These Grilled Maple Glazed Pork Chops are a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory. A simple yet bold marinade featuring real maple syrup, soy sauce, and spices infuses the meat with flavor and moisture. As the pork chops hit the grill, the marinade thickens into a rich, caramelized glaze—ideal for summer grilling or cozy fall dinners. Serve with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 4–6 pork chops (boneless or bone-in)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• ¼ cup light or dark brown sugar

• ½ teaspoon liquid smoke

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 cloves)

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon orange zest

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 3 tablespoons maple syrup

• ⅓ cup soy sauce

Directions

1. Prepare the pork: Ensure pork chops are of even thickness and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together all ingredients except the pork chops.

3. Marinate: Place pork chops in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Pour in the marinade and coat evenly. Marinate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).

4. Reduce the sauce: After marinating, pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan. Boil for 5–7 minutes, then strain through a mesh sieve to create a thickened glaze.

5. Grill the pork: Preheat the grill to medium or medium-high heat. Grill pork chops for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

6. Glaze and rest: Brush with the maple glaze during the last few minutes of grilling. Let the pork rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.

Nutrients (Per serving — based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 307 kcal

• Protein: 22 g

• Fat: 14 g

• Saturated Fat: 4 g

• Carbohydrates: 23 g

• Sugar: 20 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Cholesterol: 67 mg

• Sodium: 60 mg

• Potassium: 479 mg

• Vitamin A: 951 IU

• Vitamin C: 1 mg

• Calcium: 48 mg

• Iron: 1 mg

A Marinade That Does the Heavy Lifting

What sets these pork chops apart is the complexity and balance of the marinade. It’s not just about sweetness from the maple syrup—it’s a harmony of ingredients that creates layers of flavor:

• Maple syrup brings a rich, earthy sweetness that thickens beautifully during cooking.

• Soy sauce adds umami depth and saltiness, helping to season the meat thoroughly.

• Brown sugar enhances the caramelization, giving the glaze a slightly sticky, barbecue-like texture.

• Garlic, onion powder, oregano, and paprika infuse the marinade with warmth, smokiness, and herbal notes.

• Liquid smoke and orange zest offer a subtle contrast—one smoky, the other citrusy—that brightens the dish and rounds out the richness.

• Red pepper flakes (optional) add a gentle kick for those who like a little heat.

This no-fuss marinade comes together in minutes but transforms the pork chops into a full-flavored showstopper. Letting the meat marinate for at least two hours allows the flavors to fully penetrate, but overnight marination results in the most deeply seasoned and tender pork.

Grilling for Perfect Texture and Flavor

Pork chops can easily dry out if overcooked, but this recipe keeps them succulent and juicy thanks to both the marinade and the grilling technique. The key is to grill the chops over medium or medium-high heat, which allows the meat to cook through evenly while developing a beautiful char and glaze on the surface.

Once the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)—the USDA’s recommended safe temperature for pork—it’s time to remove it from the grill. A short rest period of 3–5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

The Magic of the Glaze

After the chops are removed from the marinade, don’t toss the liquid—reduce it down on the stovetop to create a silky glaze. This step concentrates the flavors and ensures that every chop is coated in sweet, sticky goodness. A quick boil eliminates any bacteria from the raw pork and intensifies the flavor, while straining ensures a smooth finish.

Brush the glaze onto the chops during the last few minutes of grilling to prevent burning and to give the glaze just enough time to set and caramelize. The result is a glossy, golden-brown coating that clings to the meat and adds irresistible depth.

Serving Suggestions to Complete the Meal

These Grilled Maple Glazed Pork Chops are versatile enough to match with countless sides, whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a special occasion. Here are a few pairing ideas that highlight their smoky-sweet profile:

• Roasted vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or parsnips complement the maple notes beautifully.

• Grilled corn or zucchini: Keep it seasonal and summery with charred veggies.

• Crisp green salad: A fresh salad with citrus vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the richness of the glaze.

• Mashed potatoes or wild rice: For a heartier meal, these starches soak up extra glaze and juices deliciously.

• Apple slaw: A tangy apple and cabbage slaw adds crunch and acidity to balance the pork’s sweetness.

Whether served plated for a dinner party or sliced and served family-style, these chops bring a bold flavor profile that feels both rustic and refined.

Nutritional Profile and Dietary Considerations

Each serving of these grilled maple pork chops offers approximately 307 calories, making them a solid option for those looking for a high-protein, moderate-carb meal. With 22 grams of protein and healthy fats from the pork and vegetable oil, they are satisfying and balanced. The sugars from the maple syrup and brown sugar push the carb count slightly higher, but this can be managed by adjusting portion size or serving with low-carb sides.

For a lighter version:

• Use less brown sugar and rely more on the natural sweetness of the maple syrup.

• Opt for boneless, lean pork loin chops instead of bone-in.

• Substitute low-sodium soy sauce to cut back on salt.

This recipe can also be made gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These pork chops are great for meal prep or entertaining because much of the work is done ahead of time:

• Marinate in advance: The chops can marinate overnight, ready to grill when needed.

• Make the glaze ahead: The sauce can be cooked, cooled, and refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Store leftovers: Cooked pork chops can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, basting with leftover glaze to keep them moist.

They also freeze well—just slice the meat and store in a zip-top bag with any extra glaze. Reheat gently for a ready-made dinner on a busy night.

Tips for Best Results

• Use chops of even thickness to ensure consistent cooking.

• Don’t skip the resting period after grilling—it makes all the difference in juiciness.

• Baste during the final few minutes only, as the sugars in the glaze can burn if exposed to high heat too long.

• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; 145°F is ideal for juicy pork.

• Strain the glaze to create a silky, professional finish.

Conclusion

Grilled Maple Glazed Pork Chops strike the perfect balance between sweet, savory, smoky, and spicy, offering a rich flavor experience that’s perfect for any season. With a bold, easy marinade and a beautifully caramelized finish, these chops are destined to become a staple in your grilling repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or cooking a cozy fall dinner, they deliver the kind of flavor, texture, and visual appeal that make every meal feel special. Serve them with your favorite sides, pour a glass of something chilled, and enjoy a dish that turns simple ingredients into something truly unforgettable.