These juicy grilled pork chops are a fantastic choice for a quick, tasty meal! Marinated to perfection, they’re packed with flavor and easy to cook on the grill.
I love how they make my kitchen smell amazing while they’re cooking! Pair them with a fresh salad for a great dinner that even kids enjoy. Simple and oh-so-good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are juicier and more flavorful than boneless cuts. If you can only find boneless, just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This is great for the marinade, adding moisture and richness. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil or vegetable oil works well too.
Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, savory kick. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This brings a nice tang. You could replace it with balsamic vinegar for a sweeter taste.
Brown Sugar: It caramelizes on the grill, giving the chops a lovely glaze. You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for a natural sweetness.
What’s the Best Way to Marinade Pork Chops?
Marinating pork chops is crucial for enhancing their flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Whisk together all marinade ingredients until the sugar dissolves, ensuring a well-mixed flavor.
- Use a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, allowing the marinade to fully coat the pork chops.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; letting it sit for 2-4 hours makes a huge difference in flavor.
Always remember to discard leftover marinade to avoid any contamination from raw meat. Happy grilling!
Juicy Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard or dried thyme for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes for marinating, plus another 10-15 minutes for grilling and resting. So, you can expect a total time of about 45 minutes to 1 hour for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and any optional spices until the brown sugar dissolves. This mixture will be your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinade the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, let them marinate for 2-4 hours. This will maximize the flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). Remember to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking!
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade. Place the pork chops on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when grill marks appear and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Be careful not to overcook them to maintain their juiciness!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps to redistribute the juices inside the meat. Serve hot, and feel free to garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for an added touch of flavor!
Enjoy your perfectly juicy and flavorful grilled pork chops! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so monitor their internal temperature closely to avoid drying them out.
How Can I Make These Pork Chops Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade. Start with a pinch and adjust based on your spice tolerance!
Can I Prepare the Meat a Day in Advance?
Definitely! Marinating the pork chops the day before can enhance their flavor even more. Just make sure to store them in the fridge and use them within 24 hours for the best quality.
What Should I Serve with Grilled Pork Chops?
These chops pair wonderfully with sides like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a fruity salsa for extra color and taste!