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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you can only find boneless, that works too! Just keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: A good choice for marinating. If you want a different flavor, try avocado oil or even sesame oil for a hint of nuttiness.
Soy Sauce: Provides umami and saltiness. Tamari is a great gluten-free substitute, or you can use coconut aminos for a lighter flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds acidity. You can swap it for white wine vinegar or lemon juice if you like a different tang.
Honey: Balances flavors with sweetness. Maple syrup or agave syrup can be used if you want a vegan alternative.
Garlic: Fresh garlic truly elevates the dish. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could work, but fresh is always best for taste!
How Do I Ensure the Marinade Really Penetrates the Pork?
For the marinade to work its magic, you’ll want to let the pork chops soak for a decent amount of time. A minimum of 1 hour is fine, but for really flavor-packed chops, aim for 4 hours or overnight in the fridge. This will give all those delicious flavors a chance to sink in!
- After mixing the marinade, place the pork chops in a zip-top bag or a dish.
- Make sure they’re fully coated. You can even use your hands to massage it in a bit!
- Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish well to prevent spills.
Also, remember to let the marinade drip off before grilling—this helps get those beautiful grill marks and prevents flare-ups!
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade and coat the pork chops. To really pack in the flavor, you’ll want to marinate the chops for at least 1 hour, but for the best results, let them soak for 4 hours or overnight. Grill time will be around 15 minutes. So all in all, it’s around 1 hour 25 minutes if you let them marinate for an hour, or longer if you choose to marinate overnight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is nicely mixed together.
2. Coat the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and place them in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure each one is well covered. If using a zip-top bag, seal it tightly, or if using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. This step is all about ensuring the flavors get into the meat!
3. Let Them Marinate:
Pop the bag or dish into the refrigerator. It’s best to let the chops marinate for at least 1 hour, but going for 4 hours or even overnight will enhance the flavors dramatically!
4. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, fire up the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Give it a few minutes to heat up while you wait.
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. You can discard the leftover marinade. Place the pork chops on the hot grill and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want to grill until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F and have beautiful grill marks.
6. Rest and Garnish:
After grilling, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle. Just before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely touch.
Enjoy your flavorful grilled pork chops with your favorite side dishes!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine in this marinade. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops, so start checking for doneness at around 4-5 minutes per side.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork Chops?
The longer, the better! For maximum flavor, marinate the pork chops for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. However, if you’re short on time, even a minimum of 1 hour will still add great taste.
Can I Freeze the Marinated Pork Chops?
Yes, you can freeze the pork chops in the marinade! Place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge overnight before grilling.
What Should I Serve With Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilled pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. A fruit-based salsa or chutney can also elevate the flavors!
