Why Are My Pork Chops Dry
The answer is quite simple: you overcooked them. We are so afraid of food poisoning that we cook the crap out of our proteins, resulting in dry, tough meats. Even though pork is a white meat, it should still have a hint of pink on the inside when it is finished. Grill them until they are 145 150 degrees and then let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. You will fall in love with pork chops all over again! Also, be sure that you dont cut into your chops too soon. They need time to rest after they are done: at least 5 minutes.
How To Grill Thick
Has this summer been as grill-heavy for you as it has been for us? I personally have taken every chance I could to cook on the delicious grill rather than heating my kitchen to unlivable temperatures. But in all of the hubbub surrounding National Grilling Month, surely you have not forgotten the humble pork chop, have you?
I say humble, but there is nothing small or meek about big, juicy pork chops. Pork chops take well to all kinds of seasonings and flavor combinations and are far cheaper than even cheaper steak cuts. To demonstrate their versatility, today were going to discuss how to cook massively-thick double-cut pork chops on the grill.
Contents:
Pork Chop Grill Time Chart:
The total cooking time for your pork chops will depend on the size and thickness of your meat, as well as the temperature of your grill and whether you’re using bone-in or boneless chops. Here’s a handy chart that provides a closer approximation for your reference:
Again, the best way to know when your meat is done is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Pork chops should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.
You May Like: Char Griller Akorn Temperature Control
Easy Grilled Pork Chops
- 2 center-cut boneless pork chops, 1/2 to 3/4? thick
- 2 tsps extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp coarse sea salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Total time: Author: Jason
Directions:
1. Brush the pork chops with EVOO on both sides. Season the pork all over with salt and pepper. Set the chops aside while you preheat the grill. Additional seasonings of your choice can be added at this point.
2. Preheat your George Foreman Grill for at least 5 minutes on high. Grill the pork chops with the top closed for 4 minutes. Check the temperature with a meat thermometer inserted into the center. You are looking for a minimum internal temperature of 145°F for medium and up to 160°F for well done. Continue to grill if necessary.
3. Remove the chops to a cutting board or plate and rest it for 5 minutes. Serve with your favorite sides. Suggestions follow the recipes.
Preparation And Storage Tips:
- Prepare a batch of the seasoning blend in advance, so that the pork chops only require a few minutes of actual hands-on prep before they go on the grill.
- Store leftover grilled pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Wrapped tightly, the grilled pork chops will last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- How to reheat grilled pork chops: Place the pork chops in a dish and cover with foil. Warm in a 350 degree F oven for 10-15 minutes, or just until heated through. Be careful not to overcook them, or they will become tough and dry.
- You can grill pork chops from frozen, but you will need to increase the cooking time by about 50 percent. Again, use a meat thermometer to know when the pork is done.
Don’t Miss: How To Keep Mice Out Of Bbq Grill
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilling Pork Chops
How long do you cook pork chops on the grill?
This depends on the thickness, but a good rule of thumb for a 1 thick pork chop is to sear on high/direct heat for 1-2 minutes, move to medium/indirect heat and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side. The best way to ensure you have cooked your pork chops for the right amount of time is to use a meat thermometer. Insert into the thickest part of the meat and remove from grill after it reaches 145 degrees.
What temperature do you cook pork chops on the grill?
Pork does not like very high heat. That will cause it to cook too quickly and become tough. A medium-high temperature of 375-400 degrees is perfect for grilling pork chops.
Is it safe to eat pork chops if they are pink inside?
According to the USDA, pork cooked to 145 degrees is safe to eat. At this temperature, the meat may still look a little pink but is safe to eat.
Should I keep the lid on when grilling pork chops?
Yes, keeping the lid on gives you more consistent heat.
Can I use the same recipe for a baked pork chop or a pork tenderloin?
Yes! Our pork chop marinade can also be used for baked pork chops or a pork tenderloin. And if youre short on time or have surprise guests, just keep your favorite bbq sauce stocked in the pantry for barbeque pork chops!
How To Grill Pork Chops Without Drying Them Out
You dont need much to make juicy pork chops, just good quality chops, canola oil, and your pork chop seasoning of choice .
Sprinkle the pork chop seasoning on lightly oiled pork chops, making sure to coat both sides well. Allow the rub to rest into the chops as the grill pre-heats so the flavor seeps into the pork chops before searing on the grill and sealing in flavor.
Then, its just a matter of throwing the pork chops on the grill and letting them cook through. You want to turn the chops just once while theyre on the grill.
Don’t Miss: What Model Of Weber Grill Do I Have
Why Are Boneless Pork Chops Preferred To Grill
Boneless pork chops are everyones favorite cuts of flesh. As these are so incredibly flexible because they are cooked in several ways as well as very delicious and affordable at the same time.
