Grilled Bone-in Pork Chops with Cherry Sauce

Grilling season is my favorite time of year, and nothing feels more satisfying than a perfectly cooked pork chop kissed by flames and topped with a luscious cherry sauce.

This recipe was born out of a summer evening when I had a handful of ripe cherries and a hot grill—turns out, it’s a match made in heaven.

Juicy pork, bold grill marks, and that sweet-tart cherry sauce spooned over top? It’s elegant enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

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Recipe Highlights

Grilled Pork Chops with Cherry Sauce is a flavorful and approachable summer dinner that delivers major impact with minimal effort.

The grill adds that smoky char we love, while the fresh cherry sauce bursts with sweet, tangy, and slightly savory flavors.

It’s a juicy, beautiful plate that looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal—perfect for al fresco dining or casual cookouts.

• Juicy, seared pork chops grilled to perfection
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• Fresh cherry sauce with a balance of sweet and tangy
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• Just 30 minutes start to finish
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• Grill-friendly and great for entertaining
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• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free

Ingredient Notes

• Bone-in Pork Chops: Thick-cut chops are ideal for grilling. The bone adds flavor and helps retain moisture during the cooking process.
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• Fresh Cherries: Sweet cherries create a juicy, rich sauce with vibrant color and seasonal flavor. Use pitted cherries (fresh or frozen and thawed).
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• Shallot: Adds mild, sweet onion flavor to the sauce without overpowering the cherries.
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• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds acidity and depth to balance the sweetness of the cherries.
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• Honey: Provides natural sweetness and helps thicken the sauce slightly.
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• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the shallots and to brush the pork before grilling for a crisp sear.
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• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning enhances the natural flavors of both pork and cherries.

Preparation of Bone-in Pork Chops

To create the perfect grilled bone-in pork chops, start by marinating the meat in a mixture of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

This simple yet effective marinade enhances the natural flavors of the pork, ensuring each bite is juicy and savory.

Let the pork chops sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

The bone-in cut not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meat moist during grilling.

Creating the Cherry Sauce

The cherry sauce is a delightful addition that balances the savory notes of the pork. Begin by sautéing minced shallots in a saucepan until they become translucent.

This step adds depth to the sauce, making it aromatic and inviting.

Next, incorporate pitted and halved fresh cherries, balsamic vinegar, and honey into the pan.

Cook the mixture over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the cherries to soften and the sauce to thicken slightly.

The combination of sweet and tangy flavors will elevate the dish.

Grilling the Pork Chops

Once the pork chops have marinated, it’s time to grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough to create those beautiful grill marks.

Grill the pork chops for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side. The goal is to achieve an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which guarantees the meat remains juicy and tender.

The grilling process not only cooks the pork but also adds a smoky flavor that complements the cherry sauce.

How to Make My Grilled Pork Chops with Cherry Sauce

1. Prep the Pork:
   
   Pat pork chops dry and brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
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2. Make the Cherry Sauce
   
   In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté minced shallot until softened (about 2 minutes). Add pitted cherries, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries begin to break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
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3. Grill the Pork Chops
   
   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill pork chops for 4–5 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Let rest for 5 minutes after removing from the grill.
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4. Serve
   
   Spoon the warm cherry sauce over each pork chop and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Plating and Presentation

After grilling, it’s essential to plate the pork chops beautifully. Place each chop on a rustic wooden table for a charming presentation.

Spoon the vibrant cherry sauce generously over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides.

For an added touch, garnish with fresh thyme. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of herbal freshness that ties the dish together.

Serve alongside a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled asparagus or green beans
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• Garlic mashed potatoes or herbed couscous
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• A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
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• A glass of Pinot Noir or dry rosé

Nutritional Information

This dish serves four and is a great option for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Each serving contains approximately 420 calories, with 18 grams of fat and 28 grams of protein, making it a satisfying choice.

The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is sure to impress. The juicy pork, sweet cherry sauce, and fresh thyme create a delightful experience for the palate, making it a standout meal for any occasion.

Cooking Tips and Variations

For those looking to experiment, consider adding spices such as garlic powder or smoked paprika to the marinade for an extra kick.

Alternatively, try using different fruits for the sauce, such as peaches or apricots, to create unique flavor profiles.

Pair this dish with a light salad or a refreshing beverage to complement the rich flavors of the pork and cherry sauce.

Enjoy the process of cooking and the delightful results that follow!

Tips for the Best Grilled Pork Chops with Cherry Sauce

Use bone-in pork chops at least 1 inch thick for juicier results. Don’t skip the resting time after grilling—it lets the juices redistribute.

When making the cherry sauce, adjust the sweetness or acidity to your taste by adding more honey or vinegar.

For extra flavor, you can add a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary to the cherry sauce while it simmers.

Storage and Warming of Leftovers

Store leftover pork chops and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm pork chops in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes or gently reheat in a skillet over low heat.

Warm the cherry sauce in a small saucepan or microwave until just heated through.