Pork chops are a delicious and versatile meat that can be prepared in many ways. One of the most popular cooking methods is barbecuing or grilling pork chops, which allows the chops to develop a lovely char while keeping the interior juicy and flavorful. However, grilling pork chops can be tricky – if cooked too long they dry out, but undercooked and they are unsafe to eat. So how long should you barbecue pork chops to achieve the perfect balance of safe and tasty? Read on for the ultimate guide on determining grill times for moist, flavorful barbecued pork chops.

Introduction to BBQ Pork Chops

Pork chops come from the loin section of the pig and are a moderately tender cut of meat. Bone-in rib chops or center cut chops are best for grilling as the bone helps keep the meat juicy. Thinner chops cook faster while thicker chops will require more time on the grill but reward you with extra juicy meat.

There are a few factors that determine the ideal grilling time for pork chops:

Thickness – A thin 1⁄2 inch chop may only need 5-7 minutes total grill time while a thick 2 inch chop may require 15-18 minutes.
Bone vs Boneless – Bone-in chops take longer since the bone partly shields the meat. Boneless cook faster.
Cooking Temperature – Hotter grills shorten cooking time while low heat necessitates longer grill times.
Preparation – Marinated chops may cook slightly faster than plain chops. Chops at room temp also require less time than cold chops.
Doneness – For food safety, pork should reach an internal temp of at least 145°F which yields a lightly pink center. Going to 160°F gives you fully opaque meat. Taking these factors into account will help you determine the best grilling times for juicy, safe pork chops.

How Long Should You Grill Pork Chops?

Grilling times will vary somewhat based on the thickness and preparation of your chops. Here are general guidelines for how long you should expect to barbecue pork chops:

Thin Pork Chops

Thickness: 1⁄2 – 3⁄4 inches
Grilling Time: 4-7 minutes per side

Thin chops cook quickly so watch them carefully to avoid overcooking. Grill over direct high heat for best results.

Medium Thick Pork Chops

Thickness: 3⁄4 – 1 1⁄2 inches
Grilling Time: 8-12 minutes per side

The most common chop thickness. Cook over medium heat, moving to indirect heat if flare-ups occur.

Thick Pork Chops

Thickness: 1 1⁄2 – 2 inches
Grilling Time: 12-15 minutes per side

Thick chops will cook through without drying out since the inside has time to come to temperature without overcooking the outside. Grill over indirect medium heat.

Boneless Pork Chops

Thickness: 1⁄2 – 1 1⁄2 inches
Grilling Time: 4-10 minutes per side

Boneless chops cook faster than bone-in. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking. Can grill direct or indirect.

Marinated Pork Chops

Thickness: Any
Grilling Time: Decrease by ~10%

Acidic marinades like wine or citrus will help tenderize and speed cooking so marinated chops will grill slightly faster.

Frozen Pork Chops

Thickness: Any
Grilling Time: Increase by ~50%

Frozen chops will take significantly longer to thaw and cook through. Thaw completely before grilling or increase time over gentle indirect heat.

For food safety, always use a meat thermometer to confirm pork chops reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F. The USDA recommends allowing meat to rest for 3 minutes before serving as temperatures will continue rising.

Step-By-Step Guide to Grilling Pork Chops

Follow these simple steps for perfect barbecued pork chops every time:

1. Prepare the Chops

Trim excess fat and remove silverskin for better browning.
Brine or marinate for added moisture and flavor (optional).
Pat dry before grilling to help browning.
Rub lightly with oil or seasoning. Make sure surface is dry so seasoning adheres.
Allow meat to come to room temp for more even cooking.

2. Preheat Grill

For thin chops, heat grill to high (450-550°F).
For thicker chops, medium heat (350-450°) is ideal.
Clean grates and oil lightly to prevent sticking.

3. Grill the Chops

For direct heat, place chops directly over hot fire. Avoid flare-ups.
For indirect heat, position chops to the side of or above the coals/flame.
Flip chops halfway through grilling time. Avoid overhandling.
Move chops above indirect heat if cooking too fast over direct heat.

4. Check for Doneness

Test for doneness early to avoid overcooking.
Use instant-read thermometer to check internal temp in thickest part.
Remove from grill when internal temp reaches 145°F for slight pinkness.
If browned but under 145°F, move to indirect heat to finish.

5. Rest and Serve

Transfer chops to a plate and tent loosely with foil.
Allow to rest 3 minutes; temperature will rise another 5-10°F.
Don’t overcook during resting or chops will be dry.
Season additionally with salt, pepper, or spices to taste.

Following these simple steps will help you achieve moist, juicy grilled pork chops cooked to safe internal temperatures every time. Checking temperature with a thermometer is crucial for perfect doneness.

Common Grilled Pork Chop Questions

Grilling pork chops often brings up many questions for first-timers and grill masters alike. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

How do I know when pork chops are done grilling?

Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of your pork chops. They are safely cooked through at 145°F with a hint of pink in the center. For fully opaque chops, cook to 160°F.

Should pork chops be grilled bone side down first?

It’s actually best to grill pork chops bone side up first. This protects the tender meat from direct heat and allows the bone to shield the chop. Bone side down can lead to overcooking.

Can you grill pork chops from frozen?

It’s best to fully thaw pork chops before grilling for food safety and even cooking. If grilling frozen, use indirect heat and increase cooking time by about 50%.

Why do my grilled pork chops get burnt?

Chops can burn if grill heat is too high or flare-ups occur. Use indirect heat, reduce temperature, and move chops around if burnt spots develop. Lightly oil grates to minimize sticking and flare-ups.

How can I keep pork chops moist on the grill?

Marinate chops, allow meat to come to room temp before grilling, cook to proper doneness and allow the chops to rest after grilling for the juiciest results. Grilling over indirect heat also helps prevent moisture loss.

What is the best cut of pork for grilling?

Bone-in rib chops or center cut loin chops offer the ideal blend of tenderness and fat. Look for chops around 1 inch thick with some marbling or external fat for grilling.

Can you grill pork chops that were brined?

Yes, brining adds moisture and flavor to pork chops, helping keep them juicy on the grill. Rinse brined chops before grilling and pat dry to ensure proper browning. Adjust grill time slightly as brined chops may cook faster.

Proper preparation, cooking technique, and monitoring doneness with a meat thermometer are key to achieving succulent grilled pork chops with these common questions addressed.

Conclusion

Grilling pork chops yields a delicious meal but getting the cook time just right is essential. The ideal time to barbecue pork chops ranges from just 4-7 minutes for thin chops up to 15-18 minutes for very thick chops. Bone-in, marinated or room temperature chops will require slightly less time while frozen chops will need significantly longer on the grill. Always monitor thickness and cut to determine the proper grilling time. Use a thermometer to test for an internal temperature of 145°F for slightly pink pork or 160°F for fully cooked. Following the guidelines in this article will help you achieve perfectly juicy and safe barbecued pork chops. With the proper techniques, you’ll be able to impress guests with your grilled pork chops this summer.

How to Grill Pork Chops Like a Pro

When grilling pork chops, it can be tricky to achieve the perfect balance of browned exterior, tender interior, and safe temperature. By following professional techniques, you can learn how to barbecue pork chops that are juicy and flavorful each time.

Pick the Right Chop

For ideal grilling results, select bone-in rib or center cut chops that are about 1 inch thick. The bone adds moisture and prevents overcooking. Good marbling provides more flavor.

Proper Seasoning is Key

Season chops just before grilling to ensure spice adhesion. A simple dry rub of salt, pepper and spices is all you need. Avoid sugary sauces that can burn.

Get the Grill Ready

Heat your grill to medium-high, around 400°F. Clean the grates and brush them lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Place chops over direct heat to start.

Grill on Both Sides

Cook chops over direct heat for 2-3 minutes per side. This sears the outside and renders any fat. Move to indirect heat and flip occasionally until done.

Check for Doneness

Use an instant-read thermometer to test internal temperature in the thickest part. Remove chops between 145-150°F for a hint of pink.

Give Them a Rest

Let chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling. The internal temperature will continue to rise another 5°F or so as they sit. Don’t overcook during this resting period.

Add Extra Flavor

Consider a salty or acidic finish like flaky sea salt, a spritz of lemon, or a drizzle of Chile oil. This adds brightness to rich pork.

Avoid Pitfalls

Undercooking leaves pork unsafe while overcooking leads to dry, tough meat. Sticking causes burnt spots. Use the right heat, oil grates, flip only once, and rely on a thermometer.

With the right preparation, seasoning, techniques, and temperature monitoring, you can achieve restaurant-quality grilled pork chops easily at home. The key is paying attention to details like chop thickness, heat levels, doneness, and resting. Master these fundamental grill skills and you’ll be an expert in barbecuing juicy, flavorful pork chops.

How Long to Grill Pork Chops Based on Thickness

When grilling pork chops, one of the biggest factors determining cook time is the thickness of the meat. Understanding approximate grill times based on chop thickness is key to preventing undercooking or over drying.

1/2 Inch Thick

At just 1/2 inch, these chops are considered thin and will cook very quickly over direct heat. Grill for approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Watch them closely to avoid overcooking.Best for pan frying or sautéing.

3/4 Inch Thick

The most common chop thickness found at grocery stores. Grill over direct medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 145°F.

1 Inch Thick

A good thickness for grilling. Provides leeway to develop char while keeping interior juicy. Grill over direct heat for 8-10 minutes per side.

1 1/2 Inches Thick

These thick chops will stay moist thanks to the longer cooking time. Grill about 10-12 minutes per side over indirect medium heat.

2 Inches Thick

Extra thick pork chops are juicy and show-stopping but require more time on the grill. Cook approximately 12-15 minutes per side over indirect medium heat.

