Grilled pork loin chops are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick dinner, they cook up nicely on the grill and have those amazing char marks we all love!
Honestly, who can resist that delicious smoky taste? I usually marinate them for a few hours, and then it’s just grilling and enjoying with friends. Easy peasy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin Chops: These are the star of the dish! Look for thick cuts, around 1 inch. If you can’t find loin chops, you can use boneless pork chops. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since they can be thinner.
Olive Oil: This helps the marinade stick and adds flavor. You can replace it with canola or vegetable oil if you’re looking for a neutral taste.
Soy Sauce: This gives a great umami punch. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Honey/Maple Syrup: Both add sweetness, balancing out the salt. You can use brown sugar or agave syrup in a pinch, but consider adjusting the quantity for desired sweetness.
Smoked Paprika: I love using this for a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, but you won’t get that smoky taste. You might also add a touch of chipotle powder for some heat.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Full of Flavor?
The key to juicy pork chops lies in three main steps: marinating, grilling, and resting.
- Marinating: Allow the chops to sit in the marinade for at least 1 hour. Longer marinating (up to 4 hours) enhances the flavor!
- Grilling: Preheat your grill well before adding the chops. This helps create a nice sear. Cook on medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach 145°F (63°C).
- Resting: After grilling, let the chops rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, making each bite moist and delicious.
Follow these tips, and you’ll enjoy perfectly grilled pork loin chops every time! Happy grilling! 😊
How to Make Grilled Pork Loin Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork loin chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as thyme or rosemary)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to marinate. After marinating, grilling takes about 10 minutes. In total, you can expect about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish, including the resting time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cumin (if you’re using it). Whisk the ingredients together until you have a smooth marinade. This is where the flavor begins!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take the pork loin chops and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring each piece is well-coated in the flavorful mix. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours. The longer, the better—this allows the yummy flavors to soak in!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Don’t forget to clean and oil your grill grates to keep the pork from sticking. A little oil goes a long way!
4. Grill the Chops:
After marinating, take the pork chops out of the bag or dish. Shake off any extra marinade but don’t wipe them dry! Place the chops directly on the grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want a nice sear and grill marks, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for juicy pork.
5. Let Them Rest:
Once grilled, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This step is essential to help keep the juices inside the meat, making every bite delicious.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish the pork chops with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra touch. Serve them warm with your favorite sides, whether it’s grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad. Enjoy your meal!
Now you’re ready to impress your family and friends with these perfectly grilled, flavorful pork loin chops! 🍽️
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will add a bit more flavor and moisture. Just be mindful that they might take a couple of extra minutes to cook through, so check for a temperature of 145°F (63°C) before removing them from the grill.
What Can I Substitute for Honey or Maple Syrup?
If you don’t have honey or maple syrup, brown sugar is a great substitute! You can also use agave syrup or even a homemade simple syrup made from sugar and water for a touch of sweetness in the marinade.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chops?
For the best flavor, marinate the chops for at least 1 hour, but you can let them sit for up to 4 hours. Just be cautious not to go longer than that, as the meat can become too salty from the soy sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist.
