These hickory pork chops are juicy and full of smoky flavor, grilled to perfection. They’ll bring a mouthwatering aroma to your backyard BBQ!
I love serving these with a side of grilled veggies or a fresh salad. They always get compliments, and honestly, who can resist that smoky goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bone-in Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in chops for extra flavor and juiciness. If you prefer boneless, use those too! Just reduce the grilling time slightly for the best results.
Olive Oil: This adds richness. You can swap it for canola, avocado, or vegetable oil if you need a different option or if you’re running low on olive oil!
Hickory Smoked Barbecue Sauce: To get that smoky flavor, I love hickory sauce. If you can’t find it, go for regular barbecue sauce or even apple wood smoked for a different yet tasty twist!
Smoked Paprika: This spice enhances the smoky flavor. If you’re fresh out, regular paprika works too, though it won’t give the same smoky taste. If you have cayenne on hand, just a pinch can also add some heat!
How Do You Achieve Perfect Grilled Pork Chops?
The secret to juicy pork chops is all in the marinade and grilling technique. Start by combining your marinade ingredients well, which tenderizes the meat and adds flavor. Here are some key tips:
- Make sure to marinate for at least one hour for flavor infusion, but longer is even better—up to 4 hours works wonders!
- Preheat your grill properly to help get those nice grill marks. A hot grill sears the meat quickly, locking in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your pork reaches the safe temperature of 145°F (63°C). This avoids overcooking and keeps your chops tender.
- Let them rest after grilling—this is crucial. It allows juices to settle back into the meat for that perfect bite.
With these steps and tips, your hickory pork chops will be a hit every time!
Succulent Grilled Hickory Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons hickory smoked barbecue sauce or hickory liquid smoke
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and at least 1 hour for marinating, but 3-4 hours is best. You’ll spend about 10-12 minutes grilling. So, set aside some time—about 1 hour and 20 minutes in total to 4 hours, depending on how long you can let the chops sit in that tasty marinade!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, hickory barbecue sauce or a few drops of liquid smoke, minced garlic, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix everything together until you have a nice marinade that will infuse flavor into the pork chops.
2. Prepare the Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels to help the marinade stick better. Then, place them in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. This way, they can soak up all the deliciousness!
3. Marinate:
Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated on all sides. Cover the dish or seal the bag, and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, let it sit for 3-4 hours for richer flavor.
4. Get the Grill Ready:
When it’s time to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help create those beautiful grill marks and seal in the juices.
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place them directly on the hot grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning once. Keep an eye on them until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making them super juicy when you slice in. If you want, garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for a pop of color and added flavor!
Enjoy your smoky, tender, and juicy hickory grilled pork chops! They’re perfect for any BBQ gathering or a cozy dinner at home!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts or thighs for the pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken generally cooks faster. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use any neutral oil like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil. Each will maintain the flavor without affecting the marinade too much!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, try warming them gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to prevent drying them out.
Can I Grill These Chops Indoors?
Yes! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop. Make sure to preheat it well before adding the chops to achieve that nice sear. Just keep an eye on them, as indoor cooking can smoke more readily!