The precise times will vary based on other factors like bone vs. boneless, brining, frozen vs. thawed, and grill temperature. Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate doneness. Under 145°F risks undercooking while over 160°F leads to dryness. Adjust grill times for each batch of chops based on thickness and individual chops may vary. Paying close attention to time, temp, and thickness will result in perfect grilled pork chops every time.

How to Get Perfect Grill Marks on Pork Chops

When grilling pork chops, you likely want to achieve gorgeous grill marks that give the meat appetizing char and visual appeal. Here are professional tips for getting picture-perfect grill marks on pork chops.

Choose Bone-In Chops

Bone-in pork chops hold their shape better on the grill, preventing cupping or curling that can cause uneven grill marks. Center cut or rib chops work well.

Dry the Surface

Pat pork chops thoroughly dry before seasoning and grilling. Any moisture on the surface will steam and make it harder to brand the meat.

Oil the Grates

Right before grilling, brush the hot grates with a high smoke point oil. This prevents sticking for cleaner grill marks.

Sear Over Direct Heat

Start chops over direct high heat. The hot surface should sizzle when you add the meat. Don’t move them for at least 2 minutes to set grill marks.

Get Organized

Arrange chops neatly in rows, not clustered. Leave space between each one for distinct branding. Group similar thicknesses together.

Rotate Properly

Flip chops only once. Rotate 90 degrees to crosshatch for photogenic diamond marks. Don’t spin or move them too much.

Check Early and Often

Frequently check chops while grilling over direct heat. Remove promptly when the marks look deeply charred before burning.

Rest Before Serving

Let chops rest 5 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute evenly for better presentation.

With high dry heat, minimal handling, and careful monitoring, you can brand your grilled pork chops with beautiful sear marks that enhance visual appeal.

How Long Should You Let Pork Chops Rest After Grilling?

It’s important to let pork chops rest after grilling before slicing and serving. Here is a look at why resting is recommended and how long you should let pork chops sit after barbecuing.

Why Rest Pork Chops?

Allows juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat. Results in moister, more evenly cooked chops.
Allows the internal temperature to rise another 5-10°F as it continues cooking from residual heat. Ensures safe doneness.
Gives time for the proteins to relax after grilling. Produces more tender texture.
Provides you a window to finish side dishes or sauce before serving.

How Long Should You Rest Grilled Pork Chops?

The recommended resting time for grilled pork chops is 5 minutes. This gives ample time for the meat to complete the cooking process and for juices to settle.

Key resting tips:

Don’t let chops rest longer than 10 minutes or they can overcook.
Tent loosely with aluminum foil to retain heat while resting.
Don’t tightly wrap or chops may steam and lose crispiness.
Resist cutting into the meat right away or juices will spill out.
Use this window to make any sauce or finish side dishes.

The next time you grill up a tasty batch of pork chops, be sure to resist digging in right away and give them at least 5 minutes to relax. This simple step helps ensure the chops are cooked evenly, as juicy as can be, and perfectly tender when sliced to serve.

Cooking Methods for Pork Chops

While grilling may be one of the most popular preparation methods, pork chops are quite versatile and can be cooked using an array of different techniques. Here is an overview of some of the best cooking methods to try with pork chops:

Grilling

The high dry heat of the grill crisps the exterior while retaining moisture in the chop. Infuses delicious smoky flavor. Bone-in chops work best to prevent drying out. Grill over direct heat before moving to indirect heat to finish cooking.

Pan Searing

Searing pork chops in a hot skillet gives great caramelized flavor. Use a touch of oil and cook chops about 3-5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Finish in a 400°F oven.

Broiling

Broiling employs high top-down heat for crisping and color. Place chops on a broiler pan and broil 4-5 inches from heat, flipping once halfway through. Best for thin chops.

Baking

For a hands-off method, bake pork chops in a 375-400°F for 15-25 minutes depending on thickness. The dry heat of the oven produces lightly browned chops.

Air Frying

The super hot circulating air of an air fryer cooks chops fast and crispy. Rub with oil, season, and air fry at 380°F for 8-15 minutes flipping halfway, until 145°F internal temp.

Sous Vide

Vacuum seal seasoned chops and cook in a precision water bath at 140°F for 1-4 hours depending on thickness. Finish by searing. Maximize moisture.

Braising

Brown chops first then braise in flavorful liquid like broth, wine, or barbecue sauce at a simmer. Tenderizes and infuses flavor. Best for less tender cuts.

The ideal cooking technique depends on the thickness of the chops, time availability, desired flavor outcomes, and level of involvement in the cooking process. Pork chops are quite versatile, so don’t be afraid to try a new cooking method for delicious results!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Pork Chops

It’s easy to commit mistakes when grilling pork chops, especially if you’re a beginner. Learn how to avoid these common pitfalls for

How Long Do You BBQ Pork Chops? The Ultimate Guide