How Long to Grill 1-Inch Thick Pork Chops for Juicy, Flavorful Results

Grilling pork chops is a quick and easy way to add delicious flavor. When cooked properly grilled pork chops come out juicy tender and packed with smoky flavor. However, it can be tricky to get the timing right, especially when cooking thicker pork chops. Undercook them and you risk foodborne illness. Overcook them and you’re left with dry, tough meat. So how long should you grill 1-inch thick pork chops for the best results? Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Factors That Affect Cooking Time

Several factors impact how long it takes to grill 1-inch pork chops to perfection

• Thickness – Thinner chops cook faster than thicker chops A 1-inch chop is considered thick and will take longer than thinner chops

• Bone-in or boneless – Bone-in chops take longer since the bone partially shields the meat. Plan for 5-7 extra minutes for bone-in.

• Temperature – Colder meat takes longer to cook. Let chops sit out for 30 minutes before grilling.

• Doneness – The less cooked you want the pork, the less time it needs on the grill.

• Grill temperature – Cooking over high heat reduces grilling time. Medium-high heat of 400-450°F is ideal.

• Marinades – Acidic marinades like lemon juice can shorten cooking time slightly.

Grilling Guidelines

Here are general guidelines for grilling 1-inch pork chops to perfection:

• 6-8 minutes per side – This yields a safe internal temp and moist, juicy meat.

• 10-12 minutes per side for bone-in – The bone will require more time to heat through.

• 145°F for medium-rare – Use a meat thermometer for an accurate doneness reading.

• 160°F for medium – If you prefer your pork more well-done, aim for this internal temp.

• 400-450°F grill temperature – This sears the outside and cooks the inside properly.

• Let rest 5 minutes – Allowing chops to rest locks in juices so meat stays tender.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps for grilling 1-inch pork chops perfectly every time:

1. Trim excess fat – This minimizes flare ups. Leave a thin layer for moisture.

2. Season generously – Use a dry rub or marinade. Seasonings add flavor.

3. Bring to room temp – Let chops sit out for 30 minutes before grilling.

4. Preheat grill to 400-450°F – This ensures the pork sears and cooks evenly.

5. Grill 6-8 minutes per side – Time according to thickness. Bone-in chops take longer.

6. Check temperature – Insert a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.

7. Remove from grill at 145°F – This yields a safe, juicy medium-rare pork chop.

8. Let rest 5 minutes – Allowing chops to rest keeps them moist and tender when cut.

9. Serve and enjoy! – Dig into your juicy, flavor-packed grilled pork chops.

Grilling Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to go wrong when grilling pork chops. Here are some common mistakes and how to prevent them:

• Undercooking – Always use a meat thermometer to confirm safe temperature.

• Overcooking – Carefully monitor thickness and time to prevent drying out.

• Uneven cooking – Flip frequently and move chops around the grill.

• Flare ups – Trim excess fat and avoid sugary marinades to minimize.

• Poor sear – Ensure grill is hot before adding chops. Don’t move them too much.

• Chops sticking – Oil grill grates right before adding chops. Wait until release naturally to flip.

Choosing the Right Pork Chops

Not all pork chops are equal. Here’s how to select chops that will cook up juicy and tender:

• Bone-in for flavor – The bone adds moisture during cooking.

• Thicker chops – At least 1-inch thick for juicy grilled chops.

• Center cut – Taken from the loin, center cuts are most tender.

• Some marbling – Look for some thin fat streaks to enhance flavor.

• Fresh, firm meat – Avoid chops with yellowing or soft spots.

• Even thickness – Uniform thickness ensures even cooking.

Marinades Add Flavor

Marinating is optional but recommended for added flavor. Try these easy marinades:

• Brown sugar + soy sauce + garlic – A sweet and salty Asian-inspired marinade.

• Olive oil + lemon juice + rosemary – Bright citrus flavors.

• Beer + mustard + onion – Bold and tangy barbecue marinade.

• Balsamic vinegar + Italian herbs – Classic Italian flavors.

• Honey + chili powder + cumin – Spicy and mildly sweet.

Master the Perfectly Grilled Chop

Grilling pork chops seems simple but there are some nuances. Follow these expert tips:

• Grill leaner chops over direct heat. Fattier chops do better over indirect heat.

• Resist the urge to flip chops too often. Just flip once halfway through cooking.

• Brush chops with oil or melted butter before grilling for great color and flavor.

• Add wood chips to infuse chops with extra smoky flavor. Soak chips first.

• Use tongs instead of a fork for turning. A fork pierces the meat, losing juices.

• If flare ups occur, move chops temporarily to a cooler part of the grill.

• Let chops rest on a wood cutting board instead of metal which can conduct heat.

Grilled Pork Chop Recipe Inspiration

The grilled pork possibilities are endless. Try these creative recipes:

• Jerk Pork Chops – Caribbean jerk seasoning adds spice and flavor.

• Hoisin Glazed Pork Chops – Sweet and sticky with an Asian twist.

• Pork Chops with Peach Salsa – Grilled peaches make a fresh topping.

• Mediterranean Pork Chops – Marinated in a Greek-inspired yogurt sauce.

• Cuban Mojo Pork Chops – Squeezed with lime and oregano.

• Balsamic and Fig Pork Chops – An elegant yet easy grilled entrée.

Perfectly Grilled Pork in 3…2…1

Armed with this guide, you can master grilling juicy 1-inch pork chops in no time. Preheating your grill, monitoring temperature, allowing chops to rest, and avoiding common mistakes are all keys to success. In just 6-8 minutes per side, you’ll be biting into tender, smoky chops with gorgeous grill marks. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your grilled pork chop grilling skills.