This Barbecue Pork Chops recipe is cooked on the stovetop in a cast iron skillet but tastes like it came straight off a backyard grill. These BBQ pork chops can be pan-seared or baked and are quick and simple to prepare.
If you grew up with memories of overcooked pork chops topped with sauerkraut, it’s time to replace those memories with this juicy, family-friendly version. These pork chops stay moist, are full of flavor, and come together with minimal effort.
Made in a cast-iron skillet, these BBQ pork chops are an easy weeknight dinner. You can sear them on the stovetop or finish them in the oven depending on your preference. Paired with tangy barbecue sauce, these chops are anything but boring—tender, saucy, and one of our go-to dinners.
I favor simple recipes, and these pork chops fit the bill. They require only a few minutes of prep: rub with oil, season, sear, and finish with barbecue sauce. Add your favorite sides and you’ll have dinner ready quickly. These juicy chops are a reader favorite for good reason.
Ingredient Notes
Basic ingredients you’ll need:
- Boneless pork chops, about 1½ inches thick — Bone-in chops can be used, but boneless work well in a skillet and save space. (For grilling, bone-in is a great choice.)
- Olive oil — for rubbing the chops to reduce splatter and help seasoning adhere.
- Kosher salt and black pepper — for straightforward seasoning.
- Barbecue sauce — your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce.
Equipment Needed
- Cast iron pan or a heavy-bottomed skillet. If baking, use an oven-safe skillet.
- Tongs for flipping the chops.
- An instant-read thermometer or reliable meat thermometer to check doneness.
How to Make Them
Preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. While the skillet warms, rub each pork chop with olive oil—rubbing the oil on the meat helps reduce splatter. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
When the skillet is hot, add a small amount of oil and swirl to coat. Carefully place the pork chops in the pan and cook undisturbed for 7–8 minutes to develop a good sear. Flip the chops and spoon a light layer of barbecue sauce over the cooked side, letting it drip slightly down the edges. Use just enough sauce to coat; too much can overwhelm the pork and may burn in the pan.
Continue cooking for another 7–8 minutes. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer — the safe doneness for pork is 145°F. Thicker chops may need a few extra minutes.
How to Make Baked Barbecue Pork Chops
If you prefer to avoid oil splatter or need the stovetop for other tasks, bake the chops. Preheat the oven to 350°F and place your cast-iron skillet in the oven to heat. Rub and season the chops, then arrange them in the hot skillet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once if you like, and brush with barbecue sauce during the last five minutes of cooking. Verify doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F.
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops
Allow leftovers to cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–5 days. Reheat gently in the oven, air fryer, or microwave, or enjoy cold on a sandwich.
Helpful Tips
- Keep pork chop thickness consistent so they cook evenly. If sizes vary, check the smallest piece first and remove it when it reaches 145°F to avoid overcooking.
- Use a meat thermometer for reliable results. Pork can still show a little pink at 145°F and remain safe and juicy.
Pork Chop Variations
- Dry rub: Apply a light BBQ spice rub before searing for extra depth—don’t overdo the spices, as pork has a delicate flavor.
- Smoky sauce: Choose a barbecue sauce with smoky notes to enhance the pork’s flavor.
- Sweet glaze: Mix a little dark brown sugar or maple syrup into the barbecue sauce for a sweet, caramelized finish.
Side Dishes for Pork Chops
Serve these chops with extra warmed barbecue sauce on the side. They pair well with vegetables and potatoes. Popular sides include roasted rosemary potatoes, baked french fries, cheesy hashbrown potatoes, or Southern-style green beans. Even simple frozen vegetables make an easy, quick accompaniment.
Did you make this recipe? If so, please leave a comment and rating below. I love hearing from you.
Barbecue Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1½ inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (approximately)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce (approximately)
Instructions
BBQ Pork Chops on the Stovetop
- Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium heat.
- Rub the pork chops with olive oil and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place the chops in the hot skillet and cook 7–8 minutes on the first side. Flip the chops, brush lightly with barbecue sauce, and cook another 7–8 minutes.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 145°F when done.
- Serve with more barbecue sauce if desired.
How to Make Baked Barbecue Pork Chops in the Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and place the cast iron skillet in the oven to heat.
- Rub and season chops, then place them in the hot skillet. Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping if desired. Brush with barbecue sauce during the last five minutes.
- Verify doneness with a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 145°F.
- Serve with additional barbecue sauce, optional.
Nutrition
Calories: 269 kcal
Carbohydrates: 7 g
Protein: 29 g
Fat: 13 g
Nutrition information is approximate and should be used as a guide.