This marinade is a game changer for pork chops! It combines simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and honey to make your meat juicy and packed with flavor.
I love how it makes even the plainest pork chop taste like a star of the dinner table! Just let it soak, and you’ll have a tasty dish that’s easy to impress your friends with!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and tenderness. If you don’t have bone-in, boneless chops work too. Just adjust cooking time since they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: Good for marinating, but you can use canola or vegetable oil if you want a neutral flavor. I like to choose extra virgin olive oil for that extra richness.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth. If you’re watching sodium intake, try low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option!
Honey: A touch of sweetness balances the flavors. Maple syrup makes a great substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds acidity and brightness. White vinegar or lemon juice also works well if you don’t have it on hand.
How Do I Choose the Right Cooking Method for My Pork Chops?
Deciding how to cook pork chops can be tricky, but grilling or searing in a skillet are both great options. Both methods will give your chops a nice, flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- For grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil grates to prevent sticking.
- For skillet cooking, heat a little oil in a cast-iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chops until a meat thermometer reads 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re safe to eat but still juicy.
- Always let them rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 1 hour of marinating time, although overnight is best for maximum flavor! Cooking the pork chops will take about 10-12 minutes. So, overall, plan for about 1 hour and 20 minutes to enjoy these delicious pork chops.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed, so all those yummy flavors combine!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are coated nicely. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and let them refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, let them sit overnight!
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill or sear the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for the perfect doneness.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes so the juices settle. Garnish with fresh parsley for a nice pop of color. Enjoy your flavorful pork chops hot, and serve them alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or veggies!
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops in this recipe, but keep in mind they may cook faster, so adjust your grilling or searing time to about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for up to 24 hours. Marinating them for at least 1 hour is essential for good flavor, but the longer you marinate, the more intense the flavors will be. Just don’t exceed 24 hours as the texture may start to change.
Can I Store the Leftover Marinade?
It’s not safe to store leftover marinade once it has been in contact with raw meat. However, if you want to save time, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week before using it on your pork chops.
What are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Pork Chops?
Pork chops pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a more complete meal, try a side of rice or quinoa to soak up any juices!
