A Complete Guide to Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops
Pork chops are a backyard favorite, but they can be tricky—too hot and they dry out, too cool and they don’t cook evenly. The key to success is knowing exactly what temp to grill pork chops and how long to cook them based on thickness. Whether you’re working with 1-inch chops, 2-inch thick-cut chops, or anything in between, this guide covers everything you need to know about temps, times, and techniques for tender, juicy pork chops every time.
What Temp to Grill Pork Chops
The best chamber temperature for grilling pork chops is 375°F to 450°F. This range gives you enough heat for searing while still cooking evenly without drying the meat. The USDA recommends cooking pork chops to a safe internal temperature of 145°F, followed by a 3-minute rest. At this temp, the chops are safe to eat while staying tender and slightly pink in the center.
How Long to Cook 1 Inch Pork Chops on Grill
Wondering “how long to cook 1 inch pork chops on grill?” At medium-high heat (400°F):
- Direct heat: 4–5 minutes per side, total of 8–10 minutes, until internal temp reaches 145°F.
- Two-zone grilling: Sear 2 minutes per side over direct heat, then move to indirect heat for another 4–6 minutes until done.
If you’re asking “how long grill 1 inch pork chops?”, the quick answer is about 8–12 minutes, depending on your grill and whether you’re using bone-in or boneless chops.
How Long to Cook 2 Inch Pork Chops on Grill
Thicker chops need more time and a gentler approach. For “how long to cook 2 inch pork chops on grill” the best method is reverse searing:
- Set up grill for two-zone cooking (one hot side, one cooler side around 300°F).
- Cook chops over indirect heat for 12–15 minutes per side until internal temp is 135–140°F.
- Move to direct heat and sear 1–2 minutes per side to develop crust.
- Rest 3 minutes and serve.
Total time: about 25–30 minutes depending on grill temp and bone-in vs boneless.
How to Grill Thick Pork Chops on Gas Grill
If you’re wondering “how to grill thick pork chops on gas grill”, here’s the playbook:
- Preheat grill to 400°F with one burner on high and one burner on low for two-zone cooking.
- Place chops on the cooler side first, cooking slowly until they hit 135–140°F.
- Finish with a sear on the hot side to build flavor and caramelization.
- Remove when internal temp hits 145°F and rest for 3 minutes.
This method prevents burning the outside while ensuring the thick chop cooks evenly all the way through.
Tips for Juicy Pork Chops
- Brine before grilling: A quick 30-minute brine in salt water keeps chops moist.
- Use a meat thermometer: Don’t guess—check doneness at the center of the thickest chop.
- Bone-in holds flavor: Bone-in chops often cook juicier and add more flavor.
- Let them rest: Always let chops rest 3–5 minutes before cutting to redistribute juices.
FAQs
What temp should I cook pork chops to on the grill?
Cook pork chops to an internal temperature of 145°F, then rest for 3 minutes.
How long do you grill 1 inch pork chops?
About 8–12 minutes total, flipping halfway, until the center hits 145°F.
How do you grill thick pork chops on a gas grill?
Cook them with a two-zone method: indirect heat until nearly done, then sear directly over high heat.
How long to cook 2 inch pork chops on grill?
About 25–30 minutes total using indirect heat followed by a quick sear.
What’s the best temp to grill pork chops?
Grill at 375°F–450°F until chops reach 145°F internal temp.
Conclusion
Grilling pork chops comes down to two things: steady grill temp and careful timing. For 1-inch chops, expect 8–12 minutes at 400°F. For 2-inch chops, plan for 25–30 minutes with indirect heat and a finishing sear. No matter the cut, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F and a short rest before serving. With these techniques, your pork chops will come off the grill juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor every time.
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