This pork chop marinade is super simple and packed with flavor! Made with soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, it brings out the best in your pork chops.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are juicier, while boneless are easier to handle. I prefer bone-in because of the added flavor, but both work well!
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds saltiness and depth. If you’re gluten-free, try tamari or coconut aminos for a similar taste.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. You can substitute it with canola or avocado oil, depending on what you have on hand.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It adds tanginess. If you’re out, white vinegar or lemon juice can be used instead, though they’ll change the flavor slightly.
Honey or Brown Sugar: For sweetness, I love honey! You can swap it for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different twist.
Spices: Thyme and rosemary are fantastic, but you can use Italian seasoning as a shortcut or dried oregano if that’s what you have. They still bring great flavor.
How Do You Make Sure Your Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy pork chops lies in marinating! Give the pork enough time to soak up those delicious flavors. For the best results, aim for at least 2 hours—overnight is ideal. The acid in the vinegar helps tenderize the meat, ensuring it’s not just flavorful, but also tender.
- Whisk the marinade ingredients together until well combined.
- Feel free to taste the marinade before adding the pork. Adjust sweetness or acidity to your liking.
- Ensure the pork chops are fully coated in the marinade, so every bite is full of flavor.
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
For The Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for marinating—overnight is even better! The total cooking time is around 10-12 minutes, making it a quick yet flavorful meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, take a whisk and combine the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and the sweetener of your choice (honey or brown sugar). Add the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt to the bowl. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This is your tasty marinade!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Grab a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and place the pork chops inside. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are fully coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish. It’s best to let them sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, let them marinate overnight for even more 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 and throw away any leftover marinade—no need to reuse it! Grill or sear the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once cooked, remove them from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color if you like. Serve those delicious pork chops warm and enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Vinegar in This Marinade?
Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar adds a nice sweetness, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly, so choose one that complements your taste preferences!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops for Longer Than Overnight?
It’s best to stick to a maximum of 24 hours for marinating. Marinating for too long can cause the meat to become too soft or mushy due to the acidity in the marinade. If you’re short on time, even an hour will impart great flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Marinade?
If you have leftover marinade that hasn’t come into contact with the raw meat, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. However, never reuse marinade that has been with raw pork. For leftovers after cooking, store any cooked pork chops in the fridge within two hours in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
What Can I Serve with These Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad. For a complete meal, add a side of rice or quinoa to soak up the flavors!
