This Pork Chop Marinade is the secret to juicy and flavorful chops! Made with simple ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of vinegar, it packs a tasty punch.
I love letting the pork soak in this marinade for a few hours—it’s like giving the meat a warm hug! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue with friends!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Soy Sauce: This is the base for the marinade, adding a salty depth. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use tamari. Or try coconut aminos for a sweeter, less salty flavor.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works here. If you need a healthier choice, you can swap it for honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind the taste will change slightly.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings great flavor, but any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil will also do the job. You’ll just miss that hint of fruitiness.
Apple Cider Vinegar: For a different flavor, white vinegar or red wine vinegar can substitute. I prefer apple cider for its mellow tartness that complements pork well.
Dijon Mustard: This helps emulsify the marinade and adds depth. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard can work too, though I find Dijon the best option.
Spices: Garlic and onion powders, thyme, and paprika enhance the flavor. If you’re out of dried thyme, try rosemary or Italian seasoning. Fresh versions of these herbs work beautifully, too!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
Cooking pork chops can be tricky; you want them juicy, not dry. Here are some tips:
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer (2-4 hours) really helps tenderize and flavor them.
- Preheat your grill or skillet properly; medium-high heat is key for a nice sear.
- Don’t skip resting the pork chops after cooking! This lets the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
With these steps, you’ll have perfectly juicy and flavorful pork chops every time.
Quick & Easy Pork Chop Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 pork chops (bone-in or boneless)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This marinade takes about 10 minutes to prepare and you should allow at least 30 minutes to marinate the pork chops (2 to 4 hours is even better for flavor!). Cooking the pork chops will take an additional 8-10 minutes. Overall, you can have delicious marinated pork chops ready in about 50 minutes, depending on the marinating time you choose.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Mix until everything is well combined. This creates a sweet and tangy base that will add loads of flavor to your pork chops!
2. Add the Spices:
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper to the marinade. Stir the mixture until all the spices are fully incorporated. This step will make your marinade aromatic and packed with flavor.
3. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you can, let them marinate for 2 to 4 hours to enhance the flavor even more!
4. 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 discard any leftover marinade. Cook the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures they’re cooked through but still juicy!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy. Serve them alongside your favorite sides, like grilled vegetables or mashed potatoes. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Vinegar Instead of Apple Cider Vinegar?
Absolutely! If you’re out of apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white vinegar or red wine vinegar. Just keep in mind that using white vinegar will make the marinade a bit sharper, while red wine vinegar could add a slightly different flavor profile. Adjust to your taste!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Yes, marinating the pork chops overnight is a great idea! It allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more thoroughly. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity from the marinade can change the texture of the pork.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Marinade?
If you have leftover marinade that was not in contact with the raw pork, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Use it as a dipping sauce or drizzle it on your cooked pork chops. Always ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before consuming!
Can I Use Chicken or Beef Instead of Pork Chops?
Yes, this marinade works well with chicken and beef! If using chicken, make sure to adjust the cooking time as it may require longer to fully cook. For beef, opt for cuts like flank or sirloin that can benefit from marinating. Enjoy experimenting!
