These Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a summer barbecue! A tasty blend of sweet marinade makes them a hit with everyone.
Grilling these chops always reminds me of family gatherings. Just think about the delicious smell filling the air! I can’t resist serving them with some fresh corn on the side. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops offer more flavor and tenderness than boneless. If you prefer, boneless pork loin chops work too. They will be just as delicious, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Brown Sugar: This adds a deep sweetness, but if you’re out, you can use white sugar or coconut sugar. Remember, using white sugar will have a milder flavor. Brown sugar also contributes to the glaze’s color, so adjust accordingly.
Honey: It’s a natural sweetener that pairs well with pork. If you want a vegan option, try maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness and flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess! If you don’t have it, you can substitute with white vinegar or lemon juice for that zesty kick.
Smoked Paprika: It gives the chops a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works, but you won’t get the smokiness. A pinch of liquid smoke can also replace it.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but with a little attention, you can get them just right! Here’s how to ensure your chops turn out juicy and flavorful.
- Marinate for flavor! The longer you let them sit, the better they’ll taste. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best.
- Preheat the grill! Get it hot before placing the chops on. This helps create those beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture.
- Monitor cooking time! Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, using the reserved marinade for basting. This keeps them moist while building that sweet glaze.
- Check the temperature! Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C). This guarantees they are cooked through but still juicy.
- Let them rest! After grilling, let the chops sit for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a tender bite.
Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation, and you’ll want to allow at least 2 hours for marinating the pork chops. Grilling will take about 10-12 minutes. Overall, plan for a minimum of 2 hours and 20 minutes to ensure those flavors soak in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. This mixture will create a sweet and tangy marinade to flavor the pork.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and put it in the refrigerator. Let them marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you have the time, overnight is best for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 204°C). To prevent the pork from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Keep the marinade for basting later. Place the pork chops on the hot grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. As they cook, baste the chops with the reserved marinade to create a delicious glaze.
5. Check for Doneness:
Grill the chops until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), and you see nice grill marks and a charred exterior. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes total.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs before serving.
Enjoy these delightful juicy, sweet, and smoky Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops alongside your favorite Southern sides, like grilled asparagus and cherry tomatoes!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just remember that they may cook faster, so start checking for doneness a couple of minutes earlier than the suggested cooking time.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. If you marinate for more than 4 hours, ensure they’re in the fridge to keep them safe.
What Sides Pair Well with Southern Sweet Grilled Pork Chops?
These pork chops go great with a variety of Southern sides! Consider serving them with grilled asparagus, coleslaw, cornbread, or even a fresh tomato salad for a complete meal.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on a stovetop skillet over low heat to maintain their juiciness.