In addition, when you are going to grill them on a George Foreman grill it is better to use boneless cuts as they may cook nicely and evenly. Pork chops with 3/ 4 to 1-inch thickness are best, they always come out tender, delicious, and juicy.
Easy Marinated Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients:
Prep time: 40 min Cook time: 5 min Serves: 2 people
Directions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together all of the marinade ingredients. Place the pork chops in a sealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the meat. Seal the bag and gently massage to coat the chops. You can allow the pork to sit out for at least 30 minutes. Or, you can make this in the morning and place the bag in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours.
2. Preheat your George Foreman Grill for at least 5 minutes on high. Coat both plates of the grill with vegetable oil. Grill the pork chops with the top closed for 4 minutes. Check the temperature with a meat thermometer inserted into the center. You are looking for a minimum internal temperature of 145°F for medium and up to 160°F for well done. Continue to grill if necessary.
3. Remove the pork to a cutting board or plate and rest it for 5 minutes. Serve with your favorite sides. Suggestions follow the recipes.
Recommended Reading: Grilling Pork Chops Temperature
Shrimp Grill Until Shrimp Turn Pink And Are Springy To The Touch
Cooking boneless pork chops on george foreman grill. Remove from grill when pork reaches and internal temp of 145 degrees. Allow the pork chops to rest for 5 minutes. Again just my own recipe no marination just slap ya’ mam.
Grill the pork chops with the top closed for 4 minutes. You are looking for a minimum internal temperature of 145°f for medium and up to 160°f for well done. While the grill is preheating, mix the rub ingredients together.
George foreman grill is best for cooking chicken and pork chops.cooking boneless pork. Remove pork chops and place on preheated grill. It also does not get as hot as an outdoor grill.
Remove seasoned pork chops from fridge and let rest on countertop for few minutes. Pork chops are a wonderful cut of meat to make. Place on grill, cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°f for medium or until cooked to desired doneness.
Check the temperature with a meat thermometer inserted into the center. Carefully remove upper grill plate and top each pork chop with crumbled feta. Approximate cooking times for boneless chicken breasts are 14 minutes, 12 minutes for burgers, 11 minutes for strip steak and 17 minutes for pork chops.
Cook on high broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until cheese is softened. They cook in just minutes and require very minimal preparation. Brush cooked marinade over pork chops.
Remove the chops to a cutting board or plate and rest it for 5 minutes.
Tasty, quick and easy Lamb chops on the Foreman
Brine Your Pork Chops For The Juiciest Results
One of the best things you can do to increase juiciness when cooking lean meats like pork chops is brining. Brining meats helps to break down the proteins in their muscle fibers, preventing them from squeezing and drying out during cooking. The salt in the brine dissolves some of the proteins, forming a gel capable of holding on to more water. With more water and the protein structure of the meat altered, the meat will be juicier and more tender.
Plus, you can help impart a little bit of flavor to the chops by brining them, so its a real win/win.
When making the brine, I find it expedient to make it using only half the water, then adding ice to cool it and bring it to a proper dilution. Just be sure to use your Thermapen to check the temp of the brine before adding the chops. Food safety practices say that meat can be in the range between 40°F and 70°F for four hours. Getting the brine on the cool side before you put it in the fridge will ensure that you arent hanging out in that zone for too long.
Note: After you brine your chops but before you cook them, dry them well with some paper towels. A wet surface will not brown, and youll pump too much heat into the meat as you try to cook off that water. Starting with meat that has been dried off will help you get better browning without overcooking.
Don’t Miss: How To Get Grease Off Cement
How To Make Pork Chops On A George Foreman Grill
For grilling the pork chops, it is recommended to use middle-cut boneless chops . The piece of flesh may be 1/ 2 to 3/ 4 inches thick to get the best possible results. It is also very important to preheat the grill up to maximum temperature as it scorches in the flavors.
Here is an easy and quick delightful pork chops recipe for you that you can make easily on your George Foreman Grill.
How Long It May Take You To Cook Pork Chops On A George Foreman Grill
The cooking time of pork chops may depend on their thickness. Here we will discuss the correct timing for grilling your pork chops to perfection.
For a boneless cut of 3/ 4 inches or 2 cm, it may take you about 8 to 12 minutes. While for a boneless cut of about 1 and a half inches or 4 cm, you have to cook for 12 to 20 minutes.
Now it comes to bone-in cuts, when you have a cut of 3/ 4 inches or 2 cm, you may have to cook it for 8 to 12 minutes. However, for 1 and a half inches or 4 cm bone-in cut, cook it for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Recommended Reading: What Is The Best Way To Clean Stainless Steel Grill Grates
How To Chill And What Temperature Is Required To Preheat The Grill
Some things that are important and you have to keep in mind while cooking the pork chops on a Foreman Grill. First, remove the marinated pork chops from the refrigerator. Let them sit for a few minutes to get them to normal temperature. You do not have any need to shock the meat by putting it from extreme cold temperature to the hot grill.
