For the Brine: Place the salt and hot tap water in a large zip bag. Shake the bag around to dissolve the salt. Then add the apple cider and pork chops. Zip the bag closed and place in a bowl in case of leakage. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and brine the chops for at least two hours, but overnight is better.
When ready to cook, preheat the smoker to 350°F. (Use your favorite wood chips or wood pellets… I used a hickory and cherry wood blend.)
Remove the pork chops from the brine and pat dry. In a small bowl combine the lemon pepper, thyme, sage, garlic powder, and onion powder. (There’s no need to add salt if the pork chops are brined. If you did not brine add 1 teaspoon of salt.) Mix the rub seasoning and sprinkle over both sides of the pork chops.
Once the smoker reaches 350°F, place the pork chops on the smoker. Close the lid and smoke for 15 minutes. Flip the pork chops over and insert a cooking thermometer probe into the thickest part of the pork chop. Continue to smoke for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the pork chops reach 142-145°F in the middle.
Remove from the smoker and allow the pork chops to rest for five minutes before serving.
Video
Notes
Leftovers will keep well for up to 3 days stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.