How Long to BBQ Pork Chops: The Complete Guide - Outdoor Cabinets

Pork chops are a classic BBQ staple that are delicious when cooked just right. With a few simple tips, you can learn exactly how long to BBQ pork chops to get them juicy and flavorful every time. In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about bbq’ing pork chops from start to finish.

Selecting the Right Pork Chops

The first step is choosing what type of pork chops to bbq. Here are the main options:

Bone-in chops – These chops have part of the bone attached which adds flavor during cooking. The bone also helps the meat stay moist. Bone-in pork chops include rib chops and center-cut chops.
Boneless chops – Boneless chops cook faster since the bone is removed. However, they can dry out quicker. Look for thicker cuts to prevent overcooking.
Thick vs thin – Thicker chops are better for grilling since they won’t overcook as fast. Go for chops at least 1-inch thick. Thin chops should be pan-seared or baked instead.

For BBQ, bone-in rib or center-cut chops that are 1 to 2 inches thick work very well. The bone adds moisture and flavor when cooked low and slow over indirect heat.

Trim Excess Fat

Pork today is bred to be leaner than in the past. Still, some excess fat may need to be trimmed:

Use a sharp knife to trim thick chunks of fat around the edges.
Leave a thin layer of fat for moisture – about 1/8 inch.
If the fat cap on top is over 1/4 inch, trim it down for better browning.

Trimming just a bit of fat allows the pork chops to cook evenly. Don’t remove all the fat though as it bastes the meat and keeps it tender.

Seasoning the Pork Chops

Adding seasoning builds flavor in the meat. Here are tips for getting the seasoning just right:

Pat the chops dry before seasoning so spices stick better.
Use enough seasoning to coat all sides but don’t overdo it.
Try basic BBQ rubs or get creative with spicy cajun styles.
Let the seasoning penetrate at least 15 to 30 minutes before grilling.
Brining or marinating 12-24 hours before is even better for added moisture and flavor.

Seasoning well before cooking gives time for the flavors to soak in. Be careful not to over-salt pork as it can draw out moisture.

Setting Up the Grill

Proper grill setup is key for perfectly cooked pork chops:

Use indirect heat – This means no flames directly under the meat. Coals are only on sides.
Aim for medium heat – Between 300-375°F is ideal. Use a grill thermometer to check.
Clean the grates – Scrape off debris so chops don’t stick. Oil the grates too.

The indirect cooking method prevents burning while allowing the pork to cook gently. Medium heat ensures the interior cooks through without overcharring the outside.

How Long to Grill Bone-In Pork Chops

When using indirect heat between 300-375°F, here are general grill times:

1-inch thick – Grill for 14-18 minutes.
1 1/2-inches thick – Grill for 18-22 minutes.
2-inches thick – Grill for 22-26 minutes.

The times above are for bone-in chops at medium doneness. Thicker chops take longer since the heat needs to penetrate deeper into the meat. Check for doneness before removing from the grill.

How Long to Grill Boneless Pork Chops

Since boneless chops don’t have the insulating bone, they cook faster:

1/2-inch thick – Grill for 7-9 minutes.
3/4 to 1-inch thick – Grill for 10-14 minutes.
1 1/2-inches thick – Grill for 16-20 minutes.

Monitor boneless chops carefully and remove them as soon as they reach desired doneness. They can overcook quickly due to less insulation.

Checking for Doneness

Here are ways to test if your pork chops are done grilling:

Use an instant read thermometer – 145°F for medium rare, 160°F for medium.
Slice into the thickest part to check internal color. Light pink = medium rare, pink = medium.
Cut into a chop and check that juices run clear, not pink.
The exterior should be nicely browned. Chops will firm up when fully cooked.

Let chops rest 5 minutes before serving so juices can redistribute through the meat. The temperature will rise another 5°F – 10°F during resting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to over or undercook pork chops. Here are some common grilling mistakes to watch out for:

Cooking over direct high heat which burns the exterior before interior is done.
Removing from grill too early before safe temperature is reached.
Cooking too long over indirect heat which dries out the pork.
Putting sauce on too early which can burn due to high sugar content. Wait until the final 5 minutes.
Not monitoring thickness which requires adjusting cook times.

With the right techniques, you can avoid these issues and cook juicy, flavorsome bbq pork chops every time.

Serving Suggestions

Bbq pork chops make a stellar entree, especially when served with flavorful sides. Consider these ideas:

Top with a barbecue sauce glaze for the last few minutes on the grill.
Pair with hearty potato salad, beans, or macaroni and cheese.
For a simple meal, serve with grilled corn on the cob and a fresh garden salad.
For a southern-inspired dinner, try baked beans, collard greens, and cornbread.
Make pork tacos with shredded cabbage, pickled onion, and lime crema.

However you choose to serve them, juicy grilled pork chops straight from the barbecue make a satisfying meal any night of the week.

Common Questions about Grilling Pork Chops

How long per side do you cook pork chops on a grill?

For bone-in chops, figure 5-7 minutes per side over indirect medium heat. Boneless chops take less time at 3-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.

Should you flip pork chops more than once while grilling?

It’s not necessary to flip pork chops more than once. Flipping twice is sufficient to ensure even cooking. Resist the urge to flip constantly which can cause meat to dry out.

What is the best cut of pork for grilling chops?

For flavor and moisture, choose bone-in rib chops or center-cut chops. Make sure they are at least 1 inch thick for grilling. Avoid super lean boneless loin chops which can become tough.

Should you sear pork chops before indirect grilling?

Searing isn’t required since chops are already cooked over indirect heat. A quick sear at the end can help develop flavor. Avoid searing first or it may overcook the exterior before the inside is done.

How can you add smoke flavor when grilling pork chops?

To get smoky flavor, add soaked wood chips to the grill coals. Apple, hickory, oak, or pecan chips work well with pork. Avoid excessive smoke which can make the pork taste bitter.

Final Tips for Grilling Juicy Pork Chops

With the proper techniques, grilled pork chops can become melt-in-your-mouth tender and full of flavor. Here are some final tips:

Bring chops to room temperature before grilling for more even cooking.
Choose thicker chops so the inside can stay moist over indirect heat.
Let chops rest after grilling to allow juices time to redistribute through the meat.
Track grill times carefully based on thickness and bone vs boneless.
Use a digital thermometer to eliminate any guesswork on doneness.

Mastering the art of how long to bbq pork chops allows you to achieve chops that are tender, juicy, and packed with savory barbecue goodness. Get your grill fired up and enjoy this classic summer favorite.