Are you tired of bland, dry pork chops that leave you disappointed at the dinner table? Get ready to transform your cooking game with this Quick Easy Pork Chop Marinade that will have your family begging for seconds! In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that's bursting with flavor, combining the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes that will make your taste buds dance with excitement.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, and black pepper until well combined to create the marinade.
- Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring each chop is completely coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor). Turn the chops occasionally to ensure even marinating.
- Remove pork chops from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature.
- Preheat grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat. If using an indoor pan, lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
- Remove pork chops from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Cook pork chops for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness.
- Let the pork chops rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. While 30 minutes works, letting the pork chops sit for up to 4 hours will intensify the flavors.
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork chops rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to check for the perfect 145°F internal temperature. This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked pork every time.
- Resting Matters: Allow the pork chops to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Pan vs. Grill: While this recipe works great on a grill or grill pan, you can also use a cast-iron skillet for equally delicious results.
- Garnish Bonus: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the presentation and add a fresh flavor dimension to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 75mg
