These basil-garlic grilled pork chops are packed with flavor! Juicy, tender meat gets a tasty twist from fresh basil and garlic, making it a main dish that everyone will love.
Grilling these chops brings out the yummy smoky taste that makes the summer feel even better. I always serve mine with a side of veggies for a colorful plate—who doesn’t love a pretty meal? 🌿🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are juicy and flavorful, but you can use boneless chops if that’s what you have. Just adjust cooking time as they may cook faster.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds wonderful flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove) instead. However, fresh is always best!
Fresh Basil: This herb is key for its bright flavors. If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil (about 1 tablespoon) works too, though the taste will be a bit different.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for its taste, but you can substitute with vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks and Juicy Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops takes some attention, but it’s worth it! Start by heating the grill to medium-high and oiling the grates to avoid sticking. This will give you those lovely grill marks.
- Marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes. The longer, the better, as it enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- When grilling, resist the urge to flip them too often. Let them cook for 4-5 minutes on each side for perfect browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. 145°F (63°C) is the sweet spot for juicy chops!
- After grilling, let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite tender.
How to Make 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 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. Grilling will take about 10 minutes, bringing your total time to around 50 minutes. It’s all worth the wait for those delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped basil, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Mix everything together until it’s well combined to create a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and rub the marinade all over both sides, making sure they’re fully coated. Once done, cover the bowl and refrigerate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will help the flavors soak in and make the meat extra tender.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the pork is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s a good idea to oil the grill grates lightly to prevent the chops from sticking while they cook.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
After marinating, remove the pork chops from the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the chops on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly juicy chops.
5. Prepare the Basil-Garlic Oil:
While the pork chops are grilling, mix the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil with any extra chopped basil and garlic that you have. You’ll spoon this flavorful mixture over the chops when serving.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat. Then, spoon the basil-garlic oil mixture on top of the chops.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves to make your plate pop with color! Serve these delicious grilled pork chops hot with your favorite sides, like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
This recipe yields tender, juicy pork chops bursting with the fragrant flavor of basil and garlic, all perfectly complemented by that delightful smoky char from the grill.
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in chops. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is perfectly fine! In fact, it can enhance the flavors even more. Just be careful not to marinate too long, as the acid in the lemon juice can break down the meat too much if left too long.
What Can I Serve with Basil-Garlic Grilled Pork Chops?
These grilled pork chops pair wonderfully with sides like grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or even roasted potatoes. You can also serve them with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or on the stovetop to keep them juicy and flavorful!
