This marinade is the secret to juicy, flavorful pork chops. With simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and herbs, it packs a big punch of taste!
I can’t help but marinate these overnight for the best flavor. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up—you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Let’s get grilling! 🍖
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I like bone-in pork chops for more flavor and moisture. If you prefer less fat, boneless chops work fine too, but adjust cooking time slightly.
Soy Sauce: This adds depth and saltiness. For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute.
Olive Oil: It brings richness to the marinade. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil or any neutral oil can be a good choice.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It adds acidity. If you don’t have it, feel free to use red wine vinegar or lemon juice instead.
Brown Sugar: This helps to caramelize the outside. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup if you’re looking for a healthier touch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong flavor, but you can use garlic powder (1 teaspoon) if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do You Make Sure Your Pork Chops Are Full of Flavor?
The marinade is key to getting those pork chops tasty. Make sure you mix all the ingredients well so that flavors blend nicely. Here’s a best practice:
- Use a resealable bag or shallow dish for marinating—this allows the marinade to coat the meat evenly.
- It’s best to let the chops sit in the marinade for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for enhancing flavor.
- When cooking, let the excess marinade drip off to avoid flare-ups on the grill or extra sogginess in the skillet.
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade and coat the pork chops. You’ll need at least 2 hours to marinate them in the fridge, but for the best flavor, let them sit overnight. Cooking takes about 10-12 minutes, so set aside around 2 hours and 30 minutes in total for marinating and cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk to mix all the ingredients together until they are well blended into a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Carefully pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are fully coated. If using a bag, seal it tightly, or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, for maximum flavor absorption.
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or a skillet to medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the marinade and let the excess drip off, discarding the leftover marinade. Grill or sear the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Cook until they have nice grill marks and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the pork chops are cooked, transfer them to a plate and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps to keep them juicy. Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious pork chops warm!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops, but reduce the cooking time slightly to about 3-4 minutes per side, as they cook faster. Just be sure to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for a minimum of 2 hours, but for best results, let them soak in the marinade overnight. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will impart some flavor!
Can I Freeze the Marinade and Pork Chops?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated pork chops! Just place the pork chops in a freezer bag with the marinade. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight when ready to cook, and proceed with grilling them as usual.
What Should I Serve with the Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. For a complete meal, consider serving a grain like quinoa or rice to complement the flavors!
