These hickory smoked pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! Grilling gives them a nice char while keeping them tender, making every bite a treat. Yum!
Pair these chops with a side of grilled veggies or mashed potatoes, and you have a meal that feels special. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Choose bone-in pork chops for added flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops also work well. Just remember, they may cook a bit faster!
Hickory Smoked Paprika: This gives your dish that delicious smoky flavor. If you can’t find it, regular smoked paprika or even sweet paprika is a good substitute. Just know the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Olive Oil: Provides moisture and helps the spices stick. If you’re out, feel free to use another oil, like vegetable or canola oil. I prefer extra-virgin olive oil for taste.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional but adds a nice kick! You can skip it if you prefer milder flavors or substitute with a pinch of black pepper instead.
Lemon Juice: Adds a bright flavor to the marinade. If you don’t have lemon, feel free to use lime juice or even a splash of vinegar for acidity.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Pork Chops for Juiciness?
To ensure your pork chops are juicy and tender, follow this grilling technique closely. It’s all about temperature and timing!
- Start by marinating the chops for at least an hour, but longer is better (even overnight). This enhances flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This gives you that nice sear while cooking the inside evenly.
- When grilling, aim for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 145°F (63°C) internal temp.
- Let the pork chops rest after grilling for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve perfectly juicy and flavorful pork chops every time! Enjoy!
Succulent Grilled Hickory Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon hickory smoked paprika (or regular smoked paprika)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (plus fresh sprigs for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional for marinade)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of active prep time, with an additional 1-4 hours for marinating the pork chops. Grill time is around 10 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 4 hours depending on how long you marinate—totally worth the wait for juicy flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, hickory smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), brown sugar, and lemon juice (if using). Stir until well combined to create a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps the marinade stick better. Rub the marinade evenly over both sides of each pork chop until well coated. Place the chops in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but ideally for 2-4 hours to really soak up those flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat, which should be around 375°F to 400°F. Make sure to clean and oil the grill grates to prevent the pork chops from sticking.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Place them on the hot grill. Grill the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want to see nice grill marks and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy pork.
5. Rest the Chops:
Once cooked, move the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even juicier!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your grilled pork chops with fresh thyme sprigs and chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving. Enjoy your succulent grilled hickory pork chops hot, paired with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad!
Dig in and enjoy the delicious smoky flavor and tenderness of these grilled pork chops! 🍽️
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! They will cook faster than bone-in chops, so be sure to monitor the grilling time closely—about 3-4 minutes per side should be sufficient for 1-inch thick boneless chops.
How Do I Know When Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Pork chops should have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). They will remain juicy and tender at this temperature, so avoid overcooking!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
What Should I Do with Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying them out.
