Description
A quick and flavorful marinade that transforms pork chops into a comforting dish, perfect for weeknight dinners and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, finely chopped
Instructions
- Combine the marinade: In a bowl, whisk olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until combined.
- Marinate the chops: Place pork chops in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 12 hours.
- Preheat and prepare: For pan-searing, heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. For oven cooking, preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Sear the chops: Remove chops from the marinade and pat lightly with paper towels; sear each side 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
- Finish cooking: If pan-searing, reduce heat and add the reserved marinade to the pan; cook until they reach 145°F internal temperature.
- Rest and serve: Let chops rest for 5 minutes before slicing and garnish with chopped herbs.
Notes
For a lighter option, swap brown sugar for maple syrup and use low-sodium soy sauce. Adding fresh herbs or citrus zest can elevate the flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared or Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chop
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: pork chop, marinade, quick dinner, family meal, easy recipe