Hawaiian-Style Grilled Pork Chops with Pineapple Glaze

This quick pineapple pork chop recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight or a backyard barbecue. Marinating the chops in a brown sugar and soy-based glaze locks in moisture and gives a wonderful balance of sweet and savory flavors.

If you’re hunting for an easy pork chop recipe, this one is a great pick. It pairs well with a variety of sides and is just as easy to scale for guests.

Why We Love This Recipe

Grilled pork chops are a staple for good reason — they are quick to cook and develop great grill flavor. The brown sugar and pineapple juices in the marinade add caramelized sweetness while the soy and garlic provide savory depth. The result is a juicy chop with a delicious glaze and caramelized pineapple to top it off.

Serve with your favorite grilled sides for a complete, easy meal.

Ingredients

• Boneless pork chops – choose chops that are similar in size for even cooking
• Olive oil – or another cooking oil to brush the grates
• Simple spices – salt, pepper, light brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger
• Soy sauce – substitute coconut aminos for a gluten-free option
• Ketchup – store-bought works well
• Pineapple slices – use canned pineapple and do not drain the juice

See the recipe card below for exact amounts and full instructions.

How to Grill Hawaiian Pork Chops

Step 1 – Make the Marinade – In a small bowl combine ½ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup ketchup, ¼ cup light brown sugar, the juice from the pineapple can (reserve the slices), 2 teaspoons minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon ground ginger, ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Stir until smooth.

Step 2 – Marinate the Pork Chops – Place 6 boneless pork chops in a resealable bag or large bowl. Pour half of the sauce over the chops and marinate at least 10 minutes; overnight is best for maximum flavor.

Step 3 – Reserve Sauce for Basting – Keep the remaining half of the marinade for basting while the chops grill.

Step 4 – Prepare the Grill – Brush the grill grates with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking and preheat to about 400°F (medium-high).

Step 5 – Grill the Pork Chops and Pineapple – Place the pork chops and pineapple slices directly on the grill. Grill 4–5 minutes per side, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F. Turn once to get nice grill marks.

Step 6 – Baste – Baste the chops and pineapple with the reserved sauce, cooking for about 1 minute after basting on each side.

Step 7 – Rest the Meat – Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes to redistribute juices.

Step 8 – Serve – Slice the chops if desired and serve topped with the grilled pineapple and chopped green onion. A squeeze of fresh lime brightens the flavors.

Recipe Tips

• Use a meat thermometer – cook pork chops to an internal temperature of 145°F for juicy, safe results.
• Marinate longer for better flavor – at least 10 minutes, ideally overnight.
• Let the meat rest – resting for 5 minutes before serving keeps the chops moist.

Variation Ideas

• Sesame oil – add a teaspoon or two to the marinade for a nutty aroma.
• Spicy version – stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for heat.
• Garlic powder – use in place of minced garlic if preferred.
• Alternative cooking methods – these chops can be baked or pan-seared instead of grilled.

Serving Suggestions

These grilled Hawaiian pork chops pair nicely with a variety of side dishes. Consider grilled vegetables, rice, or simple roasted potatoes to round out the meal.

• Grilled broccoli
• Crock pot rice
• Grilled carrots
• Grilled asparagus
• Sautéed or grilled green beans

How to Freeze

For meal prep, freeze pork chops in the marinade (excluding pineapple slices). Seal in a freezer-safe bag and thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.

How to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven. For meal prep, pack chops with rice and vegetables in airtight containers for easy lunches.

Yes. Bone-in chops work well with this marinade; just allow a little extra cooking time and check the internal temperature.

Overcooking is the most common cause. Pork chops cook quickly, so monitor them closely and use a meat thermometer to pull them at 145°F for tender results.

Marinate for at least 10 minutes; for best flavor, marinate overnight.