This marinade is a game-changer for pork chops! With a mix of flavors like garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness, it makes the meat super juicy and tasty.
I love marinating my chops overnight, so they soak up all that deliciousness. Plus, it makes dinner feel like a special treat, even on busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for juicy meat and flavor. If you prefer boneless, they’ll work too, but adjust cooking time as they cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or sunflower oil can be good choices for a lighter taste.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce gives a depth of flavor. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. If you’re watching your sodium, low-sodium soy sauce is available too.
Honey: This provides sweetness and helps caramelize the chops when cooking. Maple syrup makes a delicious substitute if you don’t have honey.
Herbs: Oregano and thyme enhance the flavor nicely. If you’re out of these, Italian seasoning can work in a pinch.
How Do I Ensure the Pork Chops Are Well-Marinated?
Marinating pork chops is all about time and thoroughness. A good marinade seeps into the meat and enhances flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Whisk the marinade ingredients well so they’re fully combined.
- Use a resealable bag for the chops to make sure every piece is coated well.
- Marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best for rich flavor.
- Discard the marinade after use; it should not be reused for food safety.
Letting the chops rest before serving allows juices to redistribute, making them more tender. Enjoy your pork chops!
How to Make The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 bone-in pork chops
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of preparation time to mix the marinade and prepare the pork chops. You’ll also want to marinate the chops for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, letting them sit overnight is ideal. Cooking the pork chops will take around 10-12 minutes on the grill or skillet.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. This marinade is going to give your pork chops amazing flavor!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a big bowl. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they’re all covered nicely. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and pop it into the refrigerator. Let the chops marinate for at least 1 hour — or longer if you can wait, as overnight brings the best flavor.
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the pork chops on the grill or skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have lovely grill marks.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and extra flavor. Now, dig in and enjoy your deliciously marinated pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe without any changes to the marinade. Just keep in mind that boneless chops may cook a little faster, so start checking their internal temperature a minute or two earlier, aiming for that same 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar. Both options will still provide a tangy flavor to the marinade. Just keep the same amount in the recipe!
How Long Do the Pork Chops Need to Marinate?
For the best flavor, marinate your pork chops for at least 1 hour, but if you can, allow them to sit in the marinade overnight. This extra time enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
How Should I Store Leftover Marinated Pork Chops?
If you have leftover marinated pork chops before grilling, seal them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. If they’re cooked, you can refrigerate them in a similar container for 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop gently to avoid drying them out.
