These marinated spicy pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! They’re seasoned with a tasty mix of spices that gives them a nice kick, making them a hit at any meal.
Cooking these chops is super easy! I love grilling them in the summer, and the smell alone will make everyone hungry. Plus, a side of veggies makes it all better! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Using bone-in pork chops adds flavor and moisture during cooking. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too, but watch the cooking time to avoid drying them out.
Olive Oil: This acts as a great base for your marinade. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil or vegetable oil are good alternatives.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient adds tang and helps tenderize the pork. White wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar can also be used, depending on your taste preference.
Smoked Paprika: This spice brings a smoky flavor to the dish. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works, but you might miss that smokiness.
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust to taste! If you prefer milder flavors, cut back to 1/2 teaspoon or use less spicy alternatives like paprika or chili powder.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
The secret to juicy pork chops starts with marinating. This not only flavors the meat but also tenderizes it. Be sure to marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better!
- When grilling, preheat your grill properly. A hot grill gives the chops beautiful grill marks and develops a nice crust.
- Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist when you cut in.
These simple tricks will help you achieve juicy, flavorful pork chops every time!
Marinated Spicy Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for heat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and get the pork chops ready. After marinating, you’ll spend another 10-15 minutes grilling. So, you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes of active cooking time, plus 2 hours (or more) for marinating. If you can, plan to let those chops soak overnight for even better flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey until everything is well combined. This mixture is going to give your pork chops that delicious flavor!
2. Add the Spices:
Next, add the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, oregano (or thyme), and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything together until the marinade is smooth. This is where the magic begins!
3. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Grab a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and place your pork chops inside. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they’re all nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you have the time, letting it soak overnight will really enhance the flavors.
4. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. You can lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking. This step is essential to get that perfect sear!
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the marinade (don’t reuse it!). Grill the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have nice grill marks.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once done, take the pork chops off the grill, tent them with foil, and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy and flavorful!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro if you like, and serve your tasty pork chops hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so keep an eye on them while grilling. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork Chops?
For the best flavor, marinate the pork chops for at least 2 hours. If you can, letting them soak overnight will enhance the taste even more. Just remember to refrigerate during marination to keep them safe!
Can I Adjust the Spiciness Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper and omit the crushed red pepper flakes. You can also substitute with milder spices like regular paprika or simply adjust to your taste preference.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, checking until heated through to avoid drying them out!
