How Long Does It Take to Grill Thin Cut Pork Chops to Perfection?

Juicy, flavorful pork chops hot off the grill are a summertime staple. When it comes to grilling pork chops, going with thin cuts can make for a quick and easy dinner. But nailing the timing is crucial to prevent dried out or undercooked pork. So how long does it really take to grill thin cut pork chops to tender, juicy perfection?

In this article we’ll cover everything you need to know about grilling thin cut pork chops from ideal prep to cooking timelines. You’ll learn how to achieve the perfect balance of sear, seasoning, and succulent meat with every thin pork chop you grill.

Why Go Thin?

Pork chops cut 1⁄2 inch thick or less are considered thin or thin cut These thin chops have some major advantages over their thicker counterparts

• Quick cooking time – Thin pork chops cook faster, needing only about 4 minutes per side directly over the heat. This makes them ideal for weeknight grilling.

• Tender and flavorful – With less time on the grill, thin chops stay tender and juice-filled. Quick cooking also allows more seasoning to penetrate for maximum flavor.

• Easy to monitor – Their thin profile means you can easily keep an eye on them and test for doneness. No cutting into thick pork chops to check.

• More surface area = more caramelization – More of the chop’s surface will hit the grill grates, leading to excellent sear marks and caramelized bits that enhance flavor.

For fast and flavorful grilled pork perfect for dishes from fajitas to kabobs, thin cut chops can’t be beat.

Grilling Time for Thin Pork Chops

The exact grilling time for thin pork chops depends on a few factors:

• Thickness – Truly thin chops around 1⁄4 inch thick will cook faster than 1⁄2 inch chops.

• Bone-in or boneless – Boneless chops will grill a little more quickly.

• Temperature – Hotter heat shorts cooking time but increases risk of charring.

• Marinade – Acidic marinades like wine or citrus slightly lengthen cooking time.

Keeping those variables in mind, here are general guidelines for grilling times based on typical thin pork chop thickness:

• 1⁄4 inch thick – 4 to 5 minutes per side
• 1⁄2 inch thick – 6 to 8 minutes per side

For comparison, a thick boneless pork chop over 1 inch thick would need 12-14 minutes per side to reach doneness.

No matter the thickness, always rely on an instant read thermometer to confirm the chops have reached 145°F internally and are cooked through but still juicy.

Step-by-Step Grilling Method

Follow these simple steps for perfect thin pork chops every time:

1.Trim and Prepare the Chops

• For bone-in chops, trim off any excess fat or sinew.

• Pound chops gently with a meat mallet to tenderize.

• Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

2. Season Generously

• Coat both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, etc.

• Let rest 10-15 minutes post-seasoning so flavors absorb.

3. Preheat Grill Hot

• Heat gas or charcoal grill to medium-high, around 400°F.

• Clean grates and coat with oil to prevent sticking.

4. Sear Chops Over Direct Heat

• Place chops directly over heat source.

• Sear for 4-5 minutes untouched to develop grill marks.

• Flip and sear second side for 4-5 minutes more.

5. Check Temperature

• Test center of thickest chop with instant read thermometer.

• Remove from grill at 145°F for perfectly cooked pork.

6. Rest and Serve

• Let chops rest 5 minutes so juices redistribute.

• Slice or chop if desired, and serve.

Getting excellent sear marks without over or undercooking is easy with this simple grilling method.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Thin Chops

Beyond nailing the timing, these expert tips will help you achieve grilling greatness with thin pork chops every time:

• Let chops reach room temp before grilling for more even cooking. Take them out of the fridge 30 minutes early.

• Mix up your marinades – citrus, soy sauce, vinegar, wine, herbs, and spice rubs all work great.

• Pay attention to grill marks – rotate chops 45° halfway through searing to get crosshatched marks.

• Avoid constant flipping – only flip once during cooking for optimal browning.

• Use a 2-zone fire to sear then finish cooking indirectly if chops are thicker than 1⁄2 inch.

• Double check doneness with an instant read thermometer in thickest part.

• Rest before slicing so juices have a chance to reabsorb for a juicy bite.

Match Made in Heaven – Chops and Sauces

A succulent grilled pork chop fresh off the barbecue begs to be paired with a flavor-packed sauce. Here are some all-star sauce options:

• Tangy barbecue sauce – Classic and delicious. Opt for homemade or gourmet for next level.

• Sweet and spicy Asian glazes – Think hoisin, chili garlic, or teriyaki.

• Herb-infused chimichurri – Fresh and zesty! Especially great with grilled veggies too.

• Cool and creamy slaws – Crunchy, vinegary slaw balances the richness.

• Briny olive relishes – Olives, capers, herbs for Mediterranean flair.

• Fruity salsas – Pineapple, mango, or peach pairs perfectly with pork.

With the ideal grilling times and tips above, you can master cooking thin cut pork chops on the barbecue. Enjoy your new grill skills all summer long!