These grilled brown sugar pork chops are sweet, juicy, and packed with flavor! The brown sugar caramelizes beautifully on the grill, making each bite a tasty treat.
Nothing beats the smell of these chops sizzling outside! I like to serve them with some grilled veggies for a colorful plate. Just be careful; they may disappear quickly! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I prefer bone-in chops for their flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too. Just adjust cooking times as they may cook faster!
Brown Sugar: This is key for sweetness and caramelization. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with coconut sugar or use a sugar alternative like stevia, adjusting the quantity to taste.
Spices: Paprika adds color and a slight sweetness. If you want more heat, feel free to double the chili powder or add cayenne pepper. Always adjust spices to suit your family’s taste!
Olive Oil: While I love using olive oil, any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil will also work well. Just avoid strong-flavored oils so they don’t overpower the dish.
What’s the Key to Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
The secret to juicy and flavorful grilled pork chops lies in careful seasoning and cooking. Make sure to follow these steps:
- Pat the chops dry to help the rub stick better and allow for a nice sear.
- Use a generous amount of the brown sugar rub, ensuring it covers all surfaces.
- Preheat your grill completely; a hot grill helps to caramelize the sugar and creates those beautiful grill marks.
- Don’t flip the chops too soon! Let them cook undisturbed for the full 4-5 minutes on the first side to develop that crust.
Also, always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Good luck, and I hope your chops turn out fantastic!
Grilled Brown Sugar Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional sides: grilled pineapple slices and steamed green beans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 10-12 minutes to cook on the grill. With a total time of about 20-25 minutes, you’ll have tasty grilled pork chops ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade and seasoning stick really well, giving you that flavor punch when grilling.
2. Make the Brown Sugar Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if you’re using it). This sweet and spicy mix will add great flavor to your chops.
3. Season the Chops:
Drizzle olive oil over both sides of each pork chop, making sure they’re coated nicely. Then, take the brown sugar spice mixture and rub it all over the chops. Press gently to help it stick.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). A clean and oiled grill will help prevent the pork from sticking.
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the hot grill. Let them cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side without flipping them. This will create a delicious caramelized crust.
6. Flip and Cook:
After 4-5 minutes, flip the chops and grill for another 4-5 minutes. You want the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C) and see that lovely caramelized glaze from the brown sugar. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
7. Rest the Meat:
Once they’re done grilling, remove the chops from the heat and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step is super important—it helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it juicy and tender.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Just before serving, sprinkle the pork chops with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Pair them with optional grilled pineapple slices and steamed green beans, or any sides you love!
Enjoy your sweet, smoky, and juicy grilled brown sugar pork chops! They’re sure to be a hit at your next meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Check for doneness at around 3-4 minutes per side.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Brown Sugar?
If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of white sugar) to achieve a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, coconut sugar is a great substitute as well!
How Can I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave, covering them to retain moisture.
Can I Make a Marinade Instead of a Rub?
Absolutely! You can mix the brown sugar and spices with olive oil and a bit of vinegar or citrus juice to create a marinade. Marinate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) before grilling for extra flavor!
