It’s easy to make grilled pork chops that are juicy and tender, you just have to know a couple of simple tricks.
I’m not lying. To make juicy, tender pork chops on the grill, there are really only two things you need to know. I learned how to do it and so can you. If you don’t have a grill, no worries. Here’s how I cook pork chops in a pan.
The challenge is that pork chops are relatively lean. They can have some fat near the bone, but overall, the meat is pretty fat-free. That’s good if you’re trying to be healthy, but it means that the slightest bit of overcooking can make your chops tough and dry. So what do you do?
How Long Do I Grill Pork Chops?
Don’t overcook it. Pork doesn’t have to be as well done as you might think.
According to the National Pork Board, go for medium-rare, not medium or even well done. If you’re checking with an instant read thermometer, that means 145-150°F. If you’re checking by touch, that means a chop that’s 1 and 1/4 inches thick (or less) should feel barely firm to the touch and definitely not rigid. So, use this if you want to roast pork or pork loin, too.
On my grill, that means 5 to 6 minutes per side, but use a thermometer or the touch method and calibrate the cooking time to your grill.
Should I Brine Pork Chops?
Yes, you should brine! I can’t recommend brining enough. It’s really easy to do, and it really helps any kind of lean meat, from pork chops to chicken breasts to turkey, stay juicy and flavorful. Especially if you’re cooking over a high, dry heat like you have with a grill.
If you prefer a marinade to add more flavor, try out this pork chop marinade recipe. It’s got brown sugar, soy sauce, mustard, and all sorts of delicious things.
How To Make Grilled Pork Chops
I suggest bone-in pork chops for this recipe. Boneless pork chops are more likely to dry out on the grill. It’s also best that your chops are at least an inch thick.
Prepare your grill for cooking over medium-high direct heat. Add your pork chops and cook for about 5 minutes per side. Close the lid of the grill while they cook. Once they are cooked, let them rest for a few minutes so you don’t lose all the juices. Then, it’s time to eat!
I like to grill some veggies with this since I have the grill going already. Of course, mashed potatoes are also a good side dish choice.
Follow my tips and you’ll have juicy, tender, perfect grilled pork chops every time. Oh, and if you happen to need some gravy, you don’t even need drippings with this gravy recipe.
More Ways To Cook Pork Chops
Grilled Pork Chops Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Entrée
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
DESCRIPTION
It’s easy to make grilled pork chops that are juicy and tender, you just have to know a couple of simple tricks.
Ingredients
- 4 pork rib chops, about 1 inch thick, ideally brined (see this post)
- 1/2 – 1 and 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Sprinkle the pork on both sides with 1/2 teaspoon salt (or 1 and 1/4 teaspoons if you didn’t brine) and pepper. Set aside.
- Prepare a grill for direct cooking over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.
- Add the pork chops, close the lid (for a gas grill) and cook 5-6 minutes. Flip, close the lid (for a gas grill) and cook to an internal temperature of 145°F, another 5-6 minutes.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Love this recipe? I’d appreciate it if you could scroll down and add a *5 star rating* to help others know they’ll love it as well!
This post originally appeared in June 2018 and was revised and republished in July 2022.