You may know that flesh always cooks better when it is closer to normal temperature. Moreover, you also have to make sure to preheat your Foreman Grill. Most grills may have a light indicator that indicates when the grill gets hot enough. Remember to never place the meat on a cold grill.
Cook’s Tips And Recipe Variations:
- This recipe works well with bone-in or boneless pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time according to the size and thickness of your meat . Pork chops should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees F. A juicy pork chop with some pink in the middlehas been given the official “okay” by the USDA.
- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. You can use a prepared all-purpose seasoning, barbecue seasoning, cumin, paprika, ground red pepper , any combination of your favorite herbs, or just keep it simple with salt and pepper.
- Health Benefits of Pork Chops: Grilling pork chops can be a healthy way to prepare this lean cut of meat. Pork chops have 24 grams of protein in a 3-ounce portion and offers a good source of zinc. A 6-ounce grilled pork chop seasoned with olive oil and all-purpose seasoning has about 250 calories, 13 grams of fat, zero carbohydrates, and 31 grams of protein. This is a Keto-friendly and low-carb option.
Recommended Reading: How Long Do You Grill Bone In Chicken Thighs
How To Know When Pork Is Cooked
The most important factor juicy pork is to not overcook. Grill pork according to the heat and times in this recipe for best results.
Here are a few ways to tell if pork is cooked:
- Internal temp: The easiest and most accurate way is to check with a quick-read digital meat thermometer. The internal temp should reach 145 degrees to be safe.
- Visual check: Cut into the center of the pork with a knife. It should be slightly pink for medium.
How Do You Make Pork Chops Tender
How to Make Tender Pork Chops Opt for Thick-Cut Bone-In Pork Chops. Thin-cut pork chops wont sear properly in the time it takes to cook them through. Skip the Brine, but Season Liberally. Let the Pork Chops Rest. Sear Pork Chops Over Medium-High Heat. Baste the Pork Chops. Let the Pork Chops Rest, Again. Serve.
Recommended Reading: Traeger Grill Electric
How To Tell If Pork Chops Are Done
Investing in a digital instant-read meat thermometer is key to perfectly cooked, juicy grilled pork chops. Youll avoid the guesswork and know exactly when to take your pork chops off the grill before they get dry and overcooked. When you think your pork chops are almost done, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone, and the temperature should register within a few seconds. As soon as the temperature reads 145 degrees, take them off the grill.
If you dont have a meat thermometer yet, not to worry. There are other ways to gauge the readiness of your pork chops. The best way is to gently poke the meat with your finger or a fork to determine its firmness. If the meat is soft and spongy, it will still be raw in the middle. If the meat is firm and leathery, it is well done.
The perfect chop will be firm, but not hard. Once you remove the pork chops from the grill and they have rested for 5 minutes, you can cut into the thickest part of the meat and check the color. Perfectly done pork that has reached 145 degrees can still be a little pink, but any juices you see should be clear. If you think your meat is still undercooked, throw them back on the grill for 1-2 minutes and check again.
How Long Do You Cook Grilled Pork Chops
Pork chops that are 1 1/2 inch thick, grilled over high heat, will take approximately 15 minutes per side for a total of 30 minutes of grilling time. Reverse-seared pork chops, cooked over lower heat and then finished over a hot grill, will take closer to 1 hour.
Regardless of the cooking method, you want to cook until the pork chops reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, followed by a 3 minute rest this is considered medium, and is the recommended safe temperature for pork chops. Some cooks are comfortable cooking their pork chops to lower temperatures, like 135 degrees Fahrenheit, which can give you more tender meat.
You May Like: Grilling Chicken Breast On A Gas Grill
What Is The Best Wood For Smoking Pork Chops
Wood pellets are the best choice. They burn far hotter and way slower than standard wood chips, which gives master grillers a lot more control over the temperature of their pork chops. Hardwood pellets also provide you with more smoke consistency without the build-up and they come in a wide range of blends that are ideal for pork chops.
The blend you go for really depends on what youre looking for in a grilled pork chop. Traeger maple wood pellets are amazing at bringing out the natural flavor in your pork while adding a mild, seasonal sweetness. Apple pellets are always a dependable choice if youre on the hunt for that light, slightly fruity flavor a lot of your guests naturally associate with grilled pork chops.
If you want to play around a bit, our all-natural pecan hardwood pellets give pork chops a trace of nuttiness, while our signature blend of hickory, maple, and cherry hardwood adds a full-bodied kick of flavor.
