This marinade gives pork chops a tasty boost! With simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and honey, it brings out the flavors in every bite.
Marinating is a breeze, and the chops come out super juicy. I whip this up when I want to impress dinner guests or just treat myself on a weeknight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps carry the flavors. You can use canola or avocado oil if olive oil isn’t on hand. I’ve found that avocado oil lends a nice subtle flavor, too.
Soy Sauce: It gives the marinade a savory depth. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. I often choose low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt level.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess. White wine vinegar or rice vinegar can be good substitutes. I love the fruity notes of apple cider for a unique twist.
Dijon Mustard: It contributes a bit of spice and creaminess. You can swap with yellow mustard if you prefer a milder flavor or even whole grain mustard for texture.
Herbs & Spices: Dried thyme and smoked paprika enhance flavor beautifully. If you don’t have thyme, consider dried oregano or rosemary. Paprika can be replaced with regular paprika or omitted if you’re not into smoky flavors.
Brown Sugar: This is optional for sweetness. You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute if you want to keep it natural. I skip it sometimes, depending on my mood!
How Can I Get the Best Flavor from My Marinade?
The key to a successful marinade is allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat fully. Marinating for at least one hour is a must, but if you want maximum flavor, go for 4 hours or even overnight if you can.
- Make sure to whisk the marinade well to combine all the ingredients.
- When placing the pork chops in the bag or dish, really coat them with the marinade. The more surface area covered, the better the flavor!
- Remember to discard the leftover marinade to prevent cross-contamination. Always grill or cook the meat until it reaches 145°F (63°C) for safety.
Resting the pork chops is also important. It allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy. Enjoy your meal!
The Best Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This marinade recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. For the best flavor, let the pork chops marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, let them soak for up to 4 hours or even overnight. Cooking the pork chops will take about 10 minutes. So, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, smoked paprika, brown sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined into a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the refrigerator. Let the pork chops marinate for at least 1 hour. For even better flavor, aim for 4 hours or overnight.
3. Cook the Pork Chops:
When you are ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Take the pork chops out of the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Grill or cook the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have beautiful grill marks. Once done, remove them from heat and let them rest for about 5 minutes. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious pork chops!
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar in This Marinade?
Absolutely! If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or even balsamic vinegar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that different vinegars may slightly alter the taste of the marinade.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for as little as 1 hour, but for best results, aim for at least 4 hours or overnight. However, avoid marinating for longer than 24 hours, as the meat can become too soft from the acidity of the marinade.
Can I Store Leftover Marinade?
It’s best to discard any leftover marinade after using it on raw pork to avoid cross-contamination. However, if it hasn’t come into contact with the meat, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir or shake before using!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Marinated Pork Chops?
You can cook marinated pork chops on a grill, skillet, or even in the oven. Just make sure to preheat your cooking surface, and always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If using an oven, a temperature of 400°F (200°C) works well—bake them for about 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget the resting time afterward for juicy chops!
