This tasty pork chop marinade is a mix of zesty ingredients that pack a punch! With soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, it makes every bite juicy and delicious.
I love how easy it is to whip up this marinade. Just mix, soak the chops for a bit, and grill! You won’t believe the flavor it brings. Perfect for a quick dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use bone-in or boneless pork chops depending on your preference. Bone-in chops tend to be juicier, but boneless are easier to handle. If you want a lighter option, try using chicken breasts instead!
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to substitute with canola or avocado oil for similar results.
Soy Sauce: It brings saltiness and umami to the marinade. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. If you need low-sodium, look for low-sodium soy sauce.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can work in a pinch, but the flavor will change slightly. I find apple cider gives a lovely sweetness.
Honey: Provides sweetness to balance the savory flavors. Maple syrup or agave syrup can be used as alternatives if you want a vegan option or simply don’t have honey.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The marinade is key to making the pork chops juicy and full of flavor. First, mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl until everything is well combined. Consider letting the pork chop sit in the marinade longer for deeper flavor — overnight is best if you have the time.
- Choose a resealable bag or shallow dish for easy marinating.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bag to help the marinade coat the meat evenly.
- Finally, remember to let the pork chops rest after grilling, which allows juices to redistribute. This is a crucial step for delicious results!
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade. You’ll want to let the pork chops marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, 24 hours will give you more flavor! Cooking time on the grill is around 12-16 minutes. So, plan for a total of about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 24 hours, mostly for marinating!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This marinade will make your pork chops super tasty!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they’re nicely coated all over. If using a bag, seal it tightly, or cover the dish. Put the chops in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours if you want that extra flavor boost!
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 and discard any leftover marinade, as you won’t need it. Grill the chops for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You’ll know they’re good to go!
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the pork chops are cooked, let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious 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 loin, or even ribs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly – for larger cuts like tenderloin, you may need to grill longer until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
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 6 to 24 hours. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as the acid in the vinegar can start to break down the meat, leading to a mushy texture.
Can I Store Leftover Marinade?
It’s best to discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw meat to avoid contamination. If you want to save some marinade for basting, set aside a portion before adding the pork. You can store any unused marinade (not contaminated) in the fridge for up to a week.
What Should I Serve with Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilled pork chops pair wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a bit of sweetness, consider serving them with apple sauce or a fruit salsa to complement the flavors of the marinade!
