This marinade takes your pork chops to a whole new level! With a mix of tasty ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness, it makes for juicy and flavorful bites.
Honestly, it’s so fun to watch my friends rave about the chops when I use this marinade. I often whip it up ahead of time and let the pork soak overnight—makes dinner a breeze! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and moisture. If you prefer, boneless chops work, but keep an eye on cooking time as they tend to cook faster.
Soy Sauce: This is key for saltiness and umami. If you need a low-sodium option, try low-sodium soy sauce. For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos.
Olive Oil: Excellent for marinating and grilling. You can substitute with vegetable oil or avocado oil for a different flavor and higher smoke point.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tanginess. White wine vinegar or rice vinegar are good swaps if you don’t have cider vinegar on hand.
Honey: It gives sweetness and helps with browning. Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey if you’re vegan or looking for alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder is an option—just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops are Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling pork chops can sometimes be tricky, but with the right approach, you can achieve juicy results. Start by allowing your pork chops to marinate for at least 1 hour; longer is better for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high—this is crucial for proper searing.
- When grilling, cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (145°F).
- Let your chops rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring they’re juicy and tender.
These simple steps can make a big difference in your grilling experience! Enjoy great flavors and tender meat every time.
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Pork:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and at least 1 hour for marinating, but you can let it sit for up to 8 hours for a richer flavor. After marinating, grilling will take about 10 to 15 minutes. In total, plan for at least 1 hour and 10 minutes, up to 8 hours for marinating, if desired.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, paprika, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and salt. Using a whisk, mix everything together until it’s well blended and smooth. This will be the flavorful marinade for your pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Next, take your pork chops and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the top, making sure that each chop is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and put it in the refrigerator. Leave them to marinate for at least 1 hour—if you have time, letting them soak for up to 8 hours will give you an even better taste!
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or a stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade and discard the remaining liquid. Place the chops on the grill and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), so make sure to check with a meat thermometer.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the pork chops are cooked, take them off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices stay inside so they’re tender and juicy. Finally, garnish them with some chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious grilled pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly since boneless pork chops are typically thinner. Grill them for about 4 to 6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor in the marinade. Just use the same amount (2 tablespoons) for best results.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
For optimal flavor, marinate the pork chops for at least 1 hour, but you can go up to 8 hours. Be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as the meat can become too tender and mushy.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them on low power, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
