Juicy BBQ Pork Chops

Name: Barbecued Pork Chops
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 bone-in pork chops; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 2 cloves of minced garlic; 2 tablespoons of brown sugar; 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon of honey; 1 teaspoon of paprika; 1 teaspoon of onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon of cumin; 1/4 cup of ketchup; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Master the art of making succulent Barbecue Pork Chops with our easy-to-follow recipe. Perfectly seasoned, these chops are a hit whether grilled or baked!

American Cuisine

February 16, 2024

Difficulty Medium

Servings 4 people

Preparation 15 mins

Cooking 20 mins

Total 35 mins

Recipe Contents

Ingredients Directions Nutrition Equipments Tips

Ingredients

1 tablespoon of olive oil
2 cloves of minced garlic
2 tablespoons of brown sugar
2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon of honey
1 teaspoon of paprika
1 teaspoon of onion powder
1/2 teaspoon of cumin
1/4 cup of ketchup
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
4 bone-in pork chops
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Directions

Marinate The Pork Chops

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, and ground cumin to create your marinade.
Rub the marinade evenly over both sides of each pork chop. Cover and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Make The Barbecue Sauce

In a saucepan, mix together apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and honey (or maple syrup). Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired for heat.
Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Grilling the Pork Chops

Preheat the grill to medium-high. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Place the marinated pork chops on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 °F (63 °C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness without overcooking.
In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the pork chops generously with your barbecue sauce, flipping to glaze both sides.

Baking the Pork Chops (Alternative Method)

Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Arrange the marinated pork chops on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the pork chops from the oven, brush generously with the barbecue sauce, and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 °F (63 °C).

Rest and Serve

After cooking, transfer the pork chops to a plate and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve the pork chops hot, garnished with extra barbecue sauce on the side and your choice of sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, or grilled vegetables.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 Barbecued Pork Chops

Serves 4

Amount Per Serving

Calories320

% Daily Value*

Protein 35 g70%

Total Fat 16 g20.5%

Sodium 350 mg15.2%

*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Tips

Opt for bone-in pork chops for the best flavor and juiciness. Bone-in chops tend to be more forgiving during cooking and less likely to dry out.
For deeper flavor, let the seasoned pork chops marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight before cooking.
The safest way to check if pork chops are done is by using a meat thermometer. Pork is safe to eat at an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which will give you a slightly pink center that's juicy and flavorful.
Allow the pork chops to rest after cooking. This is crucial for retaining their juices. Cover them loosely with foil and let them sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
Feel free to customize the barbecue sauce to your taste. Adding ingredients like chipotle peppers, apple juice, or even a splash of bourbon can create new flavor profiles.
For those grilling, achieve professional-looking grill marks by placing your pork chops on the grill at a 45-degree angle and not moving them until it's time to turn.
Complement your barbecue pork chops with sides that can absorb the delicious sauce, such as mashed potatoes, cornbread, or a pasta salad.

Rate This Recipe

There's nothing quite like the smoky, savory aroma of barbecue pork chops sizzling away, promising a meal that's both hearty and flavorful. Whether you're firing up the grill or preheating the oven, this recipe will guide you to juicy perfection every time. Ideal for any occasion, from a laid-back weekend BBQ to a special family dinner, these pork chops are about to become your go-to favorite.

Equipment for this recipe

Measuring Cup

Mixing Bowls

Cutting Board

Cast Iron Grill Pan

Chef Knife

Origins Of Barbecue Pork Chops

Barbecue pork chops are a beloved classic in American cuisine, a dish that perfectly marries the smoky flavors of barbecue with the tender, succulent nature of pork chops. This dish's roots can be traced back to the South, where barbecue has long been a fundamental part of culinary tradition. The method of slowly cooking meats over low heat with a rich, flavorful sauce became a signature cooking style, celebrated at family gatherings, community events, and outdoor festivities across the country. The adaptation of barbecue techniques to quicker-cooking dishes like pork chops allowed the savory barbecue flavors to be enjoyed in a fraction of the time, making it a popular choice for home cooks.

