These Grilled Italian Pork Chops are juicy and full of flavor! Marinated with zesty herbs, they sizzle beautifully on the grill, making your taste buds dance with delight.
Trust me, the smell of these chops cooking will have everyone wondering what’s for dinner. I love serving them with a side salad for a fresh treat! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are perfect for grilling as they stay juicy. If you prefer less fat, choose boneless chops, but watch cooking time closely as they’ll cook faster.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor. You can switch it out for avocado oil for a high smoke point and mild taste.
Herbs: Dried oregano, basil, and thyme give that Italian flair. Fresh herbs are also great if you have them on hand! Just triple the amount for extra freshness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. Use garlic powder as a substitute, but avoid using too much as it packs a punch!
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully over the chops. For a twist, try provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional for heat. If you want a milder dish, omit them or use black pepper instead.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling pork chops can be easy with a few tips to ensure they are juicy and flavorful! Here’s how to nail it:
- Marinate: Allow the pork chops to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. This helps to infuse flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat the Grill: A hot grill is crucial for achieving nice sear marks and sealing in juices. Aim for medium-high heat.
- Don’t Overcook: Watch your cooking time closely. Cooking for 4-5 minutes per side usually does the trick, but use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F internally.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the pork chops to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute for a juicy bite!
Following these steps will lead you to deliciously grilled pork chops every time!
Grilled Italian Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 4 slices ripe tomato
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes for marinating. Total grilling time is around 10-12 minutes, plus resting time, so you’re looking at about 50-60 minutes from start to finish. The wait is absolutely worth it for these juicy chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture is going to give your pork chops a wonderful Italian flavor.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Rub each pork chop generously with the marinade, covering both sides. Seal them in a bag or place on a plate, cover, and set in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for even more flavor). Can’t wait to taste it? You can skip the marinating, but try to let them sit if you can!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Turn on your grill and let it heat up to medium-high heat. This step is key to achieving those delicious grill marks and sealing in all the juices.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the marinated pork chops on the grill. Grill for about 4 to 5 minutes on one side until you see nice grill marks. Don’t be tempted to flip them too soon!
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the pork chops over and grill the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes. This should get them to that perfect internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Add Toppings:
While the pork chops are still on the grill, place a slice of fresh tomato and a slice of mozzarella cheese on each chop. Close the grill lid and let them cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese melts beautifully.
7. Make the Herb Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the chopped fresh parsley, basil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil. Mix well to create a fresh and flavorful dressing for your pork chops.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully take the pork chops off the grill and spoon the herb dressing over the melted cheese. Let the chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle, making each bite tender and flavorful!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Grilled Italian Pork Chops, topped with fresh tomato, melted mozzarella, and zesty herb dressing! They’re sure to be a hit at your next meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops, but remember that they will cook faster, so keep an eye on the grill and check for doneness around 3-4 minutes per side.
What Should I Serve With Grilled Italian Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or a side of garlic mashed potatoes. You can also serve them with crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight will enhance the flavor even more! Just be sure to refrigerate them and remove them from the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling so they can come to room temperature.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover grilled pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.