Ah, Grilled Kansas City Pork Chops! These beauties are not just any ordinary pork chop; they carry a treasure trove of smoky, sweet flavors and that iconic barbecue flair that makes your taste buds dance! I still remember the first time I tried this recipe at a summer barbecue at my friend’s place. The sun was shining, the grill was sizzling, and the moment those chops hit my plate, everything felt just right.
What makes these pork chops truly special is the Kansas City-style barbecue sauce. Its perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and a hint of smokiness elevates the humble chop to a smoking hot feast. Trust me, once you try these, they will surely steal the show at any family gathering or cookout!
What’s in Grilled Kansas City Pork Chops?
Let’s take a closer look at the stars of this recipe!
Boneless Pork Chops: These are juicy cuts, around 1 inch thick, and perfect for grilling. I tend to go for boneless since they cook more evenly and are super easy to handle on the grill.
Kansas City-style Barbecue Sauce: Ah, the magic ingredient! It provides a beautiful, sweet glaze with just the right amount of tang that is simply irresistible.
Olive Oil: A light touch of olive oil helps the marinade adhere to the meat while keeping it moist as it grills. It’s like a hydration station for our chops!
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: I adore these two! They bring in loads of flavor without the hassle of chopping fresh ingredients. A must-have duo in my pantry!
Smoked Paprika: This spice not only adds a deep red color but also provides a lovely smoky flavor that captures that grill essence beautifully.
Brown Sugar: A little sweetness to balance the spices and bring out those caramelized edges. Trust me; it makes a difference!
Salt and Black Pepper: Our basic seasonings that enhance all the flavors and bring everything together.
Fresh Parsley (Optional): A pop of color on your plate! But let’s be honest, it’s totally optional; the chop is the star here.
Is Grilled Kansas City Pork Chops Good for You?
Absolutely! These pork chops can be part of a well-balanced diet. Here are some health considerations:
Pork Chops: A great source of protein and B vitamins, particularly thiamine, niacin, and vitamin B6. They help in muscle repair and provide energy! Just be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re keeping an eye on your sodium intake.
Olive Oil: Packed with healthy fats, it’s a heart-friendly option compared to other oils. It’s rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation.
One thing to keep in mind is the BBQ sauce; some brands can be quite high in sugar and sodium. Try to opt for a low-sodium or homemade variety if health is a priority for you.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/4 cup Kansas City-style barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
This recipe serves 4 people.
How to Make Grilled Kansas City Pork Chops?
1. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful paste.
2. Rub the marinade on the pork chops, coating them evenly. Place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, cover, and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or if you can, overnight for that unbeatable flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F / 200°C.
4. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade.
5. Grill the pork chops for about 5-7 minutes on one side until you see those glorious grill marks.
6. Flip the chops, brush the tops with Kansas City barbecue sauce, and grill for another 5-7 minutes until your internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like that touch of green. Then, dig in and enjoy your succulent Grilled Kansas City Pork Chops with some delicious sides!
Grill Tips for Success!
– If you have time, marinate overnight for an explosion of flavor.
– Using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking; aim for that perfect 145°F!
– Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each chop enough space to cook evenly.
So there you have it: my favorite Grilled Kansas City Pork Chops recipe! I can’t wait for you to try this delightful dish. I promise once you take that first juicy bite, you’ll get why I’m so passionate about it. Don’t forget to share your experience; I love hearing your stories! Happy grilling!
