These basil-garlic grilled pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! Marinated just right, they have a tasty kick that makes them a family favorite.
Whenever I grill these, I can’t help but think about how easy they are to make. Just toss them on the grill and watch the magic happen! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give juicy flavor, but boneless chops work too. If you’re looking for leaner meat, try using chicken breasts as an alternative – they take on marinades well too!
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings brightness. If you’re out, try using parsley or cilantro for a different flavor. Dried basil works in a pinch, but reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that strong flavor! If you only have garlic powder, use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove, knowing the taste will be milder. Roasted garlic can add a sweeter flavor if you prefer.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its rich taste; however, you can use any cooking oil available. Coconut oil or avocado oil would both work nicely as well.
Lemon Juice/Vinegar: Adding acid like lemon juice brightens the marinade. If you don’t have lemon, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be a good swap!
How Do I Grill Perfect Pork Chops Without Drying Them Out?
Getting juicy pork chops on the grill can be tricky, but it’s totally doable! Here’s how to keep them tender:
- Marinate the chops for a few hours. This adds flavor and moisture.
- Take the chops out of the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook evenly.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high; don’t start cooking on a cold grill.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness at 145°F (63°C).
- Rest the chops after grilling for about 3-5 minutes. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is flavorful!
With these tips, you’ll serve up pork chops that are both flavorful and juicy every time!
Basil-Garlic Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or white vinegar (optional, for added brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to marinate the pork chops. After that, you’ll grill them for 10 minutes. So, total time including marinating is approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, but most of that time is hands-off while the flavors come together in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and if you choose, the oregano and lemon juice or vinegar. Stir until everything is combined into a tasty marinade. This mixture will give the pork chops a big punch of flavor!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Next, place the pork chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure they’re all nicely coated. Seal the dish or bag and pop it in the refrigerator. Let those flavors soak in for at least 1 hour, but if you can, give them 2-4 hours for even better taste!
3. Preheat the Grill:
After the pork has marinated, it’s time to get the grill ready! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is around 375-400°F (190-204°C). To keep your pork chops from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade and let any excess drip off—discard any leftover marinade. Grill the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork. Keep an eye on them so they don’t get too charred!
5. Let Them Rest:
Once the pork chops reach the right temperature, take them off the grill and loosely cover them with foil. Allow them to rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps them stay juicy and tender!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the grilled pork chops hot with a garnish of fresh basil leaves or a sprig of rosemary for that extra touch. Dig in and enjoy those tender, flavorful basil-garlic grilled pork chops!
This recipe yields mouthwatering pork chops that are not only delightful in taste but also simple to prepare, perfect for any grilling occasion!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just be sure to keep an eye on the grilling time, as they may cook a bit faster than bone-in chops. Aim for the same internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for anywhere from 1 to 24 hours. Marinating for 2-4 hours is ideal for flavor, but overnight is great if you want to prep ahead of time!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the marinated pork chops on a baking sheet lined with foil for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach the desired internal temperature.
What Should I Serve with These Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of rice or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, consider serving them with steamed vegetables or a quinoa salad.
