This amazing pork chop marinade is super simple and adds a burst of flavor! It combines soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of honey for a sweet and tangy taste.
I love how quickly this marinade comes together. Just mix it up, let your chops soak for a bit, and then grill or bake them. Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use bone-in or boneless pork chops for this recipe. Bone-in chops tend to be juicier, while boneless are easier to cook quickly. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider swapping in chicken breasts.
Soy Sauce: A key flavor in the marinade, soy sauce gives the chops that umami kick. If you’re avoiding soy, try using tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps to tenderize the meat. Feel free to substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer a different taste or need a higher smoke point.
Honey: It balances the soy sauce’s saltiness and adds a subtle sweetness. If you’re vegan or looking to cut sugar, maple syrup or agave nectar works great as a substitute.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It adds acidity and brightness to the marinade. If you don’t have this on hand, white wine vinegar or lemon juice can do the trick!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Flavorful and Tender?
Marinating is the secret here! Letting the pork chops sit in the marinade for at least an hour is crucial for flavor penetration. However, the longer you marinate, the more flavorful they become. An overnight soak is ideal when possible.
- Make sure to coat the pork chops completely.
- Store them in the fridge to keep the meat safe while marinating.
- Before grilling, let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Grilling is another vital step. High heat creates those beautiful grill marks while keeping the inside juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for the best results.
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
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep time and at least 1 hour to marinate (up to overnight if you prefer). When it’s time to cook, grilling the pork chops takes about 10 minutes. So, you can easily plan around 1 hour and 20 minutes total, plus any additional time for marinating.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by taking a medium bowl and whisking together the soy sauce, olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, making sure they’re fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Pop it in the refrigerator and let the pork chops marinate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, let them sit overnight!
3. Grill 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, allowing the excess marinade to drip off. Discard any 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) and have those nice, beautiful grill marks.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This helps them stay juicy! Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your deliciously marinated pork chops!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Marinade?
Absolutely! While this marinade works great with pork chops, you can also use it for pork tenderloin, pork belly, or even pork ribs. Just be sure to adjust the marinating time: tougher cuts can benefit from longer marination, preferably up to 12 hours or even overnight.
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
No worries! If you’re out of apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar for a milder taste. Just keep the amount the same to maintain the balance in flavors.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for as little as 1 hour, but for the best flavor, aim for at least 4 hours or even overnight. Just remember not to exceed 24 hours, as the acid in the marinade can start to break down the meat too much, resulting in a mushy texture.
Can I Store Leftover Cooked Pork Chops?
Yes! Once cooked, you can store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent them from drying out. You can also add a splash of broth or water to help retain moisture.
