These grilled rosemary pork chops are full of flavor! Marinated in fresh rosemary, garlic, and olive oil, they are juicy and delicious right off the grill.
I love how simple they are to make! They cook quickly, and the aroma of rosemary filling the air is just wonderful. Serve them with veggies, and you’ve got a tasty meal! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great because they stay juicy and flavorful while grilling. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too. Just keep an eye on cooking time as they may need slightly less time on the grill.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for marinating as it helps carry the flavors. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil is a great choice too. It has a high smoke point, which works well for grilling.
Fresh Rosemary: Rosemary gives this dish a lovely fragrance and flavor. If it’s hard to find, you can use dried rosemary, but use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Thyme is another substitute that could work nicely.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the way to go for this recipe! If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can substitute in a pinch. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon per clove you would normally use.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can get juicy results!
- First, marinate the pork chops for at least 30 minutes. This adds flavor and moisture. The longer, the better!
- Make sure the grill is heated to medium-high before starting. A sizzling hot grill helps create nice sear marks and locks in juices.
- Monitor the temperature! Use a meat thermometer and aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops. Overcooking can make them tough.
- Lastly, don’t forget to let them rest after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite juicier.
Enjoy your grilling adventure with these savory pork chops!
How to Make Grilled Rosemary Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped (plus extra whole sprigs for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley or kale (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes for grilling. Including marinating time, aim for a total of about 1 hour if you want to marinate for 1 hour, or a minimum of 30 minutes for quicker prep. The result? Juicy, flavorful pork chops your family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, pepper, and the optional lemon juice. Whisk it all together until it’s well combined. This fragrant marinade is key to flavorful chops!
2. Marinate the Chops:
Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, ensuring they are well coated on both sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will be!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the pork is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps achieve a nice sear on the meat.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
After marinating, take the pork chops out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the chops on the grill, making sure there’s space between each one for even cooking. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Rotate once halfway through cooking for those nice grill marks!
5. Infuse Aromas:
In the last minute of grilling, add a fresh sprig of rosemary on top of each chop. This will give a fragrant finish right before serving.
6. Let Rest and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This step is super important because it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring they stay moist and tender as you enjoy them! To serve, garnish with the grilled rosemary sprigs and pair with sautéed or steamed veggies like kale or parsley for a delightful plate.
Enjoy your delicious grilled rosemary pork chops! They’re tender, juicy, and packed with flavor! 🍽️
Can I Use Bone-In or Boneless Pork Chops?
Both work well! Bone-in pork chops tend to stay juicier because of the bone, but boneless chops are also delicious. Just be mindful that boneless chops may require slightly less cooking time.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Rosemary?
No worries! You can substitute with dried rosemary, using about half the amount since it’s more concentrated. Alternatively, thyme or sage can also provide a great flavor profile!
Can I Marinate the Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the pork chops overnight enhances the flavor even more. Just ensure they’re covered securely in the fridge to avoid any cross-contamination!
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist. Enjoy your leftovers in a salad or sandwich!
