This marinade for grilled pork chops is super simple and adds great flavor. Just mix up some soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of honey for a sweet and salty kick!
Honestly, I love how easy it is to toss the pork chops in the marinade and let them soak up all that yumminess. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add extra flavor and moisture, but boneless are quicker to cook. If you prefer a leaner option, look for center-cut pork loin chops.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth to the marinade. For a gluten-free alternative, use tamari. Low-sodium soy sauce can also work if you’re watching your salt intake.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice makes a big difference in flavor. If you don’t have orange juice, apple juice or even pineapple juice can add a nice sweetness.
Honey: Honey gives a lovely sweetness that balances the salt. If you need a substitute, maple syrup works well too.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings out a strong flavor! If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used—just half the amount.
How Do You Grill Pork Chops to Keep Them Juicy?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky since they can dry out if overcooked. Here are some tips to ensure juicy, tender chops:
- Marinate for at least 1 hour but marinating overnight is ideal.
- Preheat the grill properly to get a good sear. Medium-high heat is perfect for a nice char.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pull the chops off the grill at 145°F (63°C).
- Let the chops rest after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier bite.
Easy Grilled Pork Chop Marinade Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Orange slices (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This marinade needs about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate (longer for the best flavor). Grilling will take an additional 10-15 minutes, depending on your grill and chop thickness. Overall, you should plan for at least 1 hour and 20 minutes to enjoy delicious marinated pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, orange juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Use a whisk to mix everything together until smooth and well combined.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Put the pork chops into 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 with plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, let them marinate for 4 hours or even overnight!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to get a lovely sear on the pork chops!
4. Prepare the Chops for Grilling:
After marinating, remove the pork chops from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade to prevent contamination.
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want to grill them until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and they have beautiful grill marks.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This step is important as it allows the juices to stay inside the meat.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your grilled pork chops with freshly chopped parsley and serve on a platter with orange slices for a colorful presentation. Enjoy your juicy and flavorful meal!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Pork Chop Marinade Recipe
Can I Use Other Types of Meat with This Marinade?
Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with chicken, especially boneless breasts or thighs. You can also try it with beef steaks or tofu for a vegetarian option—just adjust the marinating time accordingly!
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for anywhere from 1 hour to up to 24 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the meat will be. However, avoid marinating for more than 24 hours as the acidity in the marinade can start to break down the meat too much.
Can I Cook the Pork Chops in the Oven Instead of Grilling?
Yes! If you prefer cooking them in the oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated pork chops on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they reach the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave for a quick option. To prevent drying out, add a splash of broth or water before reheating!