Baked barbecue pork chops offer a convenient, fuss-free method of bringing the barbecue experience indoors, perfect for times when outdoor grilling isn't an option. This method allows the pork chops to slowly bake in their own juices, tenderizing the meat while infusing it with the barbecue sauce's sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. The oven's steady heat ensures that each chop is cooked evenly, resulting in a dish that's both delicious and satisfying. Baked barbecue pork chops have become a weeknight favorite, offering the comfort and taste of traditional barbecue with the ease of indoor preparation.

The versatility of barbecue pork chops, whether grilled or baked, lies in their ability to take on a variety of flavors based on the barbecue sauce used. From classic, molasses-based sauces to innovative creations featuring fruits, spices, and even coffee, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability has led to barbecue pork chops becoming a staple on dinner tables across the country. It's a dish that not only highlights the rich, diverse heritage of American barbecue but also allows for personalization, making each recipe unique to the cook who prepares it. Whether served at a summer barbecue or as a comforting winter meal, barbecue pork chops continue to be a cherished dish enjoyed by many.

What To Serve with Barbecue Pork Chops?

Barbecue pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments that complement their savory, smoky flavor.

Here are our delicious recipes that you can serve with Barbecue Pork Chops:

Baked Beans: Serve up a hearty helping of baked beans seasoned with molasses, brown sugar, and bacon. The sweetness of the beans complements the smoky flavor of the pork chops.
Cornbread: Bake a batch of golden cornbread to serve alongside the pork chops. The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread is a delightful addition to any barbecue meal.
Macaroni and Cheese: Indulge in creamy macaroni and cheese as a decadent side dish. The cheesy goodness pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of barbecue pork chops.
Grilled Pineapple: Grilled pineapple slices brushed with a honey glaze make a deliciously sweet and tangy side dish that complements the smoky flavor of the pork chops.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic are a comforting and satisfying side dish that pairs well with barbecue pork chops.

Dine & Wine

Pairing wine with barbecue pork chops offers an exciting opportunity to complement the rich flavors of the barbecue with the right wine's nuanced notes. The ideal wine can enhance the smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors of the dish, creating a harmonious dining experience. Here are a few recommendations:

For Grilled Barbecue Pork Chops:

Zinfandel: This full-bodied red wine is a classic pairing for barbecue dishes, thanks to its bold fruit flavors and hints of spice. Zinfandel can stand up to the strong flavors of the barbecue sauce, complementing the smokiness and sweetness perfectly.

Shiraz/Syrah: With its dark fruit flavors and peppery notes, Shiraz pairs well with the savory aspects of grilled pork chops. Its robust profile can match the intensity of the barbecue sauce, making it a satisfying choice.

For Baked Barbecue Pork Chops:

Malbec: Offering a slightly smoother experience, Malbec has rich plum and blackberry notes that work well with the caramelized edges of baked barbecue pork chops. Its subtle smoky undertone can also enhance the barbecue sauce's depth.

Grenache: For a lighter red option, Grenache offers berry flavors and a hint of spice that won't overwhelm the dish. Its gentle tannins make it a versatile partner for the sweet and tangy nuances of the sauce.

If You Prefer White Wine:

Riesling: A dry or off-dry Riesling can be a delightful contrast to the richness of barbecue pork chops. Its crisp acidity and fruity notes can cut through the fat, refreshing the palate between bites.

Chardonnay: Opt for a lightly oaked Chardonnay with a balance of richness and acidity. The buttery notes of the wine can complement the barbecue sauce's sweetness, while its citrusy acidity keeps the pairing fresh.

When selecting a wine to serve with barbecue pork chops, consider the sauce's predominant flavors and the cooking method. A wine that balances the meal's richness and complements its specific flavors will elevate the dining experience, making each bite and sip a delight.

Recipe byPetite Gourmets