These grilled lemon herb pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! The zesty lemon and fresh herbs bring a bright touch that makes every bite a tasty delight.
Grilling them gives a nice smokey finish, too! I love to serve these with a side salad for a fresh and easy meal—perfect for sunny days! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and moisture during grilling. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work well too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This is essential for the marinade. If you prefer a lighter option, avocado oil is a suitable substitute. It has a high smoke point, making it great for grilling.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice gives a bright flavor. If you need a substitute, try lime juice. The zest adds extra flavor, so don’t skip it if possible. Grating just the yellow part is key!
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary enhance the dish beautifully. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used—just adjust the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a great aroma. However, garlic powder can work as a quick substitute. Use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
How Do I Grill Pork Chops Perfectly?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it every time:
- Marinade Time: Allow the pork chops to marinate for at least an hour, but longer is better. This helps tenderize the meat and infuse flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is nice and hot! This helps to create grill marks and a crust that seals in moisture.
- Cooking Temperature: Cook the chops to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Overcooking can dry them out!
- Resting Time: Don’t rush to serve! Let the chops rest for about 3-5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them juicy.
These tips will help ensure your grilled lemon herb pork chops come out flavorful and juicy every time. Happy grilling!
Grilled Lemon Herb Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, including marinating the pork chops (ideally 2 to 4 hours) and about 10 minutes to grill. Plan for at least about 2 hours and 15 minutes total if you include the marination time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended. This marinade is what adds all the delicious flavor to your pork chops.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they’re all nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the pork chops to marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can, aim for 2 to 4 hours for even deeper flavor.
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. This step is important to achieve those beautiful grill marks and keep the meat juicy.
4. Grill the Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chops on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when done, with a beautiful golden caramelization on the outside.
5. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, move the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to distribute throughout the pork, making it extra juicy and tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, serve the pork chops hot. You can garnish them with lemon wedges or additional fresh herbs if you’d like. Enjoy your flavorful, juicy grilled lemon herb pork chops!
Happy grilling!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used, but be aware that they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they don’t dry out.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a great option! It allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, making them even more flavorful. Just be sure to not exceed 24 hours to avoid a mushy texture.
What Should I Serve with Grilled Lemon Herb Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with a fresh green salad, grilled vegetables, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring not to overcook them to keep the meat juicy.