This marinade is a game changer for pork chops! With a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, it makes your chops super flavorful and juicy every time.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: You can use either bone-in or boneless pork chops, but I prefer bone-in for added flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using turkey chops instead.
Olive Oil: This adds richness, but you can swap it out for vegetable oil or avocado oil if needed. Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, which is great for grilling.
Soy Sauce: For a low-sodium version, try using tamari. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari works perfectly. Coconut aminos is another tasty alternative that’s sweeter and adds a unique flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a lovely tang. Feel free to substitute with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar if that’s what you have on hand.
Brown Sugar: If you want a healthier option, you can use honey or maple syrup. This will change the flavor slightly, but it’ll still taste great!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch—about 1 teaspoon will do.
Seasonings: You can adjust the oregano and smoked paprika based on your taste. If you want more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes!
How do I ensure my pork chops are juicy and flavorful?
Marinating the pork chops is key to adding flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk well. Make sure the sugar dissolves to avoid graininess.
- Lay the pork chops in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Try to cover every part of the chop.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and let it marinate in the fridge. Overnight is best, but a minimum of 2 hours will work.
- When cooking, don’t rush! Ensure your grill or skillet is preheated well. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This step is crucial for juicy meat!
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time, along with a marinating time of at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor). Cooking the pork chops will take another 10-15 minutes, making it super easy to enjoy tasty pork chops in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. In it, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until everything is well mixed. This marinade is going to pack your pork chops with fantastic flavor!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Next, take your pork chops and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over them, making sure all the chops are nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it into the fridge. Let them marinate for at least 2 hours, or if you have time, overnight works best!
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Cook the pork chops for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and show nice grill marks. Don’t forget to keep an eye on them!
4. Let them Rest and Serve:
After grilling, take the pork chops off the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps to keep them juicy! Once they’ve rested, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley and serve them up with your favorite sides. Enjoy your deliciously marinated pork chops!
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar?
Absolutely! If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
For the best flavor, marinate the pork chops for at least 2 hours, but you can marinate them overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor absorption. Just ensure they don’t exceed 24 hours to avoid a mushy texture.
Can I Freeze the Marinade or Marinated Pork Chops?
Yes, you can freeze both! If you have leftover marinade, it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the marinated pork chops in a resealable bag; just thaw them in the fridge before cooking for the best results.
What Should I Serve with Pork Chops?
Pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, you could also add a grain like couscous or quinoa!
