These grilled lemon herb pork chops are juicy and flavorful, kissed with a zesty lemon and fresh herbs. Perfect for a summer dinner or any night you want to impress!
Honestly, the bright lemon really makes the pork shine! I love serving these with some easy grilled veggies on the side—what a tasty combo! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for flavor and juiciness. If you have boneless chops, those work too! Just adjust grilling time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: A must for your marinade! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap it with avocado oil.
Lemons: Fresh lemons are key for vibrant flavor. If you’re out, lime juice can be a nice alternative, adding a different zest.
Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the dish. If thyme, rosemary, or parsley are unavailable, Italian seasoning or a blend of dried herbs will work well.
Garlic: For an extra kick, consider using roasted garlic instead of fresh for a sweeter flavor. You could also use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but with the right approach, they can be juicy and tender! Here’s how:
- Marinate properly: Letting the chops sit in the marinade adds moisture and flavor. Aim for at least an hour.
- Preheat the grill: Get your grill hot so you can get nice sear marks without overcooking.
- Temperature matters: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for juicy meat, and let them rest after grilling to retain juices.
By giving attention to these steps, you’ll achieve tasty and tender pork chops every time!
Grilled Lemon Herb Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
- 2 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep and a marinating time of at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours) in the fridge. Grilling takes another 10-15 minutes, so plan on about 1 hour and 25 minutes total before you can eat. Well worth the wait for such flavorful pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, parsley, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. This mixture will not only flavor the pork but also keep it moist while grilling.
2. Marinate 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 well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it into the fridge for at least an hour. If you have time, letting it marinate for up to 4 hours will give even more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). This ensures that you’ll get a nice sear on your pork chops.
4. Prepare the Pork Chops for Grilling:
Remove the pork chops from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the used marinade. This ensures your pork chops won’t be overly saturated or burn on the grill.
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip them carefully and grill for another 4-5 minutes on the other side. You’re looking for nice char marks, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for juicy chops.
6. Rest Before Serving:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for allowing the juices to settle back into the meat, keeping them tender and moist.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your grilled lemon herb pork chops with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. You can also sprinkle extra fresh herbs on top for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite sides!
These juicy, herb-infused pork chops, brightened with zesty lemon notes, will make any meal special. Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used instead of bone-in for this recipe. Just keep in mind they might cook faster, so check for doneness a minute or two early.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! You can substitute with dried herbs. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as fresh since they’re more concentrated. For this recipe, 1 tsp of dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley would work well.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before you use it to ensure everything is well mixed!
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover grilled pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out!