This marinade for pork chops is a game-changer! With a mix of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and spices, it adds incredible flavor and keeps your chops nice and juicy.
Marinating is like giving your pork chops a warm hug before cooking! I love letting them soak overnight; they come out so tasty. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops provide great flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops, but they may cook faster. Just watch the grilling time closely!
Soy Sauce: This ingredient brings depth and saltiness to the marinade. For a gluten-free version, switch to tamari, or use coconut aminos for a lighter flavor.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, canola oil or grapeseed oil work well too.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and caramelization. Maple syrup can be an excellent substitute for those who avoid honey. Just adjust the quantity to taste.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It’s tangy and balances the marinade. White vinegar or lemon juice can easily take its place, offering a fresh zing.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is my go-to for a pungent kick. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is always better for flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting perfectly cooked pork chops is key to enjoying their flavor. Here’s how to ensure they’re cooked just right:
- Use a meat thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are juicy and safe to eat.
- Don’t skip resting: Let the chops rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, making them more tender.
- Monitor cooking time: Grill for about 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on thickness. Avoid flipping too often to get nice grill marks!
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe involves about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll want to marinate the pork chops for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, let them soak overnight. Cooking the chops will take about 12-15 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 2 hours and 20 minutes, mostly waiting for the marinade to work its magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, black pepper, onion powder, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix it all together until everything is combined and smooth!
2. Marinate the Chops:
Take your pork chops and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops so they’re well-coated. Make sure to seal the bag or cover the dish! This is where all the flavor will soak in.
3. Chill Out:
Now, pop the pork chops into the refrigerator. Let them sit and marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor. It’s a good time to catch up on your favorite show!
4. Preheat and Cook:
When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill or stovetop skillet to medium-high. Take the pork chops out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chops for about 4-6 minutes on each side, until you see nice grill marks, and they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
After cooking, let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This keeps them juicy and tasty. Finally, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely finish. Enjoy your delicious, marinated pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work perfectly for this marinade. Since they are usually thinner, be sure to adjust the cooking time to about 3-5 minutes per side, checking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for as little as 2 hours or up to 24 hours. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will be. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours as the texture of the meat may change.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a soy sauce substitute, consider using tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor. Both work wonderfully in this marinade! Just keep in mind that these alternatives may have different salt levels, so adjust accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftover Marinade?
Since the marinade has been in contact with raw meat, it’s best not to reuse it. However, if you’re looking to store any leftover marinade that hasn’t touched the meat, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week. Always bring it to a boil before using it as a sauce to ensure safety!
