This marinade for pork chops is a game changer! It combines simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of vinegar to make them juicy and full of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Boneless chops are convenient, but bone-in chops or pork loin also work well. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using turkey chops instead!
Soy Sauce: This adds a deep umami flavor; a low-sodium version can help reduce salt intake. If you’re gluten-free, coconut aminos are a great substitution.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It gives a nice tang! You can swap it with white wine vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
Honey: Together with the soy sauce, it balances flavors. Maple syrup is a tasty alternative for those who prefer a different sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for punchy flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used—about half a teaspoon for each clove.
How Do I Properly Marinate the Pork Chops?
Marinating is vital for enhancing flavor and tenderness in your pork chops. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl until combined—feel free to taste and adjust for flavor preferences.
- Place pork chops in a resealable bag or dish, pour marinade over, and make sure they’re well coated.
- Seal or cover and let them marinate in the fridge. Aim for 4 to 6 hours for the best flavor—any longer can sometimes result in a mushy texture.
Remember, letting them sit for just one hour will still show improvement, so don’t stress if you’re short on time!
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade and mix everything together. You’ll then need at least 1 hour to marinate the pork, but for the best flavor, aim for 4 to 6 hours in the refrigerator. While grilling takes another 10-12 minutes. So, set aside a few hours to get the most delicious pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. In it, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, black pepper, thyme, paprika, and onion powder until everything is well mixed. This is the flavor booster for your pork chops, so make sure it’s combined nicely!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they are fully coated in that tasty mixture. Seal the bag or cover the dish to lock in all those flavors. Let the pork chops hang out in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. If you can wait longer, 4 to 6 hours is ideal, but don’t exceed 24 hours!
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grilling pan to medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chops on the grill and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes so they can stay juicy.
4. Serve with a Touch of Green:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top of the grilled pork chops for a pop of color and freshness. Now, dig in and enjoy those perfectly marinated grilled pork chops!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will work just fine using the same marinade and grilling method. Just be aware that they might require an extra minute or two of cooking time due to their thickness and bone. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they are fully cooked!
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider Vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, you can use white wine vinegar or rice vinegar as a substitute. Both will maintain a similar tanginess, but the flavor profile may vary slightly. You can even use lemon juice if that’s what you have available, though it will add a citrusy twist!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops for Longer Than 24 Hours?
It’s best to avoid marinating pork chops for more than 24 hours, as the acid in the marinade can start to break down the meat, making it mushy. If you need to marinate them longer, consider reducing the amount of vinegar or including it closer to the cooking time, around 1-2 hours before grilling for optimal texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover grilled pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If the pork seems dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to help retain moisture during reheating.
