Ah, summer is here, and you know what that means—grilling season! I can’t help but get giddy at the thought of searing meats on a smoky grill. One of my absolute favorite things to toss on the grates? Grilled & BBQ Pork Chops! These delightful cuts of meat are juicy, flavorful, and have that perfect char that just screams ‘get out your picnic blanket and enjoy life.’
Let me tell you, there is nothing better than the aroma of pork chops sizzling away while I set up my outdoor dining area. I have so many fond memories of our family BBQs, each one filled with laughter, great food, and sometimes a little too much sangria! So, gather around my friends, and let’s get to grilling these beautiful pork chops that are perfect for any summer get-together or just a casual weeknight dinner.
What’s in Grilled & BBQ Pork Chops?
– Pork Chops: I usually go for bone-in pork chops that are about 1-inch thick. The bone adds flavor and moisture during grilling, making for a tender bite. Trust me; there’s something special about sinking your teeth into a juicy chop!
– Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the marinade to stick beautifully to the meat. Plus, it’s a healthier fat option!
– BBQ Sauce: You can use your favorite brand, or even better, whip up your own for a personal touch! I like a tangy, not overly sweet sauce that complements the smoky flavor of the grill.
– Garlic Powder: Because let’s be honest, garlic makes everything better! It infuses a lovely depth of flavor into the marinade.
– Onion Powder: This adds a sweetness that balances out the savory elements nicely.
– Smoked Paprika: Just a bit of this gives a wonderful smoky flavor that’s perfect for grilling. If you want an extra kick, you can experiment with spicy paprika!
– Salt and Black Pepper: Don’t forget these pantry staples! They enhance all the other flavors in your marinade.
– Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb adds a pop of color and freshness to your plated dish.
– Lettuce or Greens: These can serve as a lovely bed for your pork chops and add a refreshing crunch!
Is Grilled & BBQ Pork Chops Good for You?
Absolutely! These grilled pork chops can be a wholesome part of your meal.
– Pork Chops: They are a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Plus, they contain important vitamins and minerals like zinc and vitamin B12.
– Olive Oil: This healthy fat is packed with antioxidants and has been shown to be heart-healthy.
That said, if you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of how much BBQ sauce you use. While it’s delicious, store-bought BBQ sauces can sometimes be high in added sugars and sodium. Consider making your own if you want one that’s tailored to your health needs.
Ingredients
– 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lettuce or greens (for serving)
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Grilled & BBQ Pork Chops?
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
3. Rub the marinade generously over both sides of each pork chop and let them sit for 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4. Once the grill is hot, place the pork chops on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, until grill marks appear and the meat is seared.
5. Flip the pork chops and brush them with additional BBQ sauce. Grill for another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
6. Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
7. Serve the grilled BBQ pork chops on a platter lined with lettuce or greens, garnished with fresh parsley, and with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Make it Your Own!
Feel free to play around with the flavors! Want to spice it up? Add some cayenne pepper to the marinade. Prefer a citrus twist? Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the chops before grilling. You could even switch up the greens—think arugula or spinach for a little pepperiness or a vibrant kale salad on the side.
I can hardly wait for you to give these Grilled & BBQ Pork Chops a try! If you whip up a batch, let me know how they turn out. I’m guessing they’ll disappear pretty quickly, just like they do at my house. Happy grilling!
