Grilling season is upon us, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with these perfectly grilled pork chops. The marinade not only adds a burst of flavor but also ensures the chops remain juicy and succulent. It’s a foolproof choice for any barbecue enthusiast.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 26 minutes (including marinating time)
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple marinade ensures juicy, flavorful chops every time.
- Quick grilling makes it a weeknight winner.
- Minimal cleanup, perfect for outdoor cooking.
- Adaptable to both bone-in and boneless chops.
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops (bone in, or boneless): Choose bone-in for more flavor or boneless for quicker cooking.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Helps the marinade adhere and keeps the chops moist. Substitute with avocado oil if needed.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds sweetness and promotes caramelization.
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Gives a tangy depth. Regular yellow mustard works in a pinch.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative.
- 1 teaspoons lemon zest: Brightens the marinade with citrus notes.
- 2 teaspoons parsley leaves (chopped, plus more for garnish): Fresh touch for the marinade and garnish.
- 2 teaspoons thyme leaves (chopped): Herbal aroma. Use rosemary for a more robust flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential seasoning to enhance flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds mild heat and depth.
- 1 teaspoons minced garlic: Provides aromatic warmth. Garlic powder can be a backup.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Chops
Place the pork chops into a bowl or resealable gallon-sized bag. This helps the marinade to coat well and infuse the flavors efficiently.
Step 2: Mix the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, lemon zest, parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, and garlic. Aim for a well-emulsified mixture to ensure even coating and flavor distribution.
Step 3: Marinate the Chops
Pour the marinade over the pork chops, ensuring that they’re fully coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour in the fridge—or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
Step 4: Grill the Chops
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. This temperature ensures a good sear while preventing the sugar in the marinade from burning. Cook the chops for 6-8 minutes per side, or until an instant-read thermometer reads 145°F at the thickest part.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier bite. Garnish with additional parsley before serving if desired.
Recipe FAQs
How can I tell when the pork chops are done?
Using a reliable meat thermometer is key. The ideal internal temperature is 145°F, followed by a 5-minute rest for peak juiciness.
Is it necessary to marinate the pork chops for the full 8 hours?
Not necessarily. While longer marination intensifies the flavors, even an hour is enough to impart a notable taste.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Absolutely, this versatile marinade works well with chicken and turkey too. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
