Name: Grilled MEAT Chops
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 meat chops (pork, beef, or lamb); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Optional: fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme)

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Grilled Pork Chops are a savoury, satisfying entrée known for their rich flavour, tender texture, and beautiful char marks. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, these chops cook quickly and pair well with a wide variety of side dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers juicy, flavourful pork chops with minimal effort. The simple seasoning brings out the natural richness of the meat, while grilling creates a smoky, caramelised crust. The method is straightforward, requires only a few ingredients, and produces restaurant-quality results at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

bone-in or boneless pork chops
olive oil
salt
black pepper
garlic powder
paprika
lemon halves, for grilling
optional herbs: parsley, thyme, basil

Directions

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Pat the pork chops dry and brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
Season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Place the chops on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
Grill the lemon halves cut-side down until lightly charred.
Remove the pork chops from the grill once they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Let the meat rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with herbs and a squeeze of grilled lemon juice.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2–4 people, depending on chop size.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 8–12 minutes
Resting time: 3–5 minutes
Total time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

Honey Garlic Pork Chops: Brush with a honey-garlic glaze during the last minute of grilling.
Spicy Pork Chops: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning.
Herb-Marinated Chops: Marinate the meat in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 1–2 hours.
Smoky BBQ Chops: Slather with barbecue sauce and grill over lower heat.
Asian-Inspired Chops: Use a marinade of soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and brown sugar.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.
Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it can dry out the meat.
Cooked pork chops may also be frozen for up to 2 months.

FAQs

How do I keep pork chops from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and remove them from heat once they reach 145°F (63°C).

Should I use bone-in or boneless chops?

Bone-in chops are typically juicier, but both work well.

Can I grill frozen pork chops?

They should be thawed first for even cooking.

How thick should the chops be?

Chops 1 inch thick are ideal for grilling.

Can I marinate the chops overnight?

Yes, but limit acidic marinades to 12 hours.

What if I do not have an outdoor grill?

Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet on the stovetop.

Why are my grill marks uneven?

Ensure the grill is preheated and avoid moving the chops too early.

Can I brine pork chops?

Yes, a simple salt-water brine adds moisture and tenderness.

Should I rest the meat after cooking?

Yes, resting keeps the juices from escaping when sliced.

Can I season the chops only with salt and pepper?

Absolutely; simple seasoning still produces excellent flavour.

Conclusion

Grilled Pork Chops are a reliable, flavourful entrée suitable for any occasion. With a simple seasoning blend and proper grilling technique, you can achieve juicy, perfectly cooked chops every time. Versatile, quick, and satisfying, this recipe is a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire.