Ingredients

• 4 thick-cut bone-in pork chops
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 cup Kansas City-style barbecue sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
4. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Season the Pork Chops

1. In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Pat the pork chops dry with a paper towel.
3. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly on all sides of the pork chops.

Step 3: Sear the Pork Chops

1. Place the pork chops on the center grill grate and sear each side for 2 minutes to lock in the juices.
2. Use tongs to flip the chops and sear the other side for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the seared pork chops to the flat cooktop griddle to finish cooking.
2. Spread butter on the griddle and cook the pork chops until they reach an internal temperature of 135°F (they will continue to cook after being removed from the grill).

Step 5: Brush with BBQ Sauce

1. Brush the pork chops generously with Kansas City-style barbecue sauce.
2. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Remove pork chops from the grill at 135°F as they will continue cooking to about 145°F.
• Use the center grill grate for a high-heat sear, then move them to the outer cooktop for even cooking.
• Let the chops rest after grilling so the juices redistribute evenly.
• Cooking over wood enhances the flavor with a subtle smokiness.

Variations

• Spicy Honey BBQ: Add 2 tbsp of honey and an extra tsp of cayenne to the BBQ sauce.
• Garlic Herb: Mix 1 tbsp chopped rosemary and thyme into the dry rub.
• Maple Bourbon: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup and splash in 2 tbsp bourbon.
• Asian-Inspired: Use hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and a dash of sesame oil instead of BBQ sauce.
• Pineapple Glazed: Mix 1/4 cup pineapple juice into the BBQ sauce for tropical sweetness.

Conclusion

Cooking Kansas City-style BBQ pork chops on the Arteflame grill delivers unmatched flavor, a perfect sear, and juicy, tender bites. The combination of high-heat searing and the flat griddle cooktop ensures the best results possible. Fire up your grill and enjoy!

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Smoky baked beans
• Coleslaw with a tangy dressing
• Buttery garlic bread
• Roasted sweet potatoes