These Basil-Garlic Grilled Pork Chops are super tasty and easy to make! The blend of fresh basil and garlic gives a wonderful flavor, making your meal feel special.
When I grill these chops, my whole house smells amazing. They’re so juicy that we can’t get enough! Pair them with a simple salad for a nice dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops add flavor and juiciness due to the bone. If you prefer, boneless chops can work too, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Basil: Fresh basil is the star here! If you can’t find fresh basil, dried basil can substitute in a pinch; use about one teaspoon. However, fresh really brings out the dish’s flavor!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for a strong flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can work too, but use less (about 1/4 teaspoon) since it’s more concentrated.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for a rich flavor. You can swap it with avocado oil or even a light vegetable oil if you prefer.
Lemon Juice: This is optional, but a splash of lemon juice enhances the flavors. If you don’t have lemon on hand, balsamic vinegar can also add a nice kick.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get them juicy every time! Start by marinating them; this adds flavor and moisture.
- Let the chops sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes—longer if you can. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the grill well. A hot grill gives those nice sear marks and prevents sticking.
- Avoid flipping the chops too often; only turn them when the grill markings are clear, usually after 4-5 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. When it hits 145°F, they’re perfect! Letting them rest afterward allows juices to redistribute.
With these tips, your Basil-Garlic Grilled Pork Chops will turn out tender and full of flavor!
Basil-Garlic Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for grilling
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and a slight smoky flavor)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate. Additionally, you’ll need around 10-12 minutes for grilling. Overall, you should set aside about 1 hour to make these delicious pork chops, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by mixing your marinade. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped basil, minced garlic, lemon juice (if you’re using it), salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together until well combined. This marinade will infuse your pork chops with fantastic flavors!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Next, take your pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better. Rub both sides of the pork chops generously with the basil-garlic marinade you just made. Place the marinated chops in a dish or a zip-top bag and let them sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the pork chops are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to ensure your grill is hot enough to get those beautiful grill marks on the meat! Brush the grill grates with a little olive oil to prevent the chops from sticking.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
After preheating, place the pork chops on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Once you see nice grill marks, flip the chops over and grill for another 4-5 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork!
5. Rest the Chops:
Once the pork chops are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This will help keep them juicy and flavorful, as it allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Place the pork chops on plates and garnish with fresh basil leaves. For a little extra flavor, you can drizzle some of the leftover herb marinade or juices from the grill over the chops. Enjoy your delicious Basil-Garlic Grilled Pork Chops!
Happy grilling!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used but remember they may cook faster. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness at about 3-4 minutes per side.
How Long Can I Marinate the Pork Chops?
You can marinate them for at least 30 minutes but up to 2 hours for the best flavor. Just avoid marinating longer than 4 hours, as the acidity can start to break down the meat too much.
What Should I Serve with the Pork Chops?
These grilled pork chops pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even some garlic mashed potatoes. You can also serve them with a light pasta dish for a more filling meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep them moist.