Grillin’ Chops

Lesson

Grillin’ pork can be tricky, because the cuts can be so lean. Lucky for you, we’ve got a great way to grill chops: searing them to perfection. But before you start grillin’, make sure you have a clean and well-oiled grill grate.

Preparing chops for grillin’

We recommend choosing chops that are at least one-inch thick, and brining or marinating them before grillin’. The reason? Brining or marinating chops helps to avoid toughness or dryness. The one exception to this rule is heritage pork, which is bred to have more fat, and tends to be tender and juicy on its own. You can also brine and grill hams, pork tenderloins and loins, and roasts, if you prefer those. Here, we’ll talk specifically about grillin’ chops.

Basting chops while you’re cooking

To add even more flavor, baste the chops while you’re grillin’. Basting not only adds flavor, but the acid in the spray helps tenderize, the sugar caramelizes and adds a rich color, and the liquid keeps the meat juicy.

Creating a baste is simple. If you marinated the meat, boil the left over marinade for 10 minutes to eliminate bacteria, then pour it in a spray bottle. If you’re starting from scratch, here’s a simple recipe that works well. Mix 1 cup apple juice, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons maple syrup or molasses, and a pinch of salt. Pour the mixture in a spray bottle and keep it handy.

Searing chops

To sear the chops, place them on the hottest side of the grill (also known as direct heat), and cook for about 2 minutes per side. Spray each side of the meat with your baste. Cook until all sides are nicely browned. Next, move them to the unheated (indirect) side of the grill for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, turning once.

Time guidelines for grillin’:

1-inch thick pork chops 6 to 7 minutes per side
Ham steak, precooked 2 to 4 minutes per side
Whole ham with bone 1-3/4 to 2-3/4 hours
Ribs 45 to 90 minutes (over indirect heat)
Roast 50 to 120 minutes (over indirect heat)

An even better way to know when your chops are done—take their temperature. For temperature guidelines, see our Safe Cooking Temperatures for Chops lesson.

Got your mind set on making your own? Check out our chops recipes!