This marinade for pork chops is packed with zesty flavors! With ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness, it transforms ordinary meat into something amazing.
I always let my chops soak in this tasty mix for a few hours—trust me, the flavor is worth the wait! 😋 Just grill them up and enjoy a juicy dinner!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops give you the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops will also work but may cook faster. Make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly!
Soy Sauce: For those avoiding gluten, tamari is a great substitute for soy sauce. Low-sodium soy sauce is also an option to reduce salt intake without sacrificing flavor.
Olive Oil: If you don’t have olive oil, any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil can be used. I personally love using avocado oil for its health benefits and high smoke point.
Apple Cider Vinegar: White or red wine vinegar can work in a pinch. If you’re after a sweeter touch, try balsamic vinegar instead.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Maple syrup can be a tasty alternative if you want a different flavor profile, plus it’s vegan-friendly!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is unbeatable, but if it’s not available, you can use garlic powder— about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy, flavorful pork chops is in the marination process. Allowing the meat to soak in the marinade overnight really enhances the flavor. Not only does it infuse deliciousness, but it also helps to tenderize the meat. Here’s a quick guide:
- Combine all marinade ingredients thoroughly in a bowl.
- Submerge the pork chops completely, using a resealable bag for easier handling.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best for richer flavor.
- Before cooking, bring them out to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes.
Following these steps will make sure your pork chops are not only full of flavor but also juicy and tender. Enjoy your cooking!
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total time needed is about 1 hour for marinating and an additional 15-20 minutes for cooking. It’s best to let the pork chops marinate overnight for maximum flavor, but if you’re short on time, at least 1 hour will work too!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. This will be your tasty marinade for the pork chops!
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’re well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or, if you can, overnight for super flavorful chops.
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Cook the chops for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This will help ensure they are juicy and delicious!
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the pork chops off the heat and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy! If you like, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your tasty pork chops warm and savor the flavors!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, boneless pork chops work great in this marinade too! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as boneless chops may cook slightly faster — around 4-6 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked to the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What if I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
No problem! You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or even lemon juice. Both will add a nice acidity to your marinade, enhancing the flavor of the pork chops. Just remember to adjust the quantity to your taste, starting with the same amount.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for a minimum of 1 hour, but for the best flavor, aim for at least 4 hours or overnight. If you’re short on time, even a quick 30-minute marinade can still impart some great flavor!
How to Store Leftover Marinade?
Any leftover marinade should be discarded for safety after it’s come into contact with raw pork. If you want to save time for future use, consider doubling the marinade ingredients and set aside a portion before adding the pork. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week!
