This simple marinade brings out the best in juicy pork chops. With a tasty mix of garlic, herbs, and a splash of vinegar, it adds flavor without fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for grilling because they stay juicy and flavorful. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too, but reduce cooking time as they cook faster.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami and saltiness. For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice brightens the dish! If oranges aren’t available, lemon juice can be a nice substitute, giving a different but tasty twist.
Garlic: Fresh is always better for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) can work instead. Alternatively, consider using shallots for a milder taste.
Honey: This balances the flavors and aids in browning. If you’re looking for a sugar alternative, try maple syrup or agave syrup.
How Do You Ensure Tender and Juicy Pork Chops?
Marinating is key for juicy pork chops! The longer you marinate, the more flavor gets into the meat. Aim for at least 1 hour, but 4-6 hours is ideal. Don’t skip the resting time after grilling; it allows the juices to redistribute.
- Start by mixing all marinade ingredients well to blend the flavors.
- Coat the pork chops thoroughly, and make sure they’re submerged, using a resealable bag for easier coverage.
- While grilling, let the meat sear on each side before flipping, aiming for those beautiful grill marks.
- Always check with a meat thermometer for doneness; 145°F is your goal for juicy results!
Enjoy grilling and impressing your guests with these tasty chops!
Easy Grilled Pork Chop Marinade Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
- Orange slices for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation, and you’ll want to marinate the pork chops for at least 1 hour, but 4-6 hours is best for deeper flavor. The actual grilling takes about 10-12 minutes. So overall, plan for around 30 minutes plus marinating time to get these delicious pork chops on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk Together the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, orange juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, honey, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and dried oregano. Whisk everything together until the honey is fully dissolved and well mixed. This mixture will enhance the flavor of the pork chops beautifully!
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, ensuring they are fully coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, and then place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, aim for 4 to 6 hours.
3. Preheat and Prepare for Grilling:
Before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in oil or a non-stick grilling spray.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the chops on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork chops. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chops, so keep an eye on them!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once they’ve cooked to perfection, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat juicy. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve with orange slices for a refreshing touch!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful grilled pork chops with a hint of citrus and smoky char! They’re perfect for a summer dinner or any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check for doneness a couple of minutes earlier and aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
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 4-6 hours. If you need to marinate overnight, that’s okay too, just be cautious of the acidity from the marinade as it can start to cure the meat.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Orange Juice?
If you don’t have orange juice, you can substitute it with lemon juice or another citrus juice, like lime. You can also mix some water with a bit of sugar to replicate the sweetness of orange juice.
How Should I Store Leftover Marinade and Cooked Chops?
It’s best to discard any leftover marinade after it’s touched raw pork to avoid cross-contamination. Cooked pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little moisture if necessary to prevent drying out.
Feel free to ask if you have more questions or need further tips! Enjoy your cooking!
