Grilled Pork Loin Chops are juicy and tender, perfect for any barbecue! Just season them well and toss them on the grill for a delightful smoky flavor.
I love how easy they are to prepare. Plus, they look great on a plate! Serve them with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal everyone will enjoy. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Loin Chops: Look for chops about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. They are juicy and perfect for grilling. If you can’t find loin chops, you can use rib chops or shoulder chops as alternatives.
Olive Oil: This is essential for the marinade. If you prefer, you can substitute with avocado oil or vegetable oil, which have a neutral flavor and high smoke point.
Smoked Paprika: Gives a wonderful smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder will work, just remember that the spice level might change a bit.
Honey or Brown Sugar: These add a hint of sweetness and help with caramelization. If you’re looking for a low-sugar option, try using maple syrup or leaving it out entirely.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Loin Chops are Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating your pork loin chops is key to enhancing their flavor and keeping them moist when grilling. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Generously coat both sides of the pork loin chops with the marinade.
- Allow them to marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or ideally in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. This deeper infusion will make a noticeable difference.
Also, remember that allowing the chops to rest after grilling (about 5 minutes) helps the juices settle, preventing them from running out when you cut into the meat. Enjoy the process!
Grilled Pork Loin Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork loin chops, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (for slight sweetness and caramelization)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 10-15 minutes for grilling. Make sure to allow at least 30 minutes for marinating (or up to 4 hours) for the best flavor. All in all, you’ll be enjoying your delicious pork loin chops in about 45-60 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, onion powder, dried thyme, oregano, and honey or brown sugar if you’re using it. Stir well until everything is nicely blended, creating a flavorful marinade for your pork chops.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Rub the marinade generously over both sides of the pork loin chops. Make sure each chop is well-coated. Cover and let them marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours. The longer, the better the flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the meat is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). Don’t forget to clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Keeping the grill hot will help achieve that nice sear on the outside.
4. Grill the Chops:
Place the marinated pork loin chops on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip the chops once and grill for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness. Look for those delightful grill marks and a caramelized exterior.
5. Let Them Rest:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This step helps the juices settle back into the meat, making every bite juicy and flavorful.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your grilled pork loin chops with fresh thyme sprigs for an extra touch. Serve them warm alongside your favorite sides, like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops will work great in this recipe. They tend to have a bit more flavor and stay juicy while cooking. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may need a minute or two longer than boneless chops to reach the right internal temperature.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika can be used instead. If you want to retain some smokiness, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of liquid smoke to mimic that flavor. Adjust according to your taste preferences!
Can I Marinate the Chops Overnight?
Yes, marinating the pork loin chops overnight is a fantastic idea! It will enhance the flavor and tenderness even further. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as it may start to alter the texture of the meat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork loin chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the stove or microwave gently to avoid drying them out. A splash of broth or water can be added to keep them moist while reheating.
