Simple Grilled Pork Recipe with Peach Summer Slaw

This simple grilled pork recipe is easy, healthy and works great for thick-cut pork chops. Don't miss the summer slaw with peaches!

Most people think of burgers, hotdogs and maybe some basic grilled chicken when they think of the grill.

Grilling is actually an excellent way to cook pork chops though, as you'll soon see in this simple grilled pork recipe! It results in incredibly flavorful, juicy pork chops that everyone will love.

I kept this recipe simple so the smoky flavor from the grill can really shine through. To start, you'll simply sprinkle your thick-cut pork chops with salt and pepper. You'll then cook them directly on a medium-high grill for about 3-5 minutes per side. That's it!

I do highly recommend you use a meat thermometer to determine when your pork chops are done. Otherwise, you'll likely overcook them in an effort not to undercook them. Overcooked pork chops are super dry and tough so you want to avoid this!

All pork should be cooked to 145F. This helpful article from the Kitchn has more tips on how to check the temperature. If you have memories of eating dry pork chops or think you don't like pork chops, it's likely because the USDA used to recommend cooking pork to 160F, which results in quite dry and hard to chew meat. If that was your experience, make sure to give pork chops another try!

I love serving a fresh summer slaw with any grilled meat and it's the perfect complement to these grilled thick pork chops. You'll notice the slaw doesn't call for any mayo. While creamy slaws can certainly be tasty, I love this more bright and acidic version for summer.

If you happen to be making this when it's not summer and you can't find ripe peaches, thinly sliced apples work well here too!

 

Variations on Grilled Thick Pork Chops

I purposely kept this grilled thick pork chops recipe simple because I love highlighting the flavor imparted by the grill. That said, this recipe is quite versatile! If you have a favorite seasoning or spice blend, feel free to sprinkle some on there!

Here are some simple ideas for variations:

• Marinate pork in 1/2 cup olive oil & 1/4 cup balsamic
• Rub pork chops with my Moroccan Spice blend before grilling
• Marinate pork in pesto (here's my Dairy Free Pesto recipe!)
• Top grilled pork chops with teriyaki sauce. I love this homemade teriyaki sauce. It's just as good on pork as on the salmon in the original recipe.

You can also of course vary the meal by switching up the side. Here are a few simple, homemade sides that would be delicious with this gilled pork recipe:

• Grilled fruit! This is one of my all time favorite summer sides.
• Summer Quinoa Salad with Goat Cheese – This one is the perfect prep-ahead side, making it a great choice to serve at a get together.
• Watermelon, Feta & Arugula Salad
• Healthy Baked Beans & Coleslaw

Is this simple grilled pork recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! While the actual grilled pork recipe is simple enough that it doesn't require any prep, I do recommend making the summer slaw dressing ahead of time. Taking little steps like this to prepare for the week makes dinner time SO much less stressful!

Simply combine all of the slaw dressing ingredients in a container and store in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, bring the dressing to room temperature (just let it sit out while you grill the pork) and mix it with the slaw.

What's the nutrition like for these easy grilled pork chops?

These easy grilled pork chops offer quite a bit of nutrition! For such a simple recipe, you'll gain many vitamins and nutrients from this healthy summer meal, making it one you can feel good about feeding your family!

Pork Chops (Selenium, Zinc, Iron, Potassium, Magnesium)

In addition to providing plenty of high quality protein, pork chops are an excellent source of selenium, as well as zinc and iron. Keep in mind that pork chops are considered red meat, which the USDA recommends limiting.

Olive Oil (Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Monounsaturated Fats, Antioxidants)

Due to the type of fat it contains, olive oil may reduce inflammation. It also reduces the risk of Alzheimer's, stroke and heart disease. Make sure to get high quality extra virgin olive oil, as it retains more antioxidants and nutrients.

Apple Cider Vinegar (Small Amount of Potassium, Antioxidants)

Apple cider vinegar is anecdotally believed to have all sorts of benefits. Two of those benefits best supported by science are its ability to help stabilize blood sugar and to aid in weight loss. Apple cider vinegar also has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.

Lemons (Vitamin C, Citric Acid)

Just one lemon provides 51% of the daily recommended vitamin C. This is important not only to fight colds, but for long term health as studies show consuming produce with vitamin C helps prevent heart disease and stroke. Consuming lemons may also help protect against anemia and kidney stones, likely due to their citric acid content.

Peaches (Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Potassium, Vitamin E)

Peaches are high in vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium and antioxidants. Some studies also show that a compound found in peaches may help keep your skin moisturized!

Cabbage (Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Folate, Manganese, Vitamin B6, Potassium)

Cabbage contains a particularly high amount of Vitamin K. It's also a great source of Vitamin C and folate. Like other cruciferous vegetables, cabbage is good for reducing inflammation. It's high fiber content also supports healthy digestion.

I want more grilled pork recipes!

If you try this recipe and fall in love with grilled pork chops (which you just might!) I have another great grilled pork recipe for you.