This marinade for pork chops is simply the best! It uses vinegar, oil, garlic, and a mix of herbs to make the meat juicy and full of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are the star here! They stay juicy and flavorful while cooking. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too but may cook a bit quicker, so keep an eye on them.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami richness. If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium soy sauce or switch it with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Olive Oil: It brings healthy fats to the mix! You can swap it out for avocado oil or any light oil if you prefer a different flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It adds brightness and acidity. If you’re out, lemon juice makes a great substitute, giving a fresh zest to the marinade!
Brown Sugar: It balances the saltiness and adds a touch of sweetness. Coconut sugar or honey also works well if you want a different flavor profile or need a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for depth! You could use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh really makes the marinade sing.
How Do I Achieve the Best Marinade Flavor?
Creating a marinade that really penetrates the pork chops is key for great flavor. Start by thoroughly whisking together your marinade ingredients until well combined. The more time the pork chops spend soaking in the flavors, the better!
- Marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
- Make sure each chop is fully coated by turning them occasionally in the bag or dish.
- Before grilling, let the excess marinade drip off to avoid flare-ups on the grill.
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
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 will take about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade, plus at least 2 hours of marination time. If you can, marinate the pork chops overnight for the best flavor. Cooking them on the grill or skillet will take around 10-12 minutes. So, you’ll be enjoying delicious pork chops in about 2 hours and 20 minutes, or longer if you marinate overnight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and if you’re using it, thyme or rosemary. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This is your tasty marinade!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are fully coated in that delicious mixture. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the fridge. Let the chops marinate for at least 2 hours. For even more flavor, let them marinate overnight!
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the marinade and let any extra marinade drip off. Place the chops on the grill or in the skillet and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are juicy and perfect!
4. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the heat and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them tender and succulent. Before serving, add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely finishing touch!
Now you’re ready to enjoy your flavorful pork chops! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Pork Chops?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts or thighs for the pork chops. Just adjust the marinating time to about 1-2 hours since chicken can absorb flavors more quickly. Remember to cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
No worries! If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can swap it with white vinegar or red wine vinegar in equal amounts. Another tasty option is to use fresh lemon juice for a citrusy twist!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops for Longer?
Yes, you can marinate the pork chops for up to 24 hours; just be cautious not to go over 24 hours as the marinade’s acidity might start to break down the meat too much, affecting the texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Marinade?
If you have leftover marinade, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. However, if it has come in contact with raw pork, it should be discarded for safety reasons. If you want to reuse it, you can boil it for 5 minutes to kill any bacteria before using it as a sauce.
