These grilled lemon herb pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! The refreshing lemon mixed with fragrant herbs makes a tasty combo that everyone will love.
Cooking these chops is a breeze! Just marinate them, toss them on the grill, and you’re ready for a delicious meal that makes you feel like a chef. Who doesn’t love easy and yummy dinner options?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal for grilling as they stay juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops work too, but they may require less cooking time, so keep an eye on them!
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or canola oil can work as alternatives. They won’t alter the flavor too much.
Lemon: Fresh lemons brighten the dish with their tang. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can substitute in a pinch, but fresh is always better for that zing!
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley bring the spirit of the dish alive. If they’re not available, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for each tablespoon called for in the recipe. Just remember, dried herbs pack more punch, so adjust to taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor. If you’re short on garlic, garlic powder can be a substitute; about 1/4 teaspoon equals one clove.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
To grill pork chops that are juicy and packed with flavor, marinating is crucial. When you let the chops soak in the marinade for 1-4 hours, it allows the flavors to penetrate.
- Before grilling, take the pork chops out of the fridge for about 20 minutes. This helps them cook evenly.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, which is key for nice grill marks and retaining juices.
- Avoid pressing down on the chops while grilling. Yes, it might be tempting, but this step ensures they remain tender!
- Finally, let them rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This lets the juices redistribute, making each bite deliciously moist.
How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 1 to 4 hours for marinating depending on how much time you have. After marinating, grilling takes about 10 minutes. Overall, plan for about an hour and a half to enjoy these delicious pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper until blended. This mixture will be the flavorful marinade for the pork chops.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, making sure each chop is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chops marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can, let them soak for 3-4 hours for extra flavor.
3. Get Ready to Grill:
Before grilling, take the pork chops out of the refrigerator about 20 minutes in advance to let them come to room temperature. This helps them cook evenly. While the chops are resting, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade to avoid contamination. Place the chops on the preheated grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the juices run clear. Remember not to press down on the chops while grilling—this keeps them juicy and flavorful!
5. Let Them Rest:
After grilling, remove the pork chops from the grill and transfer them to a plate. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that the juices redistribute, making for tender and moist chops.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your grilled lemon herb pork chops with grilled lemon halves or wedges for a vibrant touch of flavor. Enjoy your delicious, tangy, and herb-infused meal!
Can I Use Bone-in or Boneless Pork Chops?
You can use either! Bone-in chops are juicier and more flavorful, but boneless chops are a great lean option. Just keep in mind that boneless chops may require less cooking time, so check for doneness at 3-4 minutes per side.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops overnight will deepen the flavor even more. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours to prevent the meat from becoming too soft due to the acidity of the lemon.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Lemon Herb Pork Chops?
These pork chops go well with a variety of sides like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. For a lighter option, consider serving them alongside quinoa or a citrusy coleslaw!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring not to overcook them, as they may dry out.
