Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Pork Chops are juicy, smoky, and full of flavor—perfect for summer cookouts or an easy weeknight dinner. With a simple marinade and a quick sear on the grill, these chops turn out tender and delicious every time. Pair them with your favorite sides for a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s ready in minutes.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

bone-in or boneless pork chops (about 1 inch thick)olive oilgarlic (minced)lemon juice or apple cider vinegarsoy sauce or Worcestershire saucesaltblack pepperpaprikadried thyme or rosemarybrown sugar (optional for sweetness)

directions

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and brown sugar if using.

Place pork chops in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chops, coating evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to 8 hours in the fridge.

Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Clean and oil the grates.

Remove pork chops from marinade and let excess drip off. Grill for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 30 minutes to 8 hoursGrilling time: 8–10 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes to 8 hours (including marinating)

Variations

Add crushed red pepper for heat.

Use balsamic vinegar instead of lemon juice for a richer flavor.

Top with grilled pineapple or peach slices for a fruity twist.

Brush with BBQ sauce in the last minute of grilling for extra flavor.

Try with bone-in rib chops or thick-cut loin chops for juicier results.

storage/reheating

Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.Best enjoyed fresh to maintain juiciness and texture.

FAQs

Should I use bone-in or boneless pork chops?

Either works, but bone-in chops often stay juicier on the grill.

Can I grill pork chops without marinating?

Yes, but the marinade adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat.

How do I prevent them from drying out?

Don’t overcook—use a meat thermometer and let them rest after grilling.

Can I use a grill pan?

Yes, a cast-iron grill pan on the stovetop works well for indoor cooking.

How thick should pork chops be?

About 1 inch thick is ideal for even cooking and good grill marks.

Can I freeze marinated pork chops?

Yes, freeze in the marinade and thaw overnight before grilling.

Conclusion

Grilled Pork Chops are a classic and crowd-pleasing dish that’s both easy and packed with flavor. With the right seasoning and quick grilling, they turn out juicy and perfectly charred every time. Serve them with your favorite summer sides or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.