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.