This mouthwatering pork chop marinade is a perfect blend of tangy and sweet flavors. With simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and honey, it really brings the meat to life!
I love how easy it is—just mix, marinate, and grill for juicy chops that impress everyone. Plus, it makes my kitchen smell amazing! Who can resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are juicy and flavorful, but you can use boneless chops if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they’ll cook faster.
Soy Sauce: This is a key ingredient for flavor. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Olive Oil: I like using extra virgin olive oil for its taste. You can substitute it with vegetable oil or avocado oil if needed.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess. If you don’t have it on hand, white vinegar or lemon juice works well too.
Brown Sugar: It balances the savory flavors nicely. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup, but adjust to taste since they’re sweeter.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice kick. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can be a substitute—use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
How Do I Marinate Pork Chops for Best Flavor?
Marinating is key to achieving juicy, flavorful pork chops. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl—whisking ensures a well-blended mixture.
- Place your pork chops in a resealable bag or dish to coat them evenly.
- Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. The longer, the better—up to overnight for deeper flavor.
- Always discard the marinade after use to prevent contamination.
Remember, resting the pork chops after cooking is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them tender. Enjoy your meal!
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 brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1 inch thick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour for marinating. However, if you have time, letting the pork chops marinate overnight will give them even better flavor. After marinating, you’ll need about 10-12 minutes to cook them. So, total time can be about 70 minutes, including marinating!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and onion powder. Mix it well until everything is combined and the sugar is dissolved.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the bone-in pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly to keep the marinade in. Refrigerate the pork chops for at least 1 hour (or longer if you can!) to let those flavors soak in.
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Take the marinated pork chops out of the fridge and remove them from the marinade. Discard the leftover marinade. Grill or sear the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This will ensure they are juicy and full of flavor!
4. Rest and Serve:
After cooking, remove the pork chops from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy your deliciously marinated pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless pork chops, just follow the same marinating and cooking instructions. Keep in mind that boneless chops may cook a little quicker, so check for doneness around 3-4 minutes per side.
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider Vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, you can use white wine vinegar or even lemon juice as a substitute. Both will provide a nice acidity, however, be mindful that they may slightly alter the flavor profile of the marinade.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for as little as 1 hour and as long as 24 hours. The longer they marinate, the more flavor they’ll absorb. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity can start to break down the meat too much.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
