These grilled hickory pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! The hickory smoke gives them a warm, rich taste that is simply irresistible.
If you’re like me, you might end up making these more often than you planned. They’re easy to cook and pair well with almost anything. Just grab your favorite sides and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for grilling as they stay juicy and flavorful. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work well too. Just be sure to adjust cooking time since they may grill faster.
Marinade: The mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar brings out great flavors. You can use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. Honey can replace brown sugar, giving a nice sweetness.
Smoked Paprika: This key ingredient adds a lovely smoky flavor. If it’s not available, try regular paprika and add a dash of liquid smoke for that hickory taste. For people who like spicy food, a pinch of cayenne can add a little kick!
How Do You Get the Perfect Grill Marks and Juicy Pork Chops?
Getting those perfect grill marks and keeping the pork juicy is all about the preparation and cooking technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before you start cooking. This helps get those nice grill lines.
- Don’t flip the pork chops too soon! Give them about 5-7 minutes on each side without moving them, so they sear nicely.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pork should reach 145°F (63°C) to be safe and still tender.
- Letting the chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling is crucial. It keeps the juices inside, making every bite delicious.
Now you’re ready to make these delightful grilled hickory pork chops! Enjoy the process and the amazing results!
Succulent Grilled Hickory Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or hickory smoke seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
- Optional: corn on the cob or favorite grilled sides
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe involves about 15 minutes of active prep time and at least 2 hours of marinating time—preferably 4 to 6 hours for the best flavor. Once grilled, your total cook time will be around 15 minutes. So, plan on about 2 hours and 30 minutes for a delicious grilled dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. This marinade packs a big flavor punch, so be sure to mix it well!
2. Marinade 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 they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 2 hours. For best results, let them soak in the flavors for 4 to 6 hours!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s a good idea to lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in cooking oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade to keep everything safe. Now, place the pork chops on the grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on one side, until they have nice char marks.
5. Checking for Doneness:
After about 5-7 minutes, flip the pork chops and grill them for an additional 5-7 minutes on the other side. You’ll want the internal temperature to reach at least 145°F (63°C) for perfectly juicy pork. You can use a meat thermometer to check!
6. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute within the meat, so every bite is deliciously juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the grilled pork chops with fresh thyme sprigs for a touch of freshness. Serve them alongside your favorite sides, like grilled corn on the cob or seasonal vegetables. Enjoy these tender, smoky, and flavorful hickory pork chops that look beautifully charred and juicy, just like in the picture!
Happy grilling!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so adjust your grilling time to prevent them from drying out.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork Chops?
For the best flavor, marinating for at least 4 to 6 hours is recommended. However, if you’re short on time, a minimum of 2 hours will still add good flavor to the pork chops.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover grilled pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just marinate the pork chops for the recommended time!
