This marinade will take your pork chops from good to great! With a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness, it adds delicious flavor that you’ll love.
I can’t help but slather on that marinade, especially for a barbecue. Trust me, once you try it, your taste buds will be singing! 🌟
Making this marinade is super easy—just mix the ingredients and let the chops soak for a while. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great because they have extra flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops will work, but keep an eye on cooking time as they might cook faster.
Soy Sauce: This is essential for that savory depth. If you’re watching your sodium intake, go for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Olive Oil: This helps tenderize the meat. Canola oil or avocado oil are good substitutes if you prefer a neutral flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It adds acidity and brightness to the marinade. If you’re out, white vinegar or lemon juice can also provide a similar tang.
Brown Sugar: It balances out the saltiness from the soy sauce. You can swap it for honey or maple syrup, just use a bit less since they are sweeter.
Spices: Garlic, onion powder, pepper, paprika, and thyme make your marinade flavorful. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices. I love adding a pinch of cayenne for some heat!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor with My Marinade?
The key to a delicious marinade is letting the pork chops soak long enough for the flavors to really get in there. Here are some tips:
- Whisk all the marinade ingredients together well to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Refrigerate the pork chops in the marinade for at least 1 hour, but overnight is better—it helps the chops absorb maximum flavor.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly to prevent air exposure, which can dry out the meat.
- Always discard the marinade after using. It’s best not to reuse it to avoid food safety risks.
With these tips, your pork chops should be incredibly tasty and juicy!
How to Make 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
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time to make the marinade and get the pork chops ready. After marinating, you’ll need around 10-15 minutes for grilling, plus a little time to let the chops rest. For the best flavor, aim to marinate the chops for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Keep mixing until everything is well combined and the sugar has dissolved a bit.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take your pork chops and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure each one is nicely coated. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly, and if you’re using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. Pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or if you have time, let it marinate overnight for the best flavor.
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade (you don’t want that on your grill!). Grill the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (65°C). Use a meat thermometer to check! Once done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, sprinkle the pork chops with freshly chopped parsley to add a nice touch. Serve them warm and enjoy your tasty, marinated pork chops! They’re great on their own or alongside your favorite side dishes!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness at around 3-4 minutes per side to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, coconut aminos or tamari (for a gluten-free option) are great substitutes. They will provide a similar flavor profile, with coconut aminos being slightly sweeter and less salty.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops for Longer?
Yes, you can marinate the pork chops for up to 24 hours! Just keep in mind that if you marinate them too long (over 24 hours), the meat can become too salty or mushy due to the acidity. Aim for 4-12 hours for the best flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
