Make the Perfect Grilled Pork Chops with Homemade Seasonings

Juicy, tender and full of flavor – that’s what pork chop perfection tastes like when you know how to pick the ideal homemade seasoning blend. While there are plenty of store-bought options, creating your own spice mix allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Whether you prefer savory, spicy or sweet, there are lots of tasty seasoning options that can take your grilled pork chops up a notch.

Complementing the mild, slightly sweet taste of pork with spices and herbs enhances the meat’s natural flavors Using the right ratio of spices is key to creating a balanced, nuanced blend that brings out the best in grilled pork. Read on to discover some sensational seasoning recipes you can whip up at home to make unforgettable grilled pork chops

Classic Grilled Pork Chop Spice Blends

These homemade mixes are ideal for infusing pork chops with traditional flavors

Basic Pork Chop Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried thyme

Smoked Paprika Pork Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Herbed Pork Chop Rub

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Spicy and Savory Pork Seasonings

Amp up the heat and flavor dimensions with these zesty seasoning blends

Chili Lime Pork Rub

• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Jerk Pork Chop Seasoning

• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1⁄2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Bold BBQ Dry Rub

• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard

Sweet and Savory Pork Chop Blends

Bring out the natural sweetness of the pork with these seasoned salts:

Brown Sugar and Spice Rub

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dry mustard

Maple Sugar Pork Chop Rub

• 2 tablespoons maple sugar
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon chipotle powder

Orange Ginger Glaze

• Zest and juice of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Tips for Using Homemade Pork Chop Seasonings

• Store rubs in sealed jars up to 3 months. Keep away from moisture and light.

• Coat chops just before grilling so spices don’t draw out moisture.

• Apply rub generously on all sides by sprinkling from above.

• Allow the seasoning to adhere to meat during initial indirect grilling.

• Flip and move chops over direct heat at end to caramelize spices.

• Avoid charring rubs with sugar. Watch heat level and flip as needed.

• Brush on glazes only during last few minutes to prevent burning.

How to Grill Perfectly Seasoned Pork Chops

1. Trim – Remove excess fat and silverskin from chops for better browning.

2. Season – Coat chops all over with dry rub, pressing gently to adhere.

3. Preheat Grill – Get gas or charcoal grill hot, then reduce to medium heat.

4. Cook Indirect – Place chops over indirect heat, cover and cook 10-12 minutes per side.

5. Sear – Move to direct heat and sear 1 minute per side to caramelize seasoning.

6. Check Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temperature reaches 145°F.

7. Rest – Let chops rest 5 minutes before serving for juicy, tender meat.

8. Add On Glaze – During last few minutes of searing, brush with glaze to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Pork Chop Seasoning

What is the best wood for grilling pork chops?

Fruitwoods like apple, cherry and pecan give a slightly sweet flavor that complements pork well. Hickory and mesquite also pair nicely.

Should you brine pork chops before grilling?

Brining helps keeps chops juicy but isn’t required with a nice thick cut. If chops are thin or prone to drying out, a quick 30 minute salty water bath can help.

What if my pork chops are burning on the grill?

Burning is often due to too high and direct heat. Be sure to sear seasoned chops over indirect heat first. Then watch closely when searing over direct heat and lower temperature or move chops if burning occurs.

How do you keep grilled pork chops from drying out?

Use thick, boneless chops at least 1 inch thick. Grill over indirect heat, then sear quickly at the end over direct heat. Do not overcook, and allow chops to rest before slicing to retain juices.

What is the minimum thickness for grilling pork chops?

Ideally pork chops for grilling should be a minimum of 1 inch thick. Thinner chops under 3⁄4 inch can dry out quickly on the grill. For best results, look for chops cut from the loin at least 1 inch thick.

The Best Pork Chop is in Your Seasoned Hands

While pork chops have a great flavor all on their own, adding seasoning takes them to new heights. Homemade spice rubs and herb blends infuse the meat with layers of taste. Follow these recipes and grilling tips for tender, juicy chops coated in an incredible crust of caramelized seasoning. Experiment with different spice mixes to discover your perfect blend. Let your seasoned pork chops speak for themselves at your next cookout or dinner.