This pork chop marinade is super tasty and easy to whip up! With simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and honey, it brings out the yummy flavors of the meat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops. Bone-in chops tend to retain moisture better and have a richer flavor. If you’re looking for something leaner, go for boneless chops.
Soy Sauce: This adds a great umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, try tamari instead. Coconut aminos is another good alternative with slightly less sodium.
Olive Oil: This helps to tenderize the meat while adding richness. You could swap it for another type of oil, like avocado oil or canola oil, for a milder flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It’s important for balancing flavors. White vinegar or lemon juice can work in a pinch, though they will change the final taste slightly.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic really elevates the marinade. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder—about 1/2 teaspoon per clove.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can replace it with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but there are a few key tips that help keep them juicy. First, letting them marinate longer (up to overnight) infuses flavor and moisture.
- Set your grill to medium-high heat to ensure even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the cook time. For 1-inch thick chops, 4-5 minutes per side is usually perfect.
- Using a meat thermometer is the best way to avoid overcooking. Pull the chops off the grill at 145°F (63°C) and let them rest for a few minutes. This lets the juices redistribute!
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade, plus at least 1 hour for marination (or overnight for best flavor). Cooking the pork chops takes about 10-12 minutes on the grill. So, you can expect a total of about 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on how long you let them marinate.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, black pepper, onion powder, and dried thyme until everything is well mixed. This delicious blend will be the key to tender and tasty pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and place them in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly to keep all those flavors in. Pop it in the refrigerator 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 stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade and discard the marinade (no waste!). Grill the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This will ensure they are juicy and perfectly cooked!
4. Finish and Serve:
After grilling, transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Before serving, garnish your deliciously marinated pork chops with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar?
Absolutely! If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or even balsamic vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly based on the vinegar you choose.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
The pork chops can be marinated for as little as 1 hour, but for the best flavor, marinate them overnight. If you marinate them for more than 24 hours, they might become too salty or mushy due to the soy sauce, so it’s best to stick within that timeframe.
What Should I Do if I Have Leftover Marinade?
It’s best to discard the leftover marinade after removing the pork chops, as it has been in contact with raw meat. If you want to use it as a sauce, you can simmer it in a saucepan for about 5-10 minutes to kill any bacteria, then serve it over the cooked pork chops!
Can I Cook the Pork Chops in the Oven Instead of Grilling?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated pork chops on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This method will keep them juicy and flavorful!
