If you want juicy and flavorful pork chops, this marinade is the way to go! It blends soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness for that perfect kick.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you after soaking those chops in this mix! I love to let them marinate overnight—just makes everything better. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and staying juicy. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops will work too, but watch cooking time as they may be thinner.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil is a fantastic substitute with a similar taste.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce gives a salty umami punch. For a gluten-free option, try tamari instead. Coconut aminos are also a good soy-free alternative if you’re avoiding soy altogether.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It helps tenderize the meat and adds a tangy flavor. White vinegar or red wine vinegar can be used if you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand.
Honey: Honey balances the tanginess with sweetness. Maple syrup can replace honey if you prefer a vegan option, though the flavor may vary slightly.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice kick. If you’re out, yellow mustard can work, or you can skip it if you prefer a milder taste.
How Do You Marinate Pork Chops for Best Flavor?
Marinating properly enhances the flavor and tenderness of pork chops. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix all marinade ingredients thoroughly before adding the pork, ensuring even coverage.
- Use a resealable bag for easy coating. Be sure to squeeze out excess air to help the marinade penetrate.
- Optimal marinating time is overnight, but even 2 hours adds a nice flavor.
- Always let the pork rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chops juicier.
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, plus at least 2 hours for marinating (or overnight for even better flavor). After that, cooking the pork chops will take around 10-12 minutes. All in all, you’re looking at a total of around 2 hours and 20 minutes—but remember, most of that time is just letting the chops soak in the lovely marinade!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk the Marinade:
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Keep whisking until everything is mixed together nicely. This marinade will give your pork chops an amazing flavor!
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly and massage the marinade around a bit. If using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap.
3. Marinate:
Now, it’s time to let the flavors soak in! Put the pork chops in the refrigerator and let them marinate for at least 2 hours. For the best taste, let them marinate overnight—you’ll be amazed at the difference!
4. Get Ready to Cook:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the marinade, allowing the extra marinade to drip off. You want to leave some on for flavor, but too much can cause flare-ups on the grill.
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the grill or skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a nice char on the outside and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, take the pork chops off the heat and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the meat, making them tender and juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your delicious pork chops with freshly chopped parsley and serve them up. Enjoy every bite of these flavorful marinated pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so start checking for doneness at around 3-4 minutes per side to avoid overcooking.
What if I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or even lemon juice in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the quantity based on your taste preference, starting with the same amount and adding more if needed.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, but avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the vinegar can break down the proteins too much and make the meat mushy. If you prep ahead for a full day, that will still yield great flavor!
How to Store Leftover Marinade?
If you have leftover marinade, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Just make sure to bring it to a boil before using it as a sauce, especially if it has come into contact with raw meat.
