This easy grilled pork chop marinade is a winner! With simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of vinegar, it brings delicious flavor without fuss.
Your grill will thank you when these juicy chops come off smelling amazing! I love making extra so that everyone can snag a bite. Trust me, juicy and tasty just got easier! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use bone-in or boneless pork chops, depending on your preference. Bone-in chops tend to be juicier, while boneless cooks a bit faster. If you’re looking for a leaner option, pork tenderloin works great too.
Soy Sauce: This is the heart of the marinade! If you need a gluten-free option, there are gluten-free soy sauce alternatives like tamari or coconut aminos.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a nice kick to the marinade. If you’re really short on time, garlic powder can be used instead, but fresh garlic will give you the best flavor.
Sweetener: Brown sugar adds depth, but honey or maple syrup can be wonderful substitutes. Feel free to adjust the sweetness according to your taste!
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is my favorite for its fruity flavor, but white vinegar or even rice vinegar works well too. Each vinegar brings its own unique twist to the marinade!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Pork Chops?
Getting flavor into your pork chops starts with marinating them properly. Here’s how:
- Whisk together your marinade ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Use a resealable bag or a shallow dish to help coats the pork chops well.
- Let them soak for at least 30 minutes—if you have up to 4 hours, it’s even better! Just don’t exceed 12 hours to keep the meat tender.
- Grill them at medium-high heat to get a nice sear and keep the juices in!
Letting the pork rest after grilling is key. This helps keep them juicy and flavorful when you slice into them!
Easy Grilled Pork Chop Marinade Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes for a smoky or spicy kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious marinade only takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. For the best flavor, aim to let it marinate for 2 to 4 hours. Grill the chops for about 10 minutes, resulting in a delightful meal ready to serve in about 45 minutes to 1 hour total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, brown sugar, oregano, black pepper, and optional smoked paprika or chili flakes until everything is well mixed. This will be the flavorful marinade for your pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Pop it in the fridge and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinating for 2 to 4 hours is ideal. Just remember not to go over 12 hours to keep the texture nice!
3. Get Grilling:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the marinade (it’s best not to reuse it!). Grill the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip them and grill for another 4-5 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Let Them Rest:
Take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This step is super important as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chops juicy and flavorful!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your delicious grilled pork chops alongside your favorite side dishes, and enjoy every juicy bite! They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or grilled veggies!
FAQ
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork?
Absolutely! While this marinade is great for pork chops, you can use it for pork tenderloin, pork loin, or even boneless pork ribs. Adjust grilling times based on the thickness of the meat.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork Chops?
For optimal flavor, aim to marinate the pork chops for at least 2-4 hours. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes will also work. Just avoid marinating longer than 12 hours to keep the texture from becoming too mushy.
Can I Grill Indoors?
Yes, if you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan or broiler. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, keeping an eye on the internal temperature to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover grilled pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook and dry them out!
