This marinade for pork chops is a game-changer! It mixes soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, which makes each bite super tasty and juicy.
I love to let the chops soak in the marinade overnight. It’s like a little flavor party for the meat! Trust me, you won’t want to skip this step. 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and tenderness. If needed, boneless or thinner cuts work too but adjust cooking times.
Olive Oil: This adds rich flavor and helps the marinade stick. If you’re looking for a milder option, use vegetable or canola oil instead.
Soy Sauce: This gives a hearty umami flavor. For a low-sodium version, you can substitute with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari, especially if you’re watching your salt intake.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It brings a tangy taste that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar. White vinegar or even lemon juice can work in a pinch.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness and caramelization. You can swap it for honey or maple syrup if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are great for aroma. Fresh herbs could also be used, or try Italian seasoning for a different twist.
How Can I Keep My Pork Chops Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy pork chops is in the marinade and cooking method. By marinating overnight, the flavors really penetrate the meat. Here’s a simple guide to achieve the best results:
- Mix the marinade well and ensure the pork chops are covered completely.
- Let them sit in the marinade in the fridge. Longer is better; overnight is ideal.
- Always preheat your grill or grill pan. This helps to sear the chops and lock in juices.
- Grill until just cooked; aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for the perfect doneness.
- Let the meat rest after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat for tenderness.
How to Make the Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in 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 chop the ingredients, plus at least 1 hour and up to overnight for marinating the pork chops. Then, you will need about 10-12 minutes for grilling. So, plan for at least 1 hour and 20 minutes in total, but the longer you marinate, the better the flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, dried rosemary, black pepper, and salt. Mix it well until everything is combined nicely. This will be the delicious marinade that adds flavor to your pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place your pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Pop them in the refrigerator and let them marinate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, overnight is ideal!
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Be sure to discard the leftover marinade. Grill the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This will ensure they are cooked through but still juicy!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy your tasty pork chops with your favorite sides for a delightful meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just note that they may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them and check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) after about 3-4 minutes per side.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the pork chops for up to 24 hours for an even deeper flavor. Just be cautious not to exceed this timeframe, as prolonged marinating can make the meat too salty or mushy due to the soy sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider Vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can use white wine vinegar or rice vinegar as a substitute. Each will give a slightly different taste, but they will still enhance the flavor of the marinade nicely!
How to Store Leftover Marinade?
Since the marinade has been in contact with raw meat, it’s best to discard any unused marinade. If you want to keep a portion of it for basting, set some aside in a separate bowl before adding it to the pork chops. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but always ensure it’s heated to a boil before using it for basting.
