This marinade is the secret to mouthwatering pork chops. It’s packed with flavors from garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness. It makes the meat juicy and tender!
I always let my chops soak for at least an hour, but if I’m really hungry, 30 minutes works too. Who can resist that yummy smell wafting from the grill? 😋
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this marinade! I often make a double batch so I can have some ready for leftovers. Trust me, it’s a game changer for dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great as they stay juicy during grilling. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops or even pork tenderloin, but adjust the cooking time as they usually cook faster.
Soy Sauce: This brings saltiness and umami to the marinade. If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is a good alternative. Tamari is also an excellent gluten-free option.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich flavor, but you could use any neutral oil such as canola or avocado oil if you want something lighter.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of honey. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or lemon juice work too!
Honey: It helps caramelize the chops for a nice finish. You can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar if you need a vegan option.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Tender and Flavorful?
Marinade time is key for flavor absorption! Aim for at least 2 hours, but leaving them overnight really enhances the taste and tenderness.
- Make sure to coat the pork chops well in the marinade.
- Use a zip-top bag for even marinating; squeeze out excess air for better coverage.
- Before grilling, let the chops sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for more even cooking.
Also, always let your pork chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps retain juices, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful!
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
For The Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep time and at least 2 hours for marinating. You can marinate the pork chops overnight for even better flavor. Cooking on the grill takes around 10 minutes, so overall, you’ll be enjoying delicious marinated pork chops in just a bit over 2 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Mix it well until everything is combined and smooth.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are well coated. If using a zip-top bag, seal it tightly, or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Let the pork chops marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor!
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade—it’s time for grilling! Place the pork chops on the grill and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have those beautiful grill marks.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the pork chops are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy your mouth-watering marinated pork chops!
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar in This Marinade?
Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar gives a nice flavor, you can use other types such as red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar. Just keep in mind that each type of vinegar has a distinct taste, which may slightly alter the final flavor profile of your marinade.
Can I Substitute Honey with Another Sweetener?
Yes, you can swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. If you prefer a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Just taste the marinade to adjust to your sweetness preference!
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
The pork chops can be marinated for a minimum of 2 hours, but for the best flavor, it’s ideal to marinate them overnight. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can enhance the flavor, but the longer, the better!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover grilled pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Just wrap each chop tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag where they can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the oven or microwave.
