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Savory Bourbon Brown Sugar Grilled Pork Chops Recipe Perfectly Glazed

bourbon brown sugar grilled pork chops - featured image

A quick and easy grilled pork chop recipe featuring a perfectly balanced bourbon and brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully for a tender, juicy, and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
  • 1/3 cup bourbon (80 ml)
  • 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar (50 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (30 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (15 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Salt to taste (kosher salt recommended)
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade (10 minutes): In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, bourbon, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, and black pepper until the brown sugar begins to dissolve.
  2. Marinate the Pork Chops (at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours): Place pork chops in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour half of the marinade over the chops, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate.
  3. Preheat the Grill (10-15 minutes): Heat grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F). Clean and oil grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Pork Chops (8-10 minutes total): Remove chops from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill chops for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes.
  5. Apply the Glaze (last 2 minutes): Brush reserved marinade over pork chops generously. Turn chops and brush the other side. Watch closely to avoid burning; move to indirect heat if glaze blackens.
  6. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F. Remove from grill and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Keep a spray bottle of water handy to manage flare-ups caused by the sugary glaze. Avoid applying glaze too early to prevent burning. Rest pork chops after grilling to redistribute juices. Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness. For gluten-free, substitute tamari for soy sauce. Boneless chops can be used but watch cooking time closely.

Nutrition

Keywords: bourbon pork chops, brown sugar glaze, grilled pork chops, summer BBQ, easy pork recipe, savory pork chops, bourbon glaze