We prefer rib chops over center-cut chops when cooking outdoors because their greater fat content helps keep them moist, and we always prefer bone-in chops for their juiciness. Dry rubs are another great way to season pork chops. Select chops of close to an inch in thickness — nothing flimsy — then grill them over steady medium heat.
How To Dry Rub and Grill Pork Chops
Spice-Rubbed Grilled Pork Chops 🔗
Dry rubs are also a terrific way to season pork chops. Select chops of close to an inch in thickness — nothing flimsy — then grill them over steady medium heat. We opt for rib chops over the center-cut variety when cooking outdoors because their greater fat content helps keep them moist, and we always prefer bone-in chops for their juiciness. You might add a barbecue sauce on the side with these, but we relish their crispy surface unvarnished.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons sweet paprika, preferably Spanish
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt, either kosher or sea salt
- 3/4 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 3/4 teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne
- Six to eight 10- to 11-ounce bone-in pork rib chops, 3/4 to 1 inch thick
- Vegetable oil spray
Instruction:
- At least 1 and up to 8 hours before you plan to grill the pork chops, prepare the dry rub, combining the ingredients in a small bowl. Coat the chops with the spice mixture, place them in a large plastic bag, seal, and refrigerate.
- Fire up the grill, bringing the heat to medium (4 to 5 seconds with the hand test).
- Remove the chops from the refrigerator and let them sit covered at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
- Spray the chops with oil and transfer them to the grill. Grill for 18 to 20 minutes total. Turn onto each side twice, rotating the chops a half turn each time to get criss-cross grill marks. The chops are done when just a hint of pink remains at the center. Serve hot.
FAQ
How do you keep pork chops moist on the grill?
Pork chops are a lean, flavorless cut of meat on their own, so seasoning them with salt before cooking is crucial to bringing out their natural flavors. Season liberally, and keep in mind that even a brief brine—just 30 minutes—will enhance the flavor and texture of the meat.
How long should pork chops be grilled?
Cooking pork chops over direct medium-high heat will prevent them from drying out on the grill while also ensuring that they sear on the outside and remain juicy on the inside.
What seasonings are good on pork chops?
Thick pork chops usually require about 20 minutes to grill to perfection – 8 minutes for searing over direct heat, plus 12 minutes for finishing over indirect heat. Thin pork chops typically take 8 minutes to cook (4 minutes of searing on each side).