This pork chop marinade is a winner! It’s made with yummy ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of honey for sweetness. It’s super easy to whip up and really brings out the flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for flavor and juiciness, but you can use boneless chops if that’s what you have. Just remember they’ll cook a bit faster!
Olive Oil: A must for richness, but feel free to swap it with canola oil or avocado oil for something lighter. My personal favorite is extra virgin olive oil for its flavor.
Soy Sauce: Adds umami and depth. If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, there are many brands available. You can even use tamari for a gluten-free choice!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This brings tanginess to the marinade. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice work well too. They add a bright flavor to your dish.
Honey: It balances the salty soy and vinegar nicely. If you’re avoiding sugar, try maple syrup or agave syrup instead.
Herbs: Oregano and thyme are fantastic here, but feel free to try fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Fresh herbs can be much more aromatic, which I really enjoy!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it every time! The key is to marinate and judge the cooking time right.
- Marinate the pork chops for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill or skillet. A good sear helps lock in moisture.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temp of 145°F (63°C).
- Don’t skip the resting time! Letting the chops sit for 5 minutes after cooking is crucial. It allows juices to spread evenly.
Happy cooking! Enjoy your flavorful pork chops!
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation, plus at least 1 hour of marinating time—preferably overnight for more flavor. After marinating, grilling takes about 10 minutes, so overall, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 25 minutes, including some resting time for the pork chops.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined and the honey is dissolved.
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 pork chops, making sure they are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and put it in the fridge. Let the chops marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best for maximum flavor!
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the chops on the grill or in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making your chops juicier. Before serving, sprinkle them with chopped fresh parsley for a nice finish. Enjoy your delicious and flavorful grilled pork chops!
## FAQ
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just keep in mind that they might cook a little faster, so start checking for doneness at around 3-4 minutes per side to ensure they don’t dry out.
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
If you’re out of apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or even balsamic vinegar. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile, but they’ll still keep your marinade tangy and delicious!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops for Longer?
Yes! While 1 hour is enough for flavor, you can marinate them for up to 24 hours. Just be cautious not to go beyond that, as the enzymes in the vinegar can start to break down the meat and make it 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. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying them out. You can also slice them and add them to salads or sandwiches for a quick meal!
