Grill Thin Pork Chops on Gas Grill Without Drying Them

Easy Function Jun 12, 2025
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Grill Thin Pork Chops on Gas Grill Without Drying Them
Table of Contents
  1. Why Thin Pork Chops Need Extra Attention
  2. Step 1: Choose Bone-In or Boneless
  3. Step 2: Pat Dry and Season Simply
  4. Step 3: Preheat Your Gas Grill Correctly
  5. Step 4: Quick Grill Time – No Lid Needed
  6. Step 5: Check the Internal Temperature
  7. Step 6: Serve It Up Right
  8. Final Thoughts

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. This site is not intended to provide financial advice and is for entertainment only. 

Grilling thin pork chops on a gas grill can be tricky. 


They cook fast — sometimes too fast—which means it’s easy to overcook them and end up with dry, chewy meat. 


But with the right steps, you can keep them juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled every time.


This guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from prepping your pork chops to flipping them at the right time.





Why Thin Pork Chops Need Extra Attention


Thin pork chops (about ½ inch thick or less) have less fat and less room for error. 


Unlike thicker cuts that can be more forgiving, thin chops can go from perfect to overcooked in under a minute. 


That’s why timing, temperature, and prep matter so much.


Step 1: Choose Bone-In or Boneless


Both types work, but bone-in chops often hold moisture better. 


If you're using boneless, be extra careful not to overcook them.


Step 2: Pat Dry and Season Simply


Before grilling, pat your pork chops dry with paper towels. 


This helps them sear better. 


Then season both sides with:


  • Salt


  • Black pepper


  • Garlic powder or paprika (optional)


Let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes so they cook evenly.


Step 3: Preheat Your Gas Grill Correctly


Turn your grill on high for 10–15 minutes. 


You want the grill grates hot so the chops sear fast, locking in juices. 


Aim for around 450°F–500°F.


👉 Tip: A clean grill helps prevent sticking. Use a safe, bristle-free grill scraper like the Easy Function Grill Scraper to clean your grill before cooking.



Step 4: Quick Grill Time – No Lid Needed


Place the chops directly over the flame. 


Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side.


Don’t close the lid. 


Thin chops cook fast, and using the lid can trap too much heat and dry them out.


Flip once only. 


Use tongs — not a fork — to avoid losing juices.


Step 5: Check the Internal Temperature


Use a meat thermometer to check the center of the pork chop. 


You're aiming for 145°F. 


That’s the USDA-recommended safe temp for pork.


Once they hit 145°F, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 3–5 minutes. 


This lets the juices settle so they stay in the meat.


Step 6: Serve It Up Right


Thin pork chops go great with:


  • Grilled veggies


  • Baked potatoes


  • Fresh salads


  • Corn on the cob


You can also brush on a light glaze like BBQ sauce or honey mustard during the last minute of grilling if you want extra flavor.


Pfft… Need grilling ideas that are both fast and flavorful? Our guide to 50 tasty things to cook on the grill has you covered.


Final Thoughts


Grilling thin pork chops on a gas grill is all about speed, heat, and timing. 


Keep your grill hot, don’t overcook, and let the meat rest after grilling. 


Use a clean grate and keep your flips to one per chop.


Looking for tools that make grilling easier? 


Click the image below to check out our Easy Function grilling accessories — including scrapers and magnetic meat temperature guides — to make your cookouts smoother than ever.


Table of Contents
  1. Why Thin Pork Chops Need Extra Attention
  2. Step 1: Choose Bone-In or Boneless
  3. Step 2: Pat Dry and Season Simply
  4. Step 3: Preheat Your Gas Grill Correctly
  5. Step 4: Quick Grill Time – No Lid Needed
  6. Step 5: Check the Internal Temperature
  7. Step 6: Serve It Up Right
  8. Final Thoughts

Disclosure:  Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. This site is not intended to provide financial advice and is for entertainment only.