"Chains and Things " Easy Smoked Pork Chops

For pork chop lovers ain't nothing worst than biting down into dry chewy pork chops. Dive deep into this post for smoked pork chops as we show you how to get tender juicy chops every time by using a simple but flavor-inducing brine.

Indulge your senses in a culinary masterpiece that's a harmony of taste and technique - our Oak-Smoked Apple Cider Brined Pork Chops. Picture this: succulent pork chops infused with the essence of sweet apple cider and tenderly enveloped in a medley of aromatic spices. But that's not all – these chops are taken to the next level as they dance with the gentle embrace of oak wood smoke, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds in awe.

In this dope recipe, we unveil the secret to achieving the most tender and flavorful pork chops you've ever experienced. The journey begins with a delicate brining process, where the chops soak in a bath of apple cider, enhancing their natural juiciness while infusing a hint of fruity sweetness. This simple but game-changing marinade is a prelude to a slow and low enchanting oak wood smoke, which imparts a deep, earthy undertone that perfectly complements the pork's natural richness.

Whether you're an aspiring grill master or a seasoned culinary aficionado, our smoked pork chops recipe invites you to embark on a great foodie adventure. It's a journey where skill meets passion, where carefully selected ingredients unite to create a symposium of flavors that celebrate the artistry of slow smoking. So, fire up your smoker, prepare your taste buds, and get ready to savor pork chops that redefine the boundaries of smoky perfection.

This is a 5 ingredient main entree that comes together easily for comforting dinner. The simple paprika based rub combined with the mild oak flavor put these chops over the top.

Beats and Eats (music to pair with smoked chops)

As the soulful melodies of B.B. King's "Chains and Things" fill the air, they find a perfect harmony with the delectable aroma of our Oak-Smoked Apple Cider Brined Pork Chops. Just as B.B. King's music weaves emotions into notes, our smoked pork chops weave flavors into every bite.

Picture this: the smooth, bluesy rhythm of "Chains and Things" sets the stage for a culinary experience that's just as soul-stirring. The luscious pork chops, kissed by the smoky embrace of oak wood, echo the song's depth and complexity. As B.B. King's guitar strings tell stories of life's ups and downs, our smoked pork chops carry the tale of tender meat transformed by brine and smoke.

With each bite of these succulent chops, you'll find a connection between the bluesy allure of B.B. King's music and the rich, smoky layers of flavor in your plate. So let the music play, let the aroma linger, and relish the symphony of "Chains and Things" resonating in your soul as you indulge in these top notch smoked meats.

Choosing the right cut of pork

When it comes to making the best smoked pork chops, the choice of cut can make all the difference in flavor and tenderness. While pork loin chops are a popular option, there is another cut that deserves some recognition: the rib chop.

Rib chops are taken from the rib section just behind the shoulder blade, and they have exceptional marbling throughout the meat. This delightful marbling not only adds juiciness and tenderness to the chops but also enhances their smoky flavor when cooked low and slow on a smoker.

Another excellent choice for smoked pork chops is the bone-in center-cut chop. These juicy thick cut pork chops come from the center of the loin, ensuring optimal tenderness.

This particular cut boasts a generous amount of fat along with rich marbling, making them perfect for withstanding long hours in a smoker without drying out. The bone-in feature also adds extra flavor during smoking, as bones lend depth to any dish they're cooked with.

In conclusion, while pork loin chops are undoubtedly delicious options for grilling or pan-frying, when it comes to smoking pork chops, rib chops and bone in pork chops reign supreme.

Their marbled meat and optimal fat content allow them to absorb flavors beautifully during slow-smoking sessions, resulting in tender and flavorful bites that will leave you wanting more. So next time you fire up your smoker, consider exploring these alternative cuts for an unforgettable smoked pork chop experience.

What Is A Brine

Brining is essential to smoking pork chops without drying them out. A brine is a liquid solution that is used to enhance the juiciness, tenderness, and flavor of various types of meat. When it comes to making the best pork chops, a brine can make a world of difference in elevating its taste and texture. Essentially, a pork brine is a mixture of water, salt, sugar, and often additional seasonings or aromatics like herbs and spices.

Brining works by allowing the pork to absorb moisture from the solution through a process called osmosis if you recall from your high school science class Full disclosure I slept through mine and learned what it was later. The salt in the brine helps break down muscle fibers while also trapping water within them.

As a result, when you cook your brined pork, it retains more moisture which translates into juicier meat. Additionally, the sugar in the brine aids in browning and adds a subtle sweetness to offset any potential saltiness.

One might wonder about the science behind this magical transformation. It all comes down to cellular structure: as water enters the pork cells during brining, these cells swell up and become full-bodied with moisture.

This plumping effect prevents overcooking and gives you juicy results every time you cook your favorite cut of pork – whether it's tenderloin or chops! So next time you're looking for ways to elevate your pork dishes from ordinary to extraordinary, consider giving them a refreshing soak in a delectable homemade brine!

