The Ultimate Pork Chops (Juicy, Flavorful, and Foolproof!)

These truly are The Ultimate Pork Chops! Forget dry, bland pork chops - this recipe delivers incredibly juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked chops every time. The secret is a simple brine that ensures the pork stays moist and tender, followed by a flavorful dry rub that creates a beautiful crust. Whether you grill them or pan-sear them, these pork chops are guaranteed to impress. Get ready to experience pork chop perfection!

Why You'll Love These Ultimate Pork Chops

• Incredibly Juicy: The brine ensures the pork chops stay incredibly moist and tender, even if you slightly overcook them.
• Bold Flavor: The combination of the brine and the flavorful dry rub creates a complex and delicious flavor profile.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: You can grill these pork chops, pan-sear them, or even bake them.
• Foolproof Recipe: The brine and the simple cooking instructions make it nearly impossible to mess up these pork chops.

Ingredients for The Ultimate Pork Chops

Here's what you'll need to make these amazing pork chops. The full list with measurements is in the recipe card below.

Brine

• Kosher salt (Seasoning)
• Sugar (Sweetener)
• Water (Liquid)
• Ice (to cool the brine)

Pork Chops

• Bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick) (Meat)

Rub

• Paprika (Spice)
• Garlic powder (Spice)
• Cumin (Spice)
• Onion powder (Spice)
• Ground mustard (Spice)
• Black pepper (Spice)
• Chili powder (Spice Blend)

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

I love these Ultimate Pork Chops as is, but here are a few ideas for variations:

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the rub.
• Different Herbs: Add some dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the rub.
• Sweet and Smoky: Add some brown sugar and smoked paprika to the rub.
• Glaze: Brush the pork chops with your favorite barbecue sauce or a honey-mustard glaze during the last few minutes of cooking.

How to Make The Ultimate Pork Chops

Let me show you how to make these incredibly juicy and flavorful Ultimate Pork Chops:

Make the Brine

1. In a large pan, I combine the kosher salt, sugar, and water.
2. I cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
3. I remove the pan from the heat and add the ice to cool the brine to room temperature. This is important - you don't want to add the pork chops to a hot brine!

Brine the Pork Chops

1. I place the pork chops in a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag.
2. I pour the cooled brine over the pork chops.
3. I seal the bag, making sure to remove any excess air.
4. I refrigerate for 8 to 12 hours. This brining step is crucial for juicy, flavorful pork chops.

Prepare the Rub

1. While the pork chops are brining, I combine the ingredients for the rub: paprika, garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, ground mustard, black pepper, and chili powder.

Prepare the Pork Chops

1. I remove the pork chops from the brine.
2. I rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pat them very dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere and promotes browning.

Apply the Rub

1. I sprinkle the rub generously on both sides of the pork chops, pressing it gently into the meat.

Cook the Pork Chops

1. I prepare my grill for medium-high heat. (You can also cook these in a skillet on the stovetop or bake them in the oven.)
2. I cook the pork chops until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This usually takes about 4-5 minutes per side on the grill, but the exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chops and the heat of your grill/pan.

Rest and Serve

1. I let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chop.

Tips and Tricks for the JUICIEST Pork Chops

Here are my secrets for making these pork chops truly the ultimate:

• Brining is Key: Don't skip the brining step! It makes a huge difference in the juiciness and flavor of the pork chops.
• Pat the Pork Chops Dry: After rinsing the pork chops, pat them very dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere and promotes browning.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure perfectly cooked pork chops is to use a meat thermometer.
• Let them Rest: Resting the pork chops after cooking is essential for allowing the juices to redistribute.

How to Serve

These Ultimate Pork Chops are delicious served with:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots.
• Salad: A simple green salad or a Caesar salad would complement the pork chops nicely.
• Applesauce: A side of applesauce is a traditional and delicious accompaniment to pork chops.

Make Ahead and Storage

You can brine the pork chops for up to 12 hours in advance. Leftover cooked pork chops can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, in the oven, or in the microwave.

FAQs about The Ultimate Pork Chops

• Can I use boneless pork chops?
  • Yes, you can use boneless pork chops, but bone-in chops tend to be more flavorful and juicy.
• Can I skip the brining step?
  • I highly recommend brining the pork chops for the best results. However, if you're short on time, you can skip it, but the pork chops may not be as juicy.
• What if I don't have all the spices for the rub?
  • You can adjust the rub to your liking. Use what you have on hand, or try a pre-made seasoning blend.

Enjoy these incredibly juicy and flavorful Ultimate Pork Chops! They're a simple yet impressive meal that's sure to become a new favorite.

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