These Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops are a real treat! With a yummy glaze that makes them sweet and smoky, they’re perfect for a summer cookout.
When I make these, my grill fills with the best smells, and everyone can’t wait to dig in. Pair them with a nice salad or cornbread for a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give great flavor and juicy meat. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too, just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out quicker.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that lovely glaze. If you need a substitute, use coconut sugar or honey—just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly.
Apple Cider Vinegar: For a tangy touch, but if you don’t have it on hand, white wine vinegar or even lemon juice can be used as an alternative.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a hint of smokiness to the chops. If you want a bit more heat, try chipotle powder instead. Regular paprika can also work, though it won’t have the same smokiness.
Honey: Adds sweetness, but maple syrup can be a nice substitute if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Make Sure My Pork Chops Don’t Get Dry?
To keep your pork chops juicy, marinating is key! The marinade not only flavors the meat but also helps retain moisture. Here are a few tips:
- Marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you have more time, 4-6 hours is best for flavor infusion.
- Preheat the grill properly and avoid opening it often. This keeps the heat steady and helps sear the meat quickly.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F, then let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to settle in the meat instead of running out.
By following these tips, your pork chops will come out tender and juicy, perfect for any meal!
Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 2 hours to marinate. After that, you’ll need around 10-12 minutes to grill the pork chops. Overall, plan on about 2 hours and 30 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), salt, and black pepper. Mix until the brown sugar is dissolved and all the ingredients are well combined. This will create a delicious marinade for your pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure each chop is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let them marinate for at least 2 hours, but 4-6 hours is even better for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s also a good idea to lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Prepare for Grilling:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Don’t forget to reserve some marinade for basting while grilling!
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Then, flip them over and brush some reserved marinade on top. Grill the other side for another 4-5 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for juicy pork chops with nice grill marks!
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once they’re done, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier bite. Finally, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs before serving!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops hot, and enjoy with your favorite Southern sides like grilled vegetables, cornbread, or coleslaw. Yum!
These pork chops are sure to bring a sweet and smoky flavor to your meal, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops for this recipe. Just remember they cook faster than bone-in chops, so keep an eye on the grill to avoid overcooking them!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want to reduce the heat, simply omit the cayenne pepper from the marinade. For a kick without too much spice, you can replace it with a pinch of black pepper or some mild paprika.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as too long can affect the texture of the meat.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or on a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture.
