As the summer months approach, our outdoor gatherings and barbecues become more frequent. One of my favorite summer grilling recipes is BBQ pork chops paired with sweet corn on the cob, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, and you don’t need an outdoor grill to enjoy it. You can achieve equally tasty results using a broiler or stovetop grill pan. The key to these flavorful pork chops lies in the balsamic vinaigrette marinade, which adds depth and tanginess to the meat.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal is quick to prepare and doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. I’ll guide you through each step to create this mouth-watering dish that’s sure to become a family favorite on your dinner menu.
Why You’ll Love These BBQ Pork Chops with Corn on the Cob
Grilled to perfection, BBQ pork chops with corn on the cob are the epitome of a perfect summer meal. This dish is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits and is perfect for the summer season.
Health Benefits of Grilling
Grilling is a healthy cooking method because it doesn’t require a lot of fat. As the meat grills, extra fats drip away, leaving less fat in your food. This method seals in moisture, making the pork chop tender and juicy.
Perfect Summer Meal
This pork chop and corn on the cob combination is my quintessential summer meal, celebrating seasonal produce. The sweetness of fresh corn pairs perfectly with the savory, smoky flavors of the grilled pork chop.
| Benefits | Description |
|---|---|
| Healthy Cooking | Grilling reduces fat in food |
| Seasonal Produce | Celebrates fresh corn and grilled pork |
| Outdoor Cooking | Keeps your kitchen cool during summer |
I love adding this recipe to my summer menu because it’s both impressive and easy to prepare. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make this meal feel special.
Ingredients for BBQ Pork Chops with Corn on the Cob
Let’s dive into the essential ingredients required for preparing mouth-watering BBQ pork chops with corn on the cob. To start, you’ll need a selection of fresh and flavorful components.
For the Balsamic Vinaigrette
While the primary focus is on the pork and corn, a good balsamic vinaigrette can complement the dish nicely, though it’s not directly used in the grilling process.
For the Pork Chops and Corn
For the main components, you’ll need 1 lb. of pork chops, preferably bone-in and at least 1-inch thick for juiciness. You’ll also need 3 cobs of fresh corn, with bright green husks and golden silk. To enhance the corn, a compound 
butter made with 1 1/2 tbsp of butter and 1 tbsp of sun-dried tomatoes in oil is recommended. Don’t forget kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to season both the pork chops and the corn.
- Opt for pork chops with some marbling for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Fresh corn on the cob is crucial – the fresher, the better the flavor.
- Using room-temperature butter makes it easier to mix with sun-dried tomatoes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
To achieve perfectly grilled BBQ pork chops with corn on the cob, follow these straightforward steps.
Preparing the Marinade
The marinade is a crucial element for flavorful pork chops. I prepare it by mixing the necessary ingredients together, ensuring they’re well combined.
Marinating the Pork Chops
Once the marinade is ready, I coat the pork chops evenly and let them marinate for the recommended time to absorb all the flavors.
Grilling the Pork Chops
Grilling is where the magic happens. I grill the pork chops until they’re cooked through, achieving a nice char on the outside.
Preparing the Corn on the Cob
While the pork chops are resting, I prepare the corn on the cob. I husk the corn and remove all the silk for the best flavor. Then, I microwave it for 1½ to 2½ minutes, depending on its thickness. After microwaving, I toss the corn in compound butter, ensuring it’s well coated. Finally, I season it with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley to enhance its natural sweetness. The result is delicious corn on the cob that’s ready to serve alongside the grilled pork chops.
For added smoky flavor, you can also grill the corn alongside the pork chops. To present, I sometimes cut the corn into smaller pieces and toss them with the flavored butter again.
Serving Suggestions and Final Tips
A barbecue menu isn’t complete without the star attraction: BBQ pork chops served with corn on the cob. To enhance your meal, serve these pork chops with a simple green salad dressed with the remaining balsamic dressing. Consider offering compound butter on the side for added flavor.
These pork recipes pair well with summer sides like coleslaw or grilled vegetables. Honey mustard is a great additional condiment for a sweeter flavor. Leftover pork makes excellent sandwiches the next day, served on crusty bread with more honey mustard.
