This marinade makes pork chops juicy and super tasty! With ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, and honey, it’s simple to whip up and really adds a kick to your meal.
I love using this marinade because it takes just minutes to mix and makes my pork chops the star of the show! Plus, who can resist a juicy chop? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend using bone-in chops for more flavor, but boneless also works well. If you have a different cut, like pork loin or tenderloin, try those too! Just adjust cooking times if they’re thinner.
Soy Sauce: It’s key for umami flavor. If you’re looking for a lower sodium option, try low-sodium soy sauce. For gluten-free needs, coconut aminos or tamari are great substitutes.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both add sweetness. If you’re vegan, opt for maple syrup or agave nectar. Experimenting with different sweeteners can give the marinade a fun twist!
Olive Oil: This adds richness. Canola or avocado oil are good alternatives and have high smoke points, perfect for grilling.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. For alternatives, white vinegar or lemon juice work well! You might even try lime juice for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy on the Grill?
To keep your pork chops juicy, follow these tips:
- Marinating Time: Marinate for at least an hour, but longer is better (up to 4 hours). Just don’t exceed 8 hours to avoid mushiness.
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the pork chops. This helps to sear the outside quickly, locking in moisture.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops. They’ll continue cooking after grilling, so take them off when they’re almost at temperature.
- Resting Time: Let the pork chops rest for at least 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each bite moist.
Following these steps will ensure your grilled pork chops are delicious and juicy every time!
Easy Grilled Pork Chop Marinade for Juicy Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4-6 bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Orange slices (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires approximately 15 minutes to prepare plus at least 1 hour of marinating time. Feel free to marinate for up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor. Cooking on the grill will take another 10-12 minutes. In total, you should plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes (most of which is just waiting for that delicious marinade to work its magic!).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), smoked paprika, black pepper, and cumin until everything is well combined. This marinade is what makes the pork chops flavorful and juicy!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Next, place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour, but the more, the better—aim for 2-4 hours for the best flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by heating it to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in oil to help prevent sticking. We want those gorgeous grill marks!
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
When the grill is ready, take the pork chops out of the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Place them on the hot grill. Cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on their thickness. The chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the grilled pork chops to a platter and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute in the meat, ensuring it stays moist. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and if you like, serve alongside fresh orange slices for a zesty addition.
6. Enjoy!
These juicy, flavorful grilled pork chops are perfect with sides like grilled veggies, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. Dig in and savor every bite!
This marinade really enhances the pork with sweet, savory, and smoky flavors while keeping it tender and juicy on the grill. Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Marinade?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with various cuts like pork tenderloin or shoulder chops. Just remember that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the cut, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Is It Necessary to Marinate the Pork Chops?
While marinating is highly recommended for maximum flavor and tenderness, if you’re short on time, you can grill them immediately after seasoning. Just keep in mind that they may not be as flavorful as marinated ones!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Pork Chops?
Store any leftover grilled pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the microwave or on the grill to maintain their juicy texture. Avoid overcooking during reheating!
Can I Make This Marinade Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes, you can! Substitute the pork with tofu, tempeh, or portobello mushrooms, and use maple syrup or agave in place of honey. Veggies can absorb the flavors well, and you’ll still create a tasty dish!
