These Grilled Italian Pork Chops are bursting with flavor! They are marinated with tasty herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon. Just grill them up for a delicious meal!
I love how easy they are to make! Just a quick marinade, and then they’re ready to hit the grill. Perfect for summer nights and easy enough for any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and juiciness. If you can’t find them, boneless chops work too but watch the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes really enhance the dish. You can substitute with cherry tomatoes for a sweeter flavor, or grilled bell peppers for a different twist.
Onions: I love using yellow onions for their mild sweetness. Red onions are a nice alternative if you want a bit more bite.
Fresh Herbs: Basil brings a beautiful aroma but if you don’t have fresh, use 1 tablespoon dried basil instead. Trust me; the flavor still shines!
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. You can switch it out with red wine vinegar for a different taste, but it will be less sweet.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep pork chops juicy and packed with flavor, marinating is key. The marinade’s acid, from balsamic vinegar and lemon juice, tenderizes the meat.
- Mix your marinade well and let the chops soak for at least 1 hour, or even better, up to 4 hours.
- Preheat your grill properly before putting the meat on; this helps sear the outside and lock in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; aim for 145°F (63°C) for a juicy chop!
Let them rest after cooking; this helps the juices redistribute for a tender bite. Enjoy your grilling!
Grilled Italian Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
For the Veggies:
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced into rings
For the Marinade:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh sprigs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour for marinating, but I recommend letting the pork chops marinate for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor. Cooking them on the grill will take about 10-12 minutes. So, overall, you’re looking at approximately 1.5 to 4 hours total, depending on your marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s nicely blended.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they are completely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour—2 to 4 hours is even better for the flavor to soak in!
3. Prepare the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot to give those pork chops a great sear!
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and nice grill marks.
5. Add the Veggies:
During the last few minutes of grilling, place a slice of onion and a slice of tomato on top of each pork chop. This will add even more flavor as they cook together!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the pork chops are cooked through, take them off the grill. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil and drizzle with a bit of extra olive oil or the leftover marinade (make sure to boil it first if using as a drizzle for safety).
7. Let Rest and Serve:
Allow the pork chops to rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy! If you want, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pretty presentation.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your warm Grilled Italian Pork Chops and savor all the delicious flavors!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can substitute it with 1 tablespoon of dried basil. While fresh herbs are more vibrant in flavor, dried herbs will still give your dish a nice Italian touch!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight can actually enhance the flavor even more. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the meat can become too salty or mushy from the marinade.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help retain moisture.
