These grilled rosemary pork chops are juicy and full of flavor. The fresh rosemary gives them a lovely aroma that makes your kitchen smell amazing!
Whenever I make these, I can’t help but smile. Pair them with some grilled veggies, and you’ve got a plate full of happiness. Who’s ready for dinner? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops add more flavor and juiciness, but boneless can work too if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember they may cook a bit faster.
Olive Oil: This keeps the meat moist and enhances flavor. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter if preferred. Both will still give a nice richness!
Fresh Rosemary: Fresh is best for a strong aroma! However, dried rosemary can work in a pinch—just use about 1 teaspoon. You’ll miss some freshness, but it will still be tasty.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a punch of flavor. If you’re out of fresh, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder instead, but I love the texture and taste of fresh garlic!
Lemon Juice: This is optional but brightens the dish beautifully. If you don’t have lemons, a splash of vinegar can add similar acidity!
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
To keep pork chops juicy, start by marinating them. The olive oil and garlic mixture adds flavor and moisture! Here are some key steps:
- Pat the pork chops dry before seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick better.
- Don’t skip the resting time before grilling; it allows the meat to absorb more flavor.
- Grill over medium-high heat. Too hot can dry out the chops, while too low won’t sear them properly.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness—145°F is ideal for juicy pork!
- Always let the chops rest after grilling. This is crucial for juicy results, so don’t skip it!
Happy grilling! You’ll enjoy the delicious flavors of these pork chops, perfect for any meal!
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
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes approximately 30-45 minutes of marinating time plus about 15-20 minutes of grilling. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour of time to prepare and cook the pork chops, perfect for a quick dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and the leaves stripped from 2 rosemary sprigs. Set aside the whole sprigs for later. This blend will create a fantastic flavor that will soak into the pork chops.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the marinade stick. Rub the olive oil mixture evenly over both sides of each chop. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30-45 minutes to absorb all those tasty flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the pork chops are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Don’t forget to oil the grill grates to prevent the chops from sticking!
4. Grill the Chops:
Once the grill is hot, place the pork chops on the grill and add the reserved whole rosemary sprigs on top of each chop. This will enhance the aroma while they cook. Grill the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until you see beautiful grill marks and they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Add Lemon Juice:
If you like a bit of tang, drizzle the lemon juice over the chops just before removing them from the grill. This adds a lovely freshness to the rich flavors!
6. Let Them Rest:
Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite juicy and tender.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your grilled rosemary pork chops, garnished with the grilled rosemary sprigs. They pair beautifully with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy every juicy bite!
Happy grilling!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! 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) to ensure they’re safe to eat.
How Long Should I Marinate the Pork Chops?
A marinating time of 30-45 minutes at room temperature is ideal for these pork chops. If you happen to marinate them longer, that’s okay too! Just make sure to keep them in the refrigerator if marinating for more than an hour.
What Sides Pair Well with These Pork Chops?