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grilled pork chops with marinade
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5 from 1 vote

Grilled Pork Chop Marinade

This grilled pork chop marinade is a family favorite! Made with just a few fresh ingredients, this lemon herb marinade is my go-to for summer grilling. Packed with flavor and always juicy and tender results.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Marinating1 hour
Course: Main Course, Marinades
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free
Servings: 3 people
Calories: 528kcal
Author: Tania

Equipment

Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • Juice of 1 ½ medium lemons, plus zest zest before juicing
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons fresh herbs: thyme, rosemary, Italian parsley finely chopped
  • ½ tablespoons red chili pepper flakes
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 3 bone-in pork chops or boneless

Instructions

  • Make the marinade: In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, fresh herbs, red chili pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
  • Marinate: Place the pork chops in a large resealable Ziploc bag and add the marinade over the pork, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Seal and let marinate in the fridge for 1 to 2 hours. Tip: Allow a maximum of 2 hours, otherwise the meat may turn too tough.
  • Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Grill for about 4 to 6 minutes, or until it registers at least 145 degrees F in the center. I like to grill pork to about 155 degrees F for a medium-well. See temperatures below.
  • Let the grilled pork chops rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Bone-in vs boneless: Bone-in pork chops are recommended for juiciness, but boneless can be used. Adjust grilling time as they cook faster (usually takes 1 less minute per side for boneless).
  • Marinating time: Marinate pork chops for 1-2 hours. Anything longer will actually make the meat too tough.
  • Exact cooking times will depend on the thickness. Always use a meat thermometer to be sure.
  • Internal temperature for pork:
    • Medium rare: 145 degrees F
    • Medium: 150-155
    • Medium well: 155-160
    • Well-done: 160
  • Other cooking methods:
    • Air fryer: At 400 degrees F for 10 to 12 minutes.
    • Stovetop: Heat oil over high heat and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side (add an extra 1 to 2 minutes if using bone-in). If they are on the thicker side, finish them in a preheated 400 F degree oven for 5 to 10 minutes
    • Bake: At 400 F for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through
 
Substitutions and variations:
  • Olive oil: Canola or vegetable oil.
  • Fresh herbs: If using dried herbs, using ⅓ of the amount as dried are more potent.
 
Disclaimer: Nutritional values (per serving) are approximates only.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pork chop | Calories: 528kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 40g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 24g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 117mg | Sodium: 1282mg | Potassium: 725mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 757IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 66mg | Iron: 2mg