This easy pork chop marinade is a game changer! With a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, it adds amazing flavor that makes every bite juicy and tender.
Honestly, I could just drink it straight! 😂 I love to let the chops soak for a few hours before grilling. The result? Deliciousness that’s sure to impress at dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal because the bone adds flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can use boneless pork chops, but they may require slightly less cooking time.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. For a lighter taste or if you’re in a pinch, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or avocado oil.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient brings umami. You can use low-sodium soy sauce for less salt. Alternatively, tamari is a great gluten-free option!
Apple Cider Vinegar: It balances the marinade with acidity. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or lemon juice works well too.
Honey: Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. Maple syrup is a nice substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can be used, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your pork chops juicy and full of flavor, marinating is key! Here are a few steps for marinating:
- Mix the marinade ingredients well to ensure all flavors blend.
- Place the pork chops in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best. The longer, the better the flavor!
Once you’re ready to cook, let the chops come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook evenly.
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 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 of prep time, plus at least 2 hours for marinating (overnight is best!). Cooking the chops takes another 15 minutes, so plan for around 30-25 minutes in total (excluding marinating time) for a delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt until everything is well blended. This marinade will make your pork chops super flavorful!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they are completely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let them sit for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for full flavor.
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 the chops for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Make sure not to overcook to keep them juicy!
4. Rest and Serve:
Once they’re cooked, remove the chops from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even tastier! Top with some chopped parsley before serving, and enjoy your delicious pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine in this marinade. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as boneless chops typically cook faster. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach an 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 vinegar or red wine vinegar if you have those on hand. The flavor may be slightly different, but it will still work well to tenderize the pork. Just use the same amount as the recipe calls for.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
For the best flavor, marinate the pork chops for at least 2 hours, but you can let them sit in the marinade for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can add some nice flavor!
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm them up in a skillet over low heat. Just be sure not to overcook them again, as they can dry out!
