Grilled pork loin chops are juicy and packed with flavor. They cook quickly on the grill, making them a perfect choice for a tasty weeknight dinner!
I love how easy they are to prepare—just season, grill, and enjoy! They are great with a side of veggies or a fresh salad. Your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin Chops: The star of this dish! Choose chops that are about 1 inch thick for the best results. If pork isn’t available, you can substitute with boneless chicken thighs, though cooking times will vary.
Olive Oil: This helps to keep the chops moist and adds flavor. If you’re looking for an alternative, avocado oil is a high-heat option, or you can use any neutral flavored oil.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a strong flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will do. Use about 1/4 teaspoon in place of each clove.
Herbs (Rosemary & Thyme): Fresh herbs are great but dried herbs work well too! For dried, use about a third of the amount. Don’t stress too much about having precise measurements; cooking should feel free!
Lemon Juice or Apple Cider Vinegar: Either works well to brighten the dish! If unavailable, white vinegar or even a splash of vinegar-based salad dressing could sub in.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks on My Pork Chops?
Getting those impressive grill marks is easier than you think! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot — around 400°F (200°C) — before adding the chops. A hot grill helps achieve those marks.
- Don’t Move the Chops: Once the chops are placed on the grill, resist the urge to flip them too soon. Let them grill for 4-5 minutes before turning.
- Rotate for Marks: For crosshatch grill marks, after a few minutes on one side, rotate the chop 90 degrees before flipping it over.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a thermometer to check for doneness. They should reach 145°F (63°C) to be perfectly cooked and juicy.
Following these steps will leave you with chops that not only look great but taste fantastic too!
Grilled Pork Loin Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork loin chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried rosemary or fresh finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh finely chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon or 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for marinating)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey (optional, for slight caramelization)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for cooking, plus an optional marinating time of 30 minutes to 2 hours. Overall, you can have delicious grilled pork loin chops ready in under an hour, or a little longer if you opt for a longer marinating time. Perfect for a quick yet flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade (Optional)
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar), brown sugar (or honey), salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is blended together.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops
Put the pork chops in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over them, making sure to coat each chop evenly. If you have time, cover and refrigerate the chops for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1-2 hours to enhance the flavor. If you’re in a hurry, let them marinate for at least 15 minutes!
3. Preheat the Grill
While the chops are marinating, heat your grill to medium-high, which is about 400°F (200°C). Clean the grill grates and oil them lightly to keep the pork from sticking.
4. Grill the Pork Chops
Take the chops out of the marinade and allow excess to drip off. Place them on the hot grill. Be careful to not overcrowd the grill—leave some space between each chop.
5. Cook Time
Grill for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. You’re looking for the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C); use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy. You want beautiful grill marks and a delicious char!
6. Rest the Chops
Once cooked, transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your grilled pork loin chops alongside grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or any of your favorite side dishes for a complete meal. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the satisfaction of a meal well done!
This recipe will give you nicely charred, flavorful pork loin chops that are juicy inside. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your grilling skills! 😊
Can I Use Bone-In Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork loin chops can enhance the flavor even more. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly. Ensure they still reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for the best results.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No worries! If you’re missing some spices, you can substitute with Italian seasoning for a quick mix of flavors, or simply use salt and pepper. Cooking is all about adjusting to what you have on hand!
Can I Cook These Chops in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated chops on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until they reach the desired internal temperature. Just keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in a skillet over low heat to keep them juicy!
