These Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops are juicy and packed with flavor! Coated in a sweet marinade, they are perfect for summer barbecues and have a lovely caramelized finish.
Grilling these chops is like a little backyard celebration! I love serving them with corn on the cob for the true summer vibe. It’s all about those mouthwatering bites! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are ideal for grilling as they stay moist and flavorful. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless pork chops can work, but be mindful of cooking time as they cook faster.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a little molasses or even honey as a substitute.
Paprika: I recommend smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, but sweet or regular paprika works too. If you prefer a kick, you can also use chili powder or cayenne, but adjust to your taste!
Apple Cider Vinegar: It balances the sweetness and tenderizes the meat. You can swap it with rice vinegar or even lemon juice for a different tang.
Honey: For a bit of extra sweetness. If you’re looking for a sugar-free alternative, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar instead.
How Do You Get the Perfect Grill Marks on Your Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops perfectly takes a few key steps. Start with a hot grill; this helps sear the meat and create those beautiful grill marks. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-204°C).
- Pat the chops dry before seasoning; this helps the rub adhere and form a nice crust.
- Once on the grill, make sure to leave them alone for about 4-5 minutes before checking. This helps develop that nice crust.
- When flipping, try to turn them only once for even cooking and those coveted grill marks!
And remember, let them rest after grilling to retain their juicy goodness. Enjoy your perfectly grilled pork chops!
Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons paprika (preferably smoked)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe involves about 15 minutes of active preparation time, but you’ll want to marinate the pork chops for at least 1 hour—ideally 2-3 hours or even overnight. Total time including grilling can be around 1 hour and 15 minutes, but the wait will be worth it for the flavors to develop!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dry Rub:
In a medium bowl, mix the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it) to create a flavorful dry rub. This combination will give your pork chops a delightful sweetness and depth of flavor.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the seasoning stick better. Rub the dry seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chop, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, and honey until well combined. This sweet marinade will help tenderize the meat and add even more flavor.
4. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the seasoned pork chops in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they’re all covered. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (2-3 hours recommended), or overnight for the best results.
5. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 375-400°F (190-204°C). A hot grill is key for searing the chops and achieving those perfect grill marks!
6. Grill the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade. Grill the chops for 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip them and grill for another 4-5 minutes. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safely cooked, juicy pork.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once grilled, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making every bite tender and juicy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the chops with chopped green onions before serving. They pair beautifully with classic Southern sides like grilled asparagus, corn on the cob, or a fresh tomato salad.
Enjoy your Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops with their delightful mix of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but be aware they cook faster than bone-in chops. Reduce the grilling time to about 3-4 minutes per side to prevent them from drying out.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave or on a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help retain moisture.
Can I Marinate for Longer Than 3 Hours?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops overnight can enhance the flavors even more. Just remember that acidic marinades (like those containing vinegar) can make the meat mushy if left too long, so 24 hours is usually the maximum recommended time.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with Southern staples like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled veggies like asparagus or zucchini. A fresh salad can also complement the meal perfectly!
