These grilled rosemary pork chops are juicy and full of flavor! The combination of fresh rosemary and garlic makes them smell amazing while cooking.
I love how easy it is to throw these on the grill for a quick dinner. Pair them with some veggies, and you’ve got a tasty meal—no fuss required!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add flavor and moisture. You can also use boneless chops if that’s what you have, but be sure to adjust cooking times as they may cook faster.
Fresh Rosemary: Rosemary is key to the flavor of this dish. If fresh isn’t available, dried rosemary can work in a pinch, but use less since it’s more concentrated. I usually crush the dried leaves slightly to release more flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the meat. Feel free to substitute with any neutral oil, like canola or avocado oil if you’re looking for something lighter.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is my go-to for the best taste. If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, garlic powder can work, but I recommend starting with less since it’s stronger than fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Pork Chops for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is crucial for juicy and flavorful pork chops. Start by mixing your marinade well. Here’s how to make it really effective:
- Allow the pork chops to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For stronger flavor, let them sit for 1-2 hours.
- Make sure to rub the marinade all over the chops, getting into the crevices for even coverage.
- Don’t forget to let excess marinade drip off before grilling. This prevents burning and allows for that nice char.
Trust me, the flavor will really penetrate the meat when done right!
Grilled Rosemary Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary, plus extra for garnish
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for a light zest)
- Fresh parsley or other greens, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. Remember to marinate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes—1-2 hours is ideal! So, all in all, you’ll be looking at about 1 hour if you include the marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped leaves from 2 sprigs of rosemary, kosher salt, and black pepper. If you want a hint of brightness, add the lemon juice and mix everything together until well combined.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Rub the marinade generously over both sides of the pork chops. Make sure every inch gets coated! Once you’ve done that, cover the chops and pop them into the refrigerator. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or better yet, for 1-2 hours for extra flavor.
3. Heat the Grill:
While the pork chops are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). This ensures they get that beautiful sear!
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
After marinating, take the pork chops out and let any excess marinade drip off. Place them on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely seared and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Infuse More Flavor:
In the last minute of grilling, place a whole sprig of rosemary on each chop. This will add a wonderful aromatic touch to your dish!
6. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This step is key to keeping them juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with extra rosemary sprigs and serve alongside some fresh greens or your favorite vegetables. Enjoy your fragrant and juicy grilled rosemary pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just remember they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so adjust your grilling time to about 3-4 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Rosemary?
If you don’t have fresh rosemary, you can use dried rosemary. Just use about 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary since it is more concentrated. You may want to crush it slightly to enhance flavor release.
How Do I Know When Pork Chops Are Done?
The best way to tell if pork chops are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). After cooking, let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juices.
Can I Marinate the Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as the meat can become too salty or mushy from the marinade over time.
