You’ll love making these fall-off-the-bone pork ribs at home with this easy copycat recipe.
With a blend of smoked paprika, dark brown sugar, and kosher salt, these ribs pack a flavor punch.
Before cooking, don’t forget to use liquid smoke for that authentic BBQ taste you crave.
I find using a pellet grill really enhances the smoky flavor.
Patience is key; slow cook these ribs to perfection, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with incredible tenderness!
How to Make Chili’s Baby Back Ribs
Ingredients
- 2 racks Baby Back Ribs
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Salt
- 1 Tbsp Paprika
- 1 Tbsp Black Pepper
- 1 Tbsp Onion Powder
- 1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 1 can Cola (12 oz.)
- Barbecue Sauce (your choice)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
Step 2:
Mix together the brown sugar, salt, paprika, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.
Step 3:
Rub 3 tablespoons of the spice blend all over the ribs, keeping the remaining blend for later.
Step 4:
Place the ribs on a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil and pour the cola over them.
Step 5:
Fold the edges of the foil together and seal them tightly to create a packet.
Step 6:
Place the packet on a baking sheet and bake for 2.5-3 hours until the meat is tender.
Step 7:
Remove the ribs from the foil and brush with barbecue sauce.
Step 8:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the ribs for 5-7 minutes on each side until slightly charred.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Removing the Membrane
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs before seasoning ensures they are tender and flavorful.
Using Fresh Ingredients
Always use fresh spices and high-quality barbecue sauce for the best taste.
Letting the Ribs Rest
Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your desired level of spiciness.
Keeping an Eye on the Grill
Keep a close watch while grilling to prevent the ribs from burning. Use indirect heat if necessary.
What to Serve with Chili’s Baby Back Ribs
Classic Coleslaw
You can’t go wrong with this dish!
Its crunchy texture and tangy flavor make it a perfect match for the tender, smoky ribs.
Creamy Potato Salad
This side dish adds richness to your meal.
The herbs in the potato salad balance out the flavors of the ribs beautifully.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn introduces a smoky sweetness that pairs well with the ribs.
The slight char on the corn complements the barbecue seasoning.
Southern-Style Biscuits
Light and flaky biscuits are a comforting addition.
Their tenderness pairs nicely with the robust flavors of the ribs.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic add a homey touch.
They make for an excellent, hearty side dish.
Spicy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Want something different?
Try roasted Brussels sprouts with a kick of spice.
They offer a unique, flavorful contrast to the ribs.
Avocado and Mango Salad
This fresh and fruity salad can be a refreshing option.
Avocado brings creaminess, while mango adds a sweet tang that surprises.
Smoky Grilled Pineapple
Grill some pineapple slices for an unexpected treat!
The smoky and sweet flavors bring a tropical note that goes well with barbecue.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus provides a savory crunch.
The salty bacon complements the tenderness of the asparagus, pairing well with the delicious ribs.
Enjoy your meal!
Variations and Substitutions
You can experiment with different spices in your rub to create unique flavors!
Instead of paprika, try using smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier taste.
Replacing cayenne pepper with chipotle powder can add a nice kick.
Sweetness Variations
For a sweeter rub, add more brown sugar or try using honey powder.
You can also drizzle honey directly over the ribs before wrapping them in foil.
If you prefer a natural sweetness, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar.
Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a smoker, you can still make delicious ribs in the oven.
Adjust the temperature to 275°F and bake them wrapped in foil for 2.5 to 3 hours.
For added smokiness, use a bit of liquid smoke mixed in the sauce.
Sauce Alternatives
Try experimenting with different types of barbecue sauces.
Using a tangy Carolina-style sauce can provide a nice contrast to the sweet rub.
You could also go for a spicier sauce by adding more hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
Meat Choices
You can use St. Louis-style ribs instead of baby back ribs for a meatier bite.
Beef ribs can also work well but will require a longer cooking time.
Pork spare ribs are another great option and can be cooked similarly to baby back ribs.
Diet-Friendly Substitutions
For a low-sodium option, reduce the amount of salt or use a salt substitute.
Switch out the sugar with a low-carb sweetener like Stevia for a keto-friendly version.
You can also make a gluten-free rub by ensuring all spices and sauces are gluten-free.
Experiment and enjoy customizing your ribs to suit your taste!
How to Store Leftover Chili’s Baby Back Ribs
Cool the Ribs Properly
Allow the ribs to cool to room temperature before storing.
This helps prevent any condensation which can make the ribs soggy.
Wrap the Ribs Securely
Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil to maintain their moisture and flavor.
Alternatively, you can place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.
Refrigerate or Freeze
For short-term storage, place the wrapped ribs in the refrigerator.
They can stay good for up to three days in the fridge.
If you need to store the ribs for a longer period, freeze them.
Frozen ribs can last up to three months while maintaining their taste and texture.
Label and Date
Always label and date the packaging.
This way, you’ll know exactly how long you’ve stored the ribs.
Proper labeling ensures you consume them before they lose their quality or go bad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Ribs
Cooking the ribs for too long can make them dry and tough.
You want to slow-cook them until they’re tender and juicy, not falling apart.
Keeping an eye on the cooking time ensures they come out perfect every time.
Neglecting the Marination Process
Skipping the marination leaves the ribs lacking flavor.
It’s essential to let the ribs marinate for at least a few hours or overnight.
This allows the spices and sauce to seep into the meat, enhancing the taste.
Using the Wrong Type of Sauce
Not all barbecue sauces are created equal.
Using a sauce that’s too sweet or spicy can throw off the balance.
Finding the right sauce, preferably a classic BBQ one, replicates that Chili’s signature taste.
Chili's Baby Back Ribs Recipe
- 2 racks Baby Back Ribs
- 1 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Salt
- 1 Tbsp Paprika
- 1 Tbsp Black Pepper
- 1 Tbsp Onion Powder
- 1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 1 can Cola 12 oz.
- Barbecue Sauce your choice
- Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
- Mix together the brown sugar, salt, paprika, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.
- Rub 3 tablespoons of the spice blend all over the ribs, keeping the remaining blend for later.
- Place the ribs on a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil and pour the cola over them.
- Fold the edges of the foil together and seal them tightly to create a packet.
- Place the packet on a baking sheet and bake for 2.5-3 hours until the meat is tender.
- Remove the ribs from the foil and brush with barbecue sauce.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the ribs for 5-7 minutes on each side until slightly charred.
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