This marinade for pork chops is packed with flavor! Made with simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and honey, it gives the pork a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
Honestly, I could just marinate everything in this mix! It’s so easy; just whisk it up and let the pork soak. Serve with veggies, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are juicy and flavorful. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too; just watch the cooking time since they’re thinner.
Soy Sauce: This adds depth and saltiness. For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. If you’re watching your sodium, look for low-sodium soy sauce.
Olive Oil: A classic choice for marinating. You can swap it with avocado oil or any mild vegetable oil if desired.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It gives a nice tang. You could also use white vinegar or lemon juice for a different flavor profile.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both add sweetness. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, maple syrup can work as a substitute.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic really boosts flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but I prefer the fresh stuff.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a hint of sharpness. Yellow mustard can be a substitute if you like a milder taste.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary are great, but feel free to use whatever herb you love! Oregano or Italian seasoning can also be tasty.
How Do You Marinate Pork Chops for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is all about getting those flavors into the meat, so it’s important to do it right. Here are some tips for marinating your pork chops effectively:
- Mix the marinade really well to combine all flavors. Whisking helps!
- Marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Prior to grilling, let the pork chops sit outside the fridge for about 15-30 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly.
- Always discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw meat unless it’s cooked afterward to ensure safety.
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 honey or brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the pork chops—overnight is even better! Cooking the pork chops on the grill will take about 10 minutes. So, plan for around 1 hour and 20 minutes total, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, Dijon mustard, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme (or rosemary) until everything is mixed well. This flavorful marinade will make your pork chops delicious!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Grab a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Place the pork chops inside and pour the marinade over them, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Pop them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. If you’ve got the time, let them sit overnight for extra flavor!
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. 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 give you succulent and juicy chops!
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your flavorful grilled pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in place of bone-in chops! Just be aware that they may cook slightly faster, so check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) after about 3-4 minutes per side on the grill.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium choice. Both will impart a similar umami flavor to your marinade!
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
For the best flavor, it’s ideal to marinate your pork chops for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours. Just remember, if marinating for longer, use a non-reactive container like glass or plastic to avoid any metallic taste!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, taking care not to overcook them and dry out the meat. Adding a splash of broth or water can help retain moisture when reheating.