These marinated spicy pork chops are packed with flavor! The easy marinade combines spices, garlic, and a little kick to make each bite exciting and juicy.
I love firing these up on the grill—there’s something special about the smell. Serve them with some grilled veggies, and you’re all set for a tasty meal that’s sure to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Using bone-in pork chops adds more flavor and juiciness compared to boneless. If you have boneless chops, they will work too, just reduce the cooking time slightly.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the marinade stick. You can substitute with vegetable oil or avocado oil if you’re looking for a different flavor profile or don’t have olive oil on hand.
Apple Cider Vinegar or Lime Juice: Both give a nice tang. If you don’t have them, white vinegar or lemon juice can serve as a substitute, although it might alter the flavor a bit.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both help balance the spice. If you want to make this low-sugar, consider using maple syrup or a sugar substitute. I’ve even used agave for a different sweetness!
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: This is where the spice comes from. Feel free to adjust the amount to cater to your heat level. If you want less heat, try using sweet paprika instead.
How Do I Keep My Pork Chops Juicy on the Grill?
A common challenge is ensuring pork chops remain juicy when grilled. Here’s how to master it:
- Marinating for several hours (or overnight) infuses flavor and moisture.
- Let the chops reach room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook more evenly.
- Grill on medium-high heat to create a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
- Quickly cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, checking with a meat thermometer to reach 145°F (63°C).
- Let them rest for a few minutes post-grilling. This redistributes the juices and makes every bite tender.
With just a bit of attention to these details, you’ll achieve perfectly succulent pork chops that are full of flavor!
Marinated Spicy Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lime juice
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (chopped)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time to make the marinade and set the pork chops. You’ll want to marinate them for at least 2 hours, but preferably 4-6 hours or overnight for the best flavor. Cooking on the grill will take about 10-12 minutes. In total, you should set aside about 6 hours, including marination, but most of that is hands-off time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar or lime juice, minced garlic, honey, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and ground cumin (if using). Mix it all until well combined; this mixture will flavor your pork chops wonderfully.
2. Marinade 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 they are all well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours; for an even bolder flavor, aim for 4-6 hours or overnight!
3. Preheat and Prepare:
About 30 minutes before cooking, take the pork chops out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature. This helps them cook evenly. Meanwhile, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates for a nice sear.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off before you discard the rest. Grill the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a nice char, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Try not to overcook them, as they need to stay juicy!
5. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for maximum tenderness.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Spoon any flavorful juices from the plate over the pork chops. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy! They pair great with sides like grilled vegetables or rice.
This recipe yields tender, spicy pork chops with a deliciously charred crust and fresh herb finish. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they typically cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate the pork chops for a minimum of 2 hours, but for the best flavor, marinate them for 4-6 hours or even overnight. Just make sure not to exceed 24 hours, as the texture can become mushy due to the acidic marinade.
What Should I Serve With Marinated Spicy Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to avoid drying them out.
