These marinated spicy pork chops are sure to tickle your taste buds! The blend of spices adds a nice kick, while the marinade keeps them juicy and flavorful.
Grilling these is a blast, and the smell alone will have everyone rushing to the table! I love serving them with a side of veggies for a tasty dinner that feels special but is easy to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Choose bone-in chops for extra flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, boneless chops work well too. For a lean option, you can use pork loin or tenderloin, but they may need careful cooking to avoid drying out.
Olive Oil: This gives a nice richness to the marinade. If you’re out, any mild oil like canola or vegetable oil can be used. If you want a unique flavor, try avocado oil!
Apple Cider Vinegar: It adds a tangy taste that helps tenderize the meat. Lemon juice is a great substitute for a brighter flavor. You can even use balsamic vinegar for a sweeter touch.
Spices: Smoked paprika and chili powder bring flavor and heat. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will do, though you might miss some smokiness. Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
Brown Sugar or Honey: This adds a hint of sweetness and balances the heat. If you’re avoiding sugar, use a sugar substitute like maple syrup or leave it out entirely!
How Can I Get The Best Flavor From My Marinade?
The key to flavorful pork chops lies in the marinade and the marinating time. A good marinade not only flavors the meat but also helps it stay juicy. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix your marinade well before adding the pork. Make sure all ingredients are combined for even flavoring.
- Marinate the pork for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This allows the spices and acidity to properly penetrate the meat.
- When cooking, discard the marinade to prevent any contamination from raw meat. Brush the chops with a little oil to ensure they don’t stick to the grill.
Always let the chops rest after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite juicy and delicious!
How to Make Marinated Spicy Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey (optional, for slight sweetness)
For Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 2 hours for marinating (or overnight for best results). You’ll spend around 10 minutes grilling them, resulting in juicy, flavorful pork chops in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, oregano, and brown sugar or honey until fully combined. This aromatic blend will really enhance the flavor of the pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chops, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to ensure the pork chops don’t stick.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade to prevent contamination. Place the pork chops on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and they have lovely grill marks.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them even juicier. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if you like. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful, spicy pork chops!
Perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, these Marinated Spicy Pork Chops are sure to impress!
Can I Use Bone-in Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe and can enhance the flavor and juiciness. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if they are thicker than 1 inch.
What Do I Do If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute apple cider vinegar with lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor. Balsamic vinegar is another good option if you want a hint of sweetness in the marinade.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave them or warm them gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Freeze Marinated Pork Chops?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated pork chops! Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container before the cooking step and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
