This marinade is the secret to juicy and tasty pork chops! With a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, it really brings out the flavor.
Trust me, your pork chops will thank you! I often soak them overnight, and the next day, they’re so full of flavor, it’s hard to eat just one! 😋
I love how easy it is to whip up this marinade. Just mix, pour over the chops, and let it sit. It makes dinner a breeze and keeps everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops. I personally like bone-in for added flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using pork loin or tenderloin.
Soy Sauce: This adds a salty umami flavor. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead. Low-sodium soy sauce is another good option if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Olive Oil: Good quality extra virgin olive oil works best for flavor, but you can substitute with vegetable oil or avocado oil if you prefer.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This brings acidity to balance the dish. You can replace it with white wine vinegar or lemon juice if you don’t have any on hand.
Honey: For sweetness, honey shines here, but you can swap it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different twist, especially if you need a vegan option.
How Do You Get the Most Flavor from Your Marinade?
The marinade is essential for tenderizing and flavoring the pork chops. It’s important to let them soak for at least an hour, but overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to really penetrate the meat.
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Make sure to coat the pork chops completely by either placing them in a bag or shallow dish with the marinade.
- Turn the pork occasionally while marinating to ensure even flavoring.
When ready to cook, let the excess marinade drip off to prevent flare-ups on the grill. This technique helps achieve that beautiful caramelization on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This marinated pork chop recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour of marinating time. You can let them sit in the marinade overnight for even better flavor. After marinating, cooking will take around 12-14 minutes. Altogether, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops and make sure they are well coated on all sides. If using a bag, seal it tightly, or if using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. Pop the bag or dish in the refrigerator and let the pork chops marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you want a stronger flavor!
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, letting any excess drip off. Grill the pork chops for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and have grill marks. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices stay inside the meat. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve them hot and enjoy your delicious marinated pork chops!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Marinade?
Absolutely! While the recipe is designed for pork chops, you can also use pork tenderloin, pork loin, or even pork ribs. Just adjust the marinating time: tender cuts like tenderloin may only need an hour, while tougher cuts can benefit from longer marinating (up to 12 hours) to become flavorful and tender.
What’s a Good Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a soy sauce substitute, tamari is a great gluten-free option, or you can use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor. If you want to keep it vegan, try a mix of vegetable broth with a splash of vinegar or some miso paste diluted with water for a similar umami taste.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops for Too Long?
While marinating overnight is perfect for flavor, it’s best not to marinate pork chops for more than 24 hours. The acidity from the vinegar can begin to break down the meat, resulting in a mushy texture. If you’re short on time, 1 to 2 hours yields great flavor!
How Should I 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 be sure to bring it to a boil before using it again as a sauce to eliminate any bacteria from the raw meat. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to 3 months, making future meals even easier!
