These spice-rubbed pork chops are so easy to make and turn out super flavorful thanks to the dry rub. You can whip up this delicious dinner in 20 minutes or less!
I love grilling when I want something easy and delicious. The grill always adds that wonderful smoky flavor. And if the food I’m cooking has a dry rub, it’s even better.
That’s why I love these spice-rubbed pork chops!
You can make them on the grill or use a grill pan depending on what you prefer. Either way, the whole process takes less than 20 minutes.
This recipe is a bit high in saturated fat — that’s to be expected with pork. However, it’s also low in sodium, low in carbs, and a good source of protein and vitamins.
So the next time you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner that everyone will love, you have to give these flavorful chops a try!
How to make spice-rubbed pork chops
Ready to see how easy it is to whip up this tasty dish?
Step 1: Mix the chili powder, cumin, Hot Shot! (or ground black and red peppers), and salt in small bowl.
Step 2: Place the pork chops on a cutting board and spread about half of the seasoning mixture on the exposed surface.
Step 3: Lightly pound the chops with a meat tenderizing mallet to help the seasonings stick. If you don’t have a mallet, anything heavy will do.
Step 4: Turn the chops over and repeat with the remaining seasoning mixture.
Step 5: Preheat the grill or grill pan. If using the pan, add olive oil and use a silicone pastry brush to distribute evenly across the ridges of the pan.
Step 6: Place the pork chops on the hot grill or pan and cook for about 5 minutes on the first side without lifting or turning.
Step 7: Flip the chops and cook an additional 4-5 minutes or until the pork is fully cooked through.
Your chops are ready to enjoy!
Tenderizing the meat
When pounding the chops with the meat tenderizing mallet, it’s important not to pound them too hard. Otherwise, the chops will be too thin and at risk of overcooking.
The goal of using the meat tenderizer is to help the seasonings stick to the surface of the chops. That’s why I recommend a light touch!
What to serve with this dish
Grilling simple dishes like pork chops always makes me want local corn on the cob. If you enjoy corn, that would be my first recommendation.
Roasted potatoes and grilled veggies are always great options. A simple salad would be a delicious side as well!
The flavor from the spice rub will complement most dishes, so really, it just depends on what sounds good to you.
Storage
These chops make great leftovers. You can enjoy them as is, or slice them up to go over salads or in tacos!
Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Other easy pork recipes
Pork is such a versatile protein. It’s a little higher in fat, but it also adds so much flavor to your meal. If you enjoy cooking with pork, here are a few recipes I know you’ll love:
Looking for more tasty meal inspiration? Check out this round-up of my favorite low-carb dinner recipes for diabetics!
When you’ve tried this dish, please don’t forget to let me know how you liked it and rate the recipe in the comments below!
Spice-Rubbed Pulled Pork
Ingredients
- ½ tablespoon chili powder
- ½ tablespoon ground cumin
- ½ tablespoon Hot Shot pepper blend (or combination of ground black and red peppers)
- dash sea salt
- 4 boneless pork center loin chops (about 4 oz each)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions
- Mix the chili powder, cumin, Hot Shot! (or ground black and red peppers), and salt in small bowl.
- Place the pork chops on a cutting board and spread about half of the seasoning mixture on the exposed surface.
- Lightly pound the chops with a meat tenderizing mallet to help the seasonings stick.
- Turn the chops over and repeat with the remaining seasoning mixture.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan. If using the pan, add olive oil and use a silicone pastry brush to distribute evenly across the ridges of the pan.
- Place the pork chops on the hot grill or pan and cook about 5 minutes on the first side without lifting or turning.
- Flip the chops and cook an additional 4-5 minutes or until the pork is fully cooked through.
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