy!
These BBQ pork chops will be a hit at your dining table—juicy, flavorful, and boasting a delicious char from the grill!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes! Boneless pork chops can be used, but they tend to cook faster, so watch them carefully to avoid drying out. Consider reducing the grill time by a couple of minutes.
How Can I Make These Pork Chops Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, you can increase the amount of chili powder in the spice mix or add cayenne pepper. A dash of hot sauce in the barbecue sauce can also give it an extra kick!
What Should I Serve with BBQ Pork Chops?
BBQ pork chops pair beautifully with sides like coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, baked beans, or a simple salad. They also go great with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up any extra barbecue sauce!
How Do You Store Leftover BBQ Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at a low temperature or gently microwave until warmed through. You can add a little extra barbecue sauce to keep them moist!
