These grilled rosemary pork chops are a tasty treat! The juicy meat is flavored with fragrant rosemary and garlic, making each bite delicious. Perfect for summer barbecues!
I love flipping these chops on the grill. The smell of rosemary in the air is mouthwatering! Serve with your favorite sides, and wow your friends at dinner! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are excellent as the bone adds flavor and helps keep them juicy. If you prefer boneless, that’s fine too, but adjust cooking time since they cook faster.
Fresh Rosemary: This herb gives the dish a wonderful aroma. If fresh isn’t available, you can use 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary. Just remember dried is more concentrated, so use less!
Olive Oil: A staple for marinating! You can swap with avocado oil or melted butter for different flavors. I personally love using a good-quality olive oil for its taste.
Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a nice sweetness. If you don’t have it, you can use red wine vinegar mixed with a pinch of sugar for a similar effect.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy pork chops relies on marinating and cooking time. Marinating enriches flavor and tenderizes the meat. Here’s how:
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but aim for 1-2 hours for maximum flavor.
- Ensure the grill is hot before placing the chops down. This creates a nice sear.
- Don’t press the chops while they cook! This releases juices, making them dry.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; 145°F (63°C) is perfect!
- Let them rest after grilling! This helps keep the juices inside.
By following these tips, your grilled pork chops will turn out beautifully every time!
Grilled Rosemary Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped, plus 4 sprigs for garnish
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
- Steamed broccoli or your favorite side vegetables (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to marinate. Cooking on the grill should take around 8-10 minutes. So, give yourself about 50 minutes total if you plan to marinate for 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, let them sit for 1-2 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates with some oil to help prevent sticking.
4. Prepare the Chops for Grilling:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade for safety.
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remember, don’t press down on the chops while they cook; this will keep them juicy!
6. Add Aroma:
In the last minute of grilling, place a sprig of fresh rosemary on each chop for extra aroma and flavor.
7. Let Them Rest:
When fully cooked, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier chop.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pork chops warm, garnished with grilled rosemary sprigs. If you like, add steamed broccoli or your favorite side vegetables. For a fresh touch, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the pork chops before eating.
Enjoy your flavorful and tender grilled rosemary pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops work great as well! Just keep in mind that they cook faster than bone-in chops, so adjust the grilling time to about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to retain moisture.
Can I Marinate the Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops overnight can enhance the flavor significantly. Just be mindful of the salt content in the soy sauce to avoid over-seasoning!
What Should I Serve With Grilled Rosemary Pork Chops?
These pork chops are delicious served with steamed broccoli, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You could also pair them with a light grain like quinoa or rice for a complete meal!