How to Grill Thin Pork Chops on a Gas Grill: A Step-by-Step Guide

Grilling thin pork chops on a gas grill is a quick and easy way to add delicious flavor. When done right thin pork chops come out juicy, tender and full of smoky barbecue goodness. This guide will walk you through how to select, prepare and grill thin pork chops on a gas grill for perfect results every time.

Things to Know

• Rub chops with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper This helps flavor penetrate and prevents sticking

• Grill chops for 4 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 145°F. Thin chops cook fast, so watch closely.

• Let chops rest 5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute for moist, tender meat.

Picking the Right Pork Chops

For grilling, look for:

• Boneless or bone-in chops about 1/2 inch thick. Thinner chops cook faster.

• Chops with some marbling or fat for flavor and moisture. Avoid extremely lean chops.

• Uniform thickness so chops cook evenly. Avoid chops with tapered thin ends.

• Fresh, pink chops that smell clean, not spoiled. Discard discolored gray chops.

Bone-in rib or loin chops work well. Choose boneless sirloin or shoulder chops for easy eating.

Prepping Pork Chops for the Grill

Get chops grill-ready with these steps:

• Pat chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Wet chops will steam instead of browning.

• Coat both sides with olive oil. This adds flavor and prevents sticking.

• Generously season chops with salt, pepper and other spices or herbs if desired.

• Allow seasoned chops to sit 10-20 minutes before grilling. This lets flavor penetrate.

• Clean and oil grill grates right before grilling. This prevents food from sticking.

Grilling Thin Pork Chops

Follow these tips for perfect grilled pork chops:

• Preheat gas grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F. Thin chops need high heat to brown quickly.

• Place chops directly over heat. Don’t overcrowd grill or chops will steam instead of browning.

• Grill approximately 4 minutes per side. This sear time browns exterior while keeping interior juicy.

• Flip only once during grilling. Moving chops too much will cause them to dry out.

• Test for doneness with a meat thermometer. Pork is safe at 145°F and juicy at 160°F.

• Remove chops from grill when they are 5°F shy of final cooked temperature. Carryover cooking will finish them.

• Let chops rest 5 minutes off heat before serving. Juices will reabsorb for moist, tender meat.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled thin pork chops pair nicely with:

• Seasonal sliced fruits like peaches, pineapple, or mango. The sweetness balances the savory pork.

• Tangy slaws or spinach salads. The bright flavors complement the grilled smokiness.

• Grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, peppers, or onions. Their charred flavor matches the chops.

• Savory sauces like chimichurri, mole, or romesco. The richness works well with lean grilled pork.

• Hearty side dishes like beans, rice, or roasted potatoes. These provide comfort with the spicy chops.

With the right preparation, thin pork chops can become melt-in-your-mouth tender and full of flavor off the grill. Master this easy technique and enjoy backyard barbecue bliss all summer long. What are your favorite go-to seasonings and sides for grilled pork chops?