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Flavorful Bourbon Brown Sugar Grilled Pork Chops Perfect Sweet Glaze Recipe

bourbon brown sugar grilled pork chops - featured image

These bourbon brown sugar grilled pork chops feature a sweet and smoky glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating juicy, tender pork with a sticky, flavorful crust. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick (68 oz / 170225 g each)
  • ½ cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) bourbon whiskey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Olive oil, for brushing pork chops

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, bourbon, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Whisk until sugar dissolves and mixture is smooth (about 5 minutes).
  2. Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Place pork chops on the grill and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to develop grill marks.
  5. Flip the chops using tongs and brush the first side generously with the bourbon brown sugar glaze. Cook for another 4 minutes.
  6. Turn the chops again and brush the opposite side with glaze. Grill for an additional 3-4 minutes, basting once more if desired.
  7. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). If no thermometer, cut into the thickest part to ensure it is just barely pink and juicy.
  8. Remove pork chops from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and glaze to set.

Notes

Apply glaze after the initial sear to prevent burning. Use bone-in pork chops for juicier meat. Let pork chops come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking. Watch for flare-ups due to sugar in glaze. Glaze can be made ahead and stored in fridge up to 2 days.

Nutrition

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