Pork Chop Marinade
Juicy pork chops are enhanced with a tangy soy and lemon marinade, complemented by a hint of chili and sweetness from brown sugar. Perfect for grilling or broiling, this flavorful dish suits casual cookouts or weeknight dinners, offering a balance of savory, citrusy, and spicy notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine soy sauce, lemon juice, chili sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic to make the marinade.
- Place the pork chops in a glass dish and pour the marinade over them.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight, turning occasionally.
- Preheat grill or broiler.
- Grill or broil the pork chops for 8 to 10 minutes, brushing occasionally with reserved marinade.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more chili sauce or even a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. If you don't have fresh lemon juice, bottled juice works in a pinch, but fresh is always best for flavor. You can also substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option. Make sure to marinate the pork chops for at least 4 hours for optimal flavor absorption.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these flavorful pork chops with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Cecil B. De Mille'S Baked Beans, making for a hearty dinner. Consider a side of garlic mashed potatoes or corn on the cob to enhance the meal. A light, citrusy coleslaw can also complement the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pork chops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook, as this can dry them out. For best results, add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chop Marinade contains roughly 293 calories, with 26g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. At about 293 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in pork chops for this marinade?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will work wonderfully with this marinade. Just ensure they are of similar thickness for even cooking. The bone can add additional flavor and moisture during grilling or broiling.
How long should I grill the pork chops if they're thicker than 1 1/4 inches?
If the pork chops are thicker, increase the grilling time to about 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe consumption.
Can I marinate the pork chops for less than overnight?
Yes, if you're short on time, marinating for at least 1-2 hours will still impart good flavor. However, for the best results, marinating overnight allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).