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make smoked pork chops:

For The Brine

• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Brown sugar
• fresh thyme or oregano
• Garlic cloves
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper

For The Pork Chops

• Bone-in thick cut pork chops - definitely go with bone-in over boneless pork chops

For The Spice Rub

• Kosher Salt
• Black Pepper
• Smoked Paprika
• Garlic Powder

How to cook smoked pork chops

Smoking pork chops is a simple affair. Don’t overthink things. Just:

• Brine
• Season
• Smoke
• Eat

How to cook smoked pork chops

Smoking pork chops is a simple affair. Don’t overthink things. Just:

• Brine
• Season
• Smoke
• Eat

Brine the Pork Chops

A good pork chop brine is the key to juicy porks regardless of how you cook them. Brines also add flavor and depending on ingredients you use, will add color as well. This apple cider brine includes brown sugar. The combination of sugars helps provide that darker color when smoking.

I brine overnight, but you should brine for at least 6 hours. After brining, pat the chops dry with a paper towel and then allow them to sit and reach room temperature.

Season the chops

Smoked pork chops don’t need a lot of seasoning for flavor. The brine and actual wood smoke provide a lot in the flavor department. For the pork chop seasoning I simply season with kosher salt, some coarse black pepper, garlic and paprika. Just make sure you evenly season pork chops. Most days it’s simply salt and pepper, but I was really pushing for dark pork chops and the red, earthy paprika provides that on top of the brine. 

Smoke the chops

How you smoke the chops in terms of temperature and time will depend on your smoker and the thickness of the chops. Smokers vary in their ability to maintain consistent temperatures which produce different time results. Obviously thicker chops will take longer, so keep that in mind.

I cooked my chops in my Traeger Pellet Smoker which is efficient, easy to use, and it does a good job of maintaining a steady temperature. I smoke the chops on plain grill grates between 225-250 degrees. Chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees which should take you about 45-60 minutes plus plan for another 5 minutes to let the pork chops rest.

What To Serve With This Smoked Pork Chop Recipe

Consider these goody good side dishes that will harmonize perfectly with the rich and smoky flavors of these chops.

1. Collard Greens Slaw: Crisp, refreshing, and a touch of sweetness, this slaw adds a wonderful contrast to the smokiness of the pork chops.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic companion to pork. Infuse them with roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor that plays beautifully off the smokiness.
3. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled or roasted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus not only adds vibrant colors to your plate but also brings a touch of freshness that balances the richness of the pork.
4. Maple Glazed Carrots: These tender, slightly sweet carrots glazed with maple syrup offer a touch of sweetness that enhances the savory notes of the smoked pork chops.
5. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad, a comforting mash of tender potatoes, crunchy vegetables, and a velvety dressing that's the quintessential side for any occasion.

Tips and Considerations For Making Smoked Chops

• Avoid boneless chops in favor of a bone-in thick cut pork chop
• Rub pork chops generously with the spice rub
• The thicker the chop the better when smoking
• Cook time is relatively short so you have flexibility in the type of wood you use. 
• After the chops are done cooking, let the chops rest 5-10 minutes before serving.
• Serve with a side of roasted brussels sprouts with grapes or simple bell pepper salad

FAQs

Can I smoke pork chops on a gas grill?

Absolutely! While most people associate smoking with traditional wood or charcoal smokers, you can still achieve that smoky flavor on a gas grill. The key is indirect cooking: set up your grill for two-zone grilling by turning off one burner and placing the chops on the unlit side. Then, create smoke packets by wrapping soaked wood chips in aluminum foil and poking holes in the packet to let the smoke escape. Place these packets directly over the lit burner, close the lid, and let those pork chops soak up that mouthwatering smokiness!

Can I use different types of wood for smoking pork chops?

Without a doubt! Experimenting with different types of wood can elevate your smoked pork chop experience by adding unique, mouth-watering flavors. Hickory wood offers a robust and rich smokiness that pairs exceptionally well with pork. For a milder taste with slightly sweet undertones, applewood or cherrywood are excellent options worth exploring.

How do I prevent my smoked pork chops from drying out?

Moisture retention is key when it comes to perfecting smoked pork chops with incredible tenderness and juiciness. One effective trick is to brine the meat before smoking it – this involves soaking the cuts in a solution of salt, sugar, and spices for several hours or overnight prior to cooking. Another tip is to wrap your smoked pork chops in aluminum foil toward the end of the smoking process; this Texas crutch technique can help lock in moisture while infusing even more flavor into each bite.

How Do You Reheat Leftover Smoked Pork Chops?

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 250°F (163°C) to ensure gentle reheating without sacrificing tenderness.
2. Wrap in Foil: Individually wrap each pork chop in aluminum foil, creating a snug package to lock in moisture and prevent drying.
3. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the wrapped pork chops on a baking sheet, leaving space between them to facilitate even heating.
4. Reheat Time: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the pork chops warm for about 15-20 minutes. The foil helps create a steamy environment that prevents the meat from becoming dry.
5. Check Internal Temperature: For the best results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Your goal is to reach an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C) while reheating.

For other delicious pork chops or pork based dishes try these:

• Brined Pork Chop
• Smoked Spare Ribs
• Puerto Rican Pork Chops
• Pork Belly Burnt Ends
• Fried Pork Chops
• Grilled Pork Steaks

Make This Delicious Smoked Pork Chops Recipe

These easy smoked pork chops offer a delicious combination of tender meat and rich smoky flavor that is sure to leave your taste buds enchanted. The slow smoking process infuses the chops with a unique aroma and tenderness that cannot be replicated through other cooking methods. These tender pork chops are not only delicious but also versatile, opening up a world of culinary possibilities.

If you make these pork chops, please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

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