The Best Pork Chop Marinade

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops. Bone-in tends to be juicier, but boneless is also great for easy eating. If you can’t find pork, chicken thighs or even tofu can be a protein option for marinating.

Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is key for flavor. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. If you want a lighter flavor, coconut aminos is a good substitute too.

Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. You could swap it with avocado oil for a higher smoke point or even sesame oil for an Asian twist in flavor.

Apple Cider Vinegar: This helps tenderize the meat and brings a tangy flavor. You can substitute it with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar for a milder taste.

Dijon Mustard: It adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re out of Dijon, yellow mustard or whole grain mustard can also work, but the taste will be slightly different.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is always best, but garlic powder can be a good substitute—just use a little less since it’s more concentrated.

How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Flavorful and Juicy?

The key to juicy and flavorful pork chops is marinating! Allow at least 2 hours for the marinade to work its magic, but if you can, let them marinate overnight. This builds more flavor and helps tenderize the meat.

• Whisk all marinade ingredients until combined for even flavor.
• Seal the chops in a bag or dish, making sure they are well coated.
• Don’t skip the resting time after cooking. Letting the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes helps the juices redistribute, keeping them juicy when you slice

The Best Pork Chop Marinade

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Pork Chops:

• 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)

For The Marinade:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious marinade recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and you should let the pork chops marinate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. Cooking takes another 10-15 minutes. So, all in all, it’s a great dish for planning ahead and enjoying some tasty flavors!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

In a medium bowl, grab a whisk and combine the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, minced garlic, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Whisk it all together until everything is mixed nicely into a smooth marinade.

2. Marinate the Pork Chops:

Take your pork chops and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour your fresh marinade over the chops. Make sure each one is coated well in that delicious sauce. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly, then pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight to really soak up those flavors.

3. Cooking the Pork Chops:

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the fridge and remove them from the marinade, letting any extra marinade drip off. Dispose of the marinade safely. Now, grill or sear the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have those appetizing grill marks. Once done, let them rest for about 5 minutes off the heat.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

Slice, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve those flavorful pork chops warm. Enjoy every bite!

Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar in This Marinade?

Absolutely! If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each vinegar adds its own unique taste, so choose one that complements your preference!

How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?

You can marinate the pork chops for as little as 2 hours, but for the best flavor, try to marinate them overnight. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will provide some flavor, but longer is better!

What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?

No worries! You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos, which provides a similar salty-sweet flavor. If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, try using low-sodium soy sauce or a mixture of broth and a bit of vinegar.

How to Store Leftover Marinade?

If you have leftover marinade (before adding the pork), you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. However, never reuse marinade that has been in contact with raw meat unless you boil it first to kill any bacteria. Alternatively, you can freeze it for later use, but make sure to thaw it safely in the fridge before using.