These tender, flavorful Grilled Venison Chops are one of my favorite cuts of venison—and they’re incredibly quick to prepare. They take under 10 minutes on the grill, so you’ll likely spend more time preheating than cooking. The results are well worth it: juicy, tender chops with a simple seasoning that lets the natural flavor shine.
Traeger Grilled Venison Chops
If you enjoy venison, you already know how exceptional venison chops can be. They are medallions cut from the backstrap (loin), left attached to the bone. Because they come from the backstrap, venison chops are among the most tender portions and are highly prized by hunters and cooks alike.
We recently sourced wild Axis deer from Hawaii through Maui Nui Venison. On that island, Axis deer are considered invasive, and licensed harvests supply commercial markets. If you don’t hunt yourself and don’t have a hunter in your circle, purchasing from a licensed source like this can be a great option—there can be a short wait, but it’s worth it for high-quality wild venison.
For a bright, herb-forward accompaniment, try a cilantro chimichurri—its freshness pairs beautifully with grilled venison.
75+ Easy Traeger Recipes
Recipe Shopping List
You probably have most of these items on hand. For exact measurements, see the recipe card below.
- Venison chops
- Salt & pepper
- Wild Game Rub
Get our favorite Wild Game Seasoning here!
How To Make This Recipe
Below is a simple overview of the process so you know what to expect. For exact measurements and details, use the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Preheat – Bring your pellet grill up to 400°F.
- Season – Liberally season both sides of the chops with salt, pepper, and your chosen rub.
- Grill – Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side. Venison backstrap is very tender; avoid overcooking. Aim for medium-rare.
- Rest – Let the chops rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Try our Grilled Venison Backstrap too!
Recipe FAQ
Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container or a sealed bag and refrigerate. Use within 2–3 days for best quality.
Reheat briefly on the grill or in a skillet with a little butter to avoid drying them out. A quick turn on medium heat works well.
Yes. These chops are simple and only need salt and pepper if you prefer. Use any favorite game rub or seasoning blend you like.
Try this Greek Salad on the side!
Side Dish Recipes
- Traeger Smoked Mac and Cheese
- Grilled King Crab Legs
- Smoked Hash Brown Casserole
- Smoked Baked Beans
- Grape Jelly Meatballs
- Vinegar Coleslaw
- Creamy Coleslaw
- Smoked Baked Potatoes
- Traeger Corn on the Cob
- Traeger Grilled Zucchini
- Blackstone Smashed Potatoes
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Traeger Grilled Venison Chops
Tender Axis deer chops are seasoned simply and finished on a pellet grill for a clean, wood-fired flavor. They’re quick to cook and make a satisfying main when dressed with a light sauce or herb garnish.
10 minutes
15 minutes
25 minutes
Ingredients
- 6 venison chops
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Wild Game Rub
Instructions
- Preheat your pellet grill to 400°F.
- Season both sides of the chops with salt, pepper, and the Wild Game rub.
- Grill for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare.
Recommended Products
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6
Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 128Total Fat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 67mgSodium: 401mgCarbohydrates: 0gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 26g
Nutrition data provided here is only an estimate.
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