These grilled brown sugar pork chops are sweet, juicy, and super easy to make! The sugar caramelizes on the grill, giving them a tasty crust that everyone loves.
Honestly, they smell amazing while cooking! I like to serve them with a simple salad or some grilled veggies. It’s a meal that feels special without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Use bone-in pork chops for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer boneless, they work too. Just watch the cooking time since they may cook a bit faster!
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar is perfect here. They both add sweetness, but dark has a richer flavor. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup if you’re out of brown sugar.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option!
Dijon Mustard: This gives a nice tang. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard can work, just remember it’s milder in flavor.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a smoky vibe. If you lack it, regular paprika or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add some heat.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get them just right! Start by making sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps sear the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
- Pat the pork chops dry to help the marinade stick and prevent steaming.
- Let the excess marinade drip off before grilling to avoid flare-ups.
- Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring you only flip them once for nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
- Let them rest after grilling to keep them juicy.
With these tips, you’re set for delicious, caramelized pork chops every time!
Grilled Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and at least 30 minutes for marinating. Once you’re ready to grill, you’ll need about 10-12 minutes of cooking time. So, plan for around 50 minutes in total, which includes resting time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
First, grab a medium-sized bowl. Whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and olive oil until everything is mixed nicely and smooth.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Transfer the pork chops into a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are fully coated. Seal or cover the dish, and let the pork marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
3. Heat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent the pork from sticking.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them directly onto the hot grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip them over. Continue grilling for another 4-5 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). While grilling, you can brush them occasionally with leftover marinade for extra flavor and glaze.
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once the pork chops are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a beautiful finishing touch.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your juicy, sweet, and slightly smoky grilled brown sugar pork chops warm, paired with your favorite sides like grilled potatoes and green beans!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side.
What If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon molasses for every cup of white sugar). Alternatively, honey or maple syrup can also work in a pinch, just keep in mind it will alter the flavor slightly.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the pork chops when you’re ready to grill. This way, the flavors will have even more time to infuse.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, give them a quick warm-up in the microwave or on the stovetop to enjoy them again!
