These grilled hickory pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! With a smoky taste from the hickory wood, they are sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.
Cooking these chops always makes me feel like a top chef! I love pairing them with some grilled veggies and a simple salad for a fun summer meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for grilling as they stay juicier. If you can’t find them, use boneless chops, but adjust cooking time as they might cook faster.
Hickory Smoked Seasoning: This gives your chops that wonderful smoky flavor. If it’s unavailable, try a mesquite rub or a mix of paprika and liquid smoke for a similar taste.
Olive Oil: It helps the marinade stick and adds moisture. You can swap with other oils like canola or avocado oil if you wish, but olive oil has a lovely flavor.
Apple Juice: It adds a subtle sweetness and helps baste the pork chops. You could use apple cider, white grape juice, or even a bit of cider vinegar with water if you don’t have apple juice handy.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks on My Pork Chops?
Getting beautiful grill marks means using the right technique. Start with preheating your grill, as this is crucial for good searing. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure your grill is clean and hot, around 400°F (200°C).
- Place the pork chops on the grill and don’t move them for the first 4-5 minutes. This allows the grill to create those beautiful marks.
- After flipping, you can baste them with apple juice to add moisture and enhance the flavor, but don’t flip too often.
Timing is key; always use a meat thermometer to check doneness for juicy and tender results! Let the meat rest after grilling to keep the juices inside.
How to Make Succulent Grilled Hickory Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons hickory smoked seasoning or hickory spice rub
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup apple juice (for basting)
- Optional: Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus 30 minutes to 2 hours for marinating, and 10-12 minutes for grilling. In total, you should allow around 45 minutes to 2 hours and 10-12 minutes for the meal, depending on marination time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by taking the pork chops out of the refrigerator. Let them sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before you begin grilling. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Create the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the hickory smoked seasoning, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This marinade adds tons of flavor, so make sure it’s well combined!
3. Marinate the Chops:
Rub the marinade all over both sides of each pork chop. Make sure they’re nicely coated! For the best flavor, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator if you have time.
4. Preheat Your Grill:
Get your grill going! Preheat it to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Remember to clean the grill grates and lightly oil them so the chops don’t stick.
5. Grill the Chops:
When the grill is hot, place the pork chops on it. Close the lid and grill the first side for about 4-5 minutes. This creates those lovely grill marks. Then, flip the chops over.
6. Baste and Cook:
Continue grilling the other side for another 4-5 minutes. Make sure to baste the pork chops occasionally with apple juice during this time. It keeps them moist and boosts the hickory flavor!
7. Check for Doneness:
Using a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature of the pork chops has reached 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re cooked perfectly and safe to eat!
8. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute for juicy chops.
9. Serve and Garnish:
If you like, garnish your pork chops with fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious and juicy hickory-flavored pork chops hot!
Enjoy your perfectly grilled, juicy hickory-flavored pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops; just be aware they may cook faster, so adjust your grilling time to avoid drying them out. Check for doneness at around 3-4 minutes on each side.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight is a great way to infuse even more flavor into the pork chops. Just make sure to keep them covered in the refrigerator while they marinate.
What Should I Serve with Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilled pork chops pair wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with a fruity salsa for a nice contrast!
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or on a skillet over low heat to keep them juicy.
