Barbecue pork chops are a fantastic way to enjoy a juicy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion — from weeknight dinners to weekend cookouts. If you’ve ever wondered how to make barbecue pork chops that are tender, smoky, and packed with flavor, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through easy methods and tips to make mouthwatering barbecue pork chops, whether you prefer grilling, baking, or cooking on the stovetop.
Choosing the Right Pork Chops
Start with good-quality pork chops. Bone-in or boneless chops work well, but thick-cut chops (about 1 inch or more) tend to stay juicier during cooking. Boneless chops are easier to handle and cook faster, while bone-in chops offer extra flavor and moisture.
Preparing Your Barbecue Sauce and Seasoning
A great barbecue pork chop starts with a flavorful BBQ sauce and a tasty spice rub. You can use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make a simple homemade version with ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, mustard, and spices such as garlic powder and paprika.
For the spice rub, combine brown sugar with chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a smoky, slightly spicy kick. This rub complements the BBQ sauce perfectly and creates a delicious crust on the pork chops.
How to Make Barbecue Pork Chops
Method 1: Oven-Baked Barbecue Pork Chops
Baking pork chops in the oven is a foolproof way to get tender, juicy meat without the risk of drying them out.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Brush each pork chop with a tablespoon of BBQ sauce.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chops.
- Place the pork chops on the baking sheet and bake for about 8-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Let the chops rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Method 2: Grilled Barbecue Pork Chops
Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor and a slightly charred exterior that’s hard to beat.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
- Season the pork chops generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the chops on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side.
- Flip the chops and brush BBQ sauce all over the tops and sides.
- Continue grilling for another 5-7 minutes, then flip and baste again with BBQ sauce.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F and there’s no pink in the center.
- Rest the chops for at least 5 minutes before serving with extra BBQ sauce.
Method 3: Stovetop Barbecue Pork Chops
If you don’t have access to a grill or want a quick option, cooking pork chops in a cast iron skillet on the stovetop works beautifully.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil.
- Season pork chops with salt and pepper and place them in the hot skillet.
- Cook for 7-8 minutes on one side.
- Flip the chops and pour BBQ sauce on top.
- Cook for another 7-8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Serve with additional BBQ sauce if desired.
Tips for Juicy Barbecue Pork Chops
– Use a meat thermometer: Pork chops are perfectly cooked at 145°F. Overcooking leads to dryness.
– Let them rest: Resting the meat for 5-10 minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute.
– Marinate if you have time: Marinating pork chops in BBQ sauce or a mixture of tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices for a few hours enhances flavor and tenderness.
– Don’t skip the spice rub: It adds depth and a smoky-sweet crust that pairs beautifully with BBQ sauce.
– Avoid high heat for too long: Whether grilling or pan-searing, moderate heat prevents burning and drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Barbecue pork chops go well with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, pair with mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables.
Barbecue pork chops are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you bake, grill, or pan-sear them, the key is a good balance of seasoning, BBQ sauce, and proper cooking temperature to keep them juicy and flavorful. Enjoy your next meal with these delicious barbecue pork chops!