This homemade pork chop seasoning comes together in just a few minutes, is much cheaper than store-bought rub, and all the ingredients you probably already have in your pantry anyway!
Naturally, this tasty seasoning pairs perfectly with our smoked pork chops recipe.

As with all our rub recipes, we encourage you to get creative and feel free to tweak or modify any ingredients. For example, this pork chop seasoning calls for a pinch of cayenne, but if that's too spicy for you, then just leave it out!
You can put this rub on all kinds of pork, from pork chops to smoked pork tenderloin.
How To Make The Best Pork Chop Seasoning
This homemade pork chop seasoning calls for just nine ingredients, and chances are, you probably already have them all on hand.

The Ingredients
- Smoked paprika (2 tsp). A smoky, sweet, and fruity flavor that enhances the taste of the pork chops.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp). A savory, earthy, and aromatic element that belongs in every BBQ rub.
- Onion powder (1 tsp). A concentrated, sweet onion flavor to enhance the savory and umami flavors in the pork.
- Brown sugar (2 tbsp). A molasses-like sweetness to balance the other savory and spicy elements that also creates a caramelized crust on the cooked chops.
- Lime zest (zest of 1/2 a lime). A bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the pork.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp). A warm, sweet-spicy flavor that's our "secret" ingredient here.
- Cayenne pepper (1/2 tsp). For a touch of heat.
- Salt & pepper (1/2 tsp each). Every rub needs salt & pepper.
The Directions

1. Combine all nine ingredients in a large bowl, stirring until well mixed together.
2. Apply liberally all over your pork chops!

Pork Chop Seasoning
This pork chop seasoning is deliberately simple, with a few unique twists that I don't think you'll find anywhere else.
The addition of brown sugar and cinnamon work wonders in a savory dish like pork chops. The brown sugar provides a sweetness to counterbalance the smokiness of the pork, and it also adds a beautiful crust when you sear the pork off on the grill.
The cinnamon then adds a nice warm and slightly-spicy touch to the rub and overall dish.
How To Season Pork Chops

With your rub all ready to go, here's how to put the entire dish together.
1. Season. Start by patting your pork chops with a paper towel to remove any moisture. Apply a small amount of olive oil to both sides of the chop to act as a binder for the rub. Then, liberally season the chops on all sides of the rub, making sure to hit the sides as well. Allow your chops to rest with the rub adhered for at least 10 minutes.
2. Smoke. You can definitely grill your pork chops, but my preferred method is to toss them low-and-slow on my smoker. This allows the smoky flavor to penetrate the pork and makes for a juicy, tender pork.
3. Sear. Smoked pork is amazing, but because you're cooking at such a low temperature, you're not going to have much of a crust developed. That's why I recommend ending your cook by searing the chops on both side, either on a gas grill over high heat, or with a sear gun.
Storage Tips
- Store rub in a plastic BBQ shaker for up to a month.
The Best Pork Chop Seasoning

Ingredients
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 lime zest
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Combine all nine ingredients in a large bowl, stirring until well mixed together.
- Apply liberally all over your favorite pork!