Introduction
Grilling bone-in pork chops can transform a simple meal into a delightful feast. This recipe takes you through the steps to create perfectly grilled pork chops that are flavorful, juicy, and sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and some preparation, you can enjoy this savory dish that’s great for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 4 bone-in pork chops (1½ inches thick, center-cut, 8 oz. each)
– Kosher salt
– Freshly ground black pepper
– Dry rub seasoning for pork (optional)
Prep Time
30 minutes to 1 day (includes marinating time)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12-18 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour to 1 day (including marination)
Yield: 4 servings
Instructions
1. Line a rimmed sheet pan with aluminum foil.
2. Liberally sprinkle pork chops with kosher salt (and dry rub seasoning, if using), and refrigerate for 1-24 hours.
3. Remove the pork chops from the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling.
4. Sprinkle the pork chops lightly with freshly ground black pepper and kosher salt.
5. Heat coals until all charcoal is covered with ash and push the coals to cover one half of the grill. Set the grate in place and cover the grill for 5 minutes to preheat.
6. Clean and oil the grilling grate.
7. Place the pork chops over the hot side of the grill and cook for 3-5 minutes until golden brown on the bottom side. Flip the chops and grill for another 3-5 minutes until browned on the other side.
8. Transfer the chops to the cool side of the grill with the bone side facing the fire. Cover, cook, and flip the chops in one-minute intervals until the meat registers 135°F on an instant-read meat thermometer at the thickest part.
9. Remove the chops from the grill. After allowing the meat to rest for 10 minutes, the internal temperature should rise to 145°F.
10. Serve and enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a rimmed sheet pan with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier after marinating the pork chops.
Season the Pork Chops
Liberally sprinkle the pork chops on both sides with kosher salt. If desired, add dry rub seasoning for additional flavor. Place the seasoned pork chops in the refrigerator for a minimum of 1 hour and up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Pre-Grill Preparation
Remove the pork chops from the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling to allow them to come closer to room temperature. This will help them cook more evenly.
Final Seasoning
Just before grilling, lightly sprinkle the pork chops with freshly ground black pepper and a touch more kosher salt for enhanced flavor.
Prepare the Grill
Heat the coals until they are completely covered with ash. Once ready, push the coals to one side of the grill, creating a hot side and a cool side. Set the grilling grate in place and cover the grill for about 5 minutes to preheat.
Clean and Oil the Grate
Before placing the pork chops on the grill, clean the grate with a grill brush and oil it lightly to prevent sticking.
Grill the Pork Chops
Place the pork chops over the hot side of the grill. Grill for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown on the bottom side. Flip the chops carefully and grill the other side for another 3-5 minutes until browned.
Move to the Cool Side
Transfer the pork chops to the cool side of the grill with the bone side facing the fire. Cover the grill and continue cooking, flipping the chops in one-minute intervals, until the internal temperature reaches 135°F at the thickest part using an instant-read meat thermometer.
Rest the Pork Chops
Once the chops have reached the desired temperature, remove them from the grill. Allow them to rest for 10 minutes; during this time, the internal temperature will rise to about 145°F.
Serve
After resting, serve the grilled pork chops and enjoy your meal!
Notes
Marinating Time
The longer you can marinate the pork chops in salt and seasoning, the more flavorful they will be. A minimum of 1 hour is recommended, but overnight is ideal.
Temperature Check
For accuracy, ensure that you insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chop without touching the bone for an accurate reading.
Resting Period
Allowing the pork chops to rest after cooking is crucial for retaining their juiciness, as this lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a grill, you can also pan-sear the pork chops in a hot skillet and finish them in a preheated oven until they reach the desired internal temperature.
Cook techniques
Brining
Brining pork chops in kosher salt and optional dry rub seasoning for several hours enhances flavor and tenderness.
Prepping the Grill
Prepare the grill by heating coals until covered in ash, and then arranging them for direct and indirect cooking zones.
Grilling
Start by grilling pork chops over high heat to achieve a golden brown crust before moving them to a cooler area to finish cooking.
Monitoring Temperature
Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the chop, aiming for 135°F before resting.
Resting the Meat
Let the grilled pork chops rest for 10 minutes after cooking, allowing the internal temperature to rise and juices to redistribute.
FAQ
How do I know when the pork chops are done?
Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F after resting.
Can I use other seasonings besides kosher salt and dry rub?
Yes, you can experiment with various herbs and spices according to your taste preferences.
How long should I let pork chops rest after grilling?
Allow the pork chops to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
What should I serve with grilled pork chops?
Grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement grilled pork chops well.
Can I grill pork chops if they are frozen?
It’s best to thaw pork chops before grilling for even cooking; however, you can grill them from frozen with adjusted cooking times.
Conclusion
Grilling bone-in pork chops to perfection is all about seasoning and technique. By allowing the chops to marinate with salt and any preferred dry rub, you enhance their flavor and tenderness. The use of a two-zone grill method ensures even cooking, allowing you to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust while keeping the meat juicy. Enjoy your deliciously grilled pork chops!
Herbed Garlic Butter
Consider topping your pork chops with herbed garlic butter for an added flavor punch. Mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like parsley and thyme, and a sprinkle of lemon juice.
Citrus Marinade
Try marinating the pork chops in a mixture of orange juice, lime juice, and garlic for a tangy twist. This will not only add flavor but also help tenderize the meat.
Apple Cider Glaze
A sweet apple cider glaze made by simmering apple cider with brown sugar and mustard can be brushed on the chops during the last few minutes of grilling for a deliciously sweet and tangy finish.
Pineapple Salsa
Serve the pork chops with a fresh pineapple salsa, combining diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño for a vibrant and zesty topping that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the meat.
Grilled Vegetables
Accompany the pork chops with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus, which make a colorful and healthy side that complements the smokiness of the meat.
Sweet Potato Mash
For a hearty side, try a creamy sweet potato mash. Add butter, salt, and a hint of cinnamon for a warming touch that balances the savory pork chops.
Classic Coleslaw
A refreshing classic coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy mayonnaise dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the juicy pork chops.
Honey Mustard Sauce
Drizzle honey mustard sauce over the grilled pork for a sweet and tangy flavor combination that enhances the meat’s natural richness. Mix equal parts of honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a simple sauce.
