This easy grilled pork chop marinade is a game changer! With tasty ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, it adds wonderful flavor to your pork chops.
Marinating is super easy; just mix, coat the chops, and let them soak up the goodness before grilling. I can’t resist the juicy, delicious bites, and neither will you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops work well because the bone adds flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops or loin chops can also be used. Just reduce the cooking time slightly.
Soy Sauce: This adds savory umami. If you’re watching sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is a great substitute. For a gluten-free version, tamari works just as well.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for flavor, but store-bought juice is fine too. If you don’t have orange juice, apple juice or pineapple juice can add a nice sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that punch of flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use about 1/2 teaspoon of powder for each clove.
Brown Sugar or Honey: I love the caramelization sugar provides. If you want to cut sugar, you can use maple syrup or stevia for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks and Juiciness on My Pork Chops?
To achieve those beautiful grill marks and keep the pork chops juicy, follow these tips:
- Preheat the grill properly to medium-high heat. This ensures a good sear when you place the chops on it.
- Don’t crowd the grill! Give each chop enough space so it can sear properly.
- After flipping, avoid poking the meat with utensils as this can release juices. Use tongs to handle them gently.
- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them more tender.
With these tips, you’ll serve up perfectly grilled pork chops every time!
Easy Grilled Pork Chop Marinade Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 to 6 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of active preparation time. However, you’ll want to allow for at least 1 hour, preferably 3-4 hours, for marinating in the fridge. If time permits, marinating overnight will give you the best flavor. The grilling process will take about 10 minutes, plus a 5-minute resting time before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, orange juice, olive oil, brown sugar (or honey), minced garlic, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined. This marinade will give your pork chops a delicious flavor!
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 all evenly coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour; for even better flavor, aim for 3-4 hours or overnight!
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Grill the chops for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have those beautiful grill marks.
4. Let Them Rest:
Once the pork chops are grilled, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This pause allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and tender.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your grilled pork chops with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. For an extra touch, you can serve them on a bed of fresh orange slices for color and an additional burst of citrus aroma!
Now, dig in and enjoy your juicy, flavorful grilled pork chops that are sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so check for doneness around 3-4 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops anywhere from 1 hour up to 24 hours. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will be. Just remember that over-marinating can lead to a mushy texture, so it’s best to stick to the recommended time.
Can I Freeze the Marinade or Leftover Chops?
Yes, you can freeze the marinade if you have leftovers. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. As for the cooked pork chops, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the microwave or oven.
What Should I Serve with Grilled Pork Chops?
Pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with grilled vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, a quinoa salad or steamed asparagus works beautifully too!
