These Grilled Brown Sugar Pork Chops are sweet, juicy, and full of flavor! The brown sugar gives them a tasty caramelized crust that makes them hard to resist.
Trust me, your grill will thank you for this treat! I love serving these with a side of fresh veggies. They’re not just easy to make, but also make dinner feel special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for grilling as they stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer or need a leaner option, boneless chops work too. Just watch the grilling time since they cook faster!
Brown Sugar: The brown sugar gives the chops a sweet crust. If you’re out, you can use white sugar, but it won’t have the same deep flavor. You might also try coconut sugar for a different taste.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds a wonderful umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. If you prefer less sodium, look for low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Garlic & Onion Powder: These add depth to the flavor. You can substitute fresh minced garlic and onion for a stronger taste, using about 1 clove of garlic and about 1 tablespoon of finely chopped onion.
Fresh Thyme: Thyme is optional but highly recommended for a fresh taste. If you don’t have it, you can use dried thyme or skip it altogether.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops are Juicy and Not Overcooked?
To keep your pork chops juicy, proper marinating and grilling are key. Here’s how:
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is better. This helps deepen the flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear on the outside.
- Don’t flip the chops too often. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, then check the internal temperature should be 145°F.
- Let the chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled 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 olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and requires a marinating time of at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. Grilling the pork chops will take about 10 minutes, so plan for a total of roughly 50 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes, depending on how long you decide to marinate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed, so your pork chops get plenty of flavor!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Pop them in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting them sit for 1 to 2 hours will bring out even more flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
As your pork chops marinate, get your grill ready. Preheat it to medium-high heat, about 400°F, so it’s nice and hot for grilling!
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Once the grill is ready, take the pork chops out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Now, place the pork chops directly on the hot grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a lovely caramelized crust and an internal temperature of 145°F.
5. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy and delicious. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if you’d like, and serve alongside your favorite sides like grilled asparagus or sweet potato mash!
Enjoy your juicy, sweet-tangy, and perfectly charred Grilled Brown Sugar Pork Chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they will cook faster than bone-in chops, so check for doneness a minute or two earlier. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.
What If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar, but the flavor will be less rich. For a healthier option, try coconut sugar, which has a similar taste profile.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork Chops?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is good, but for the best flavor, aim for 1 to 2 hours. If you’re short on time, even a quick 15-minute soak can still add some flavor!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to keep them tender and avoid drying them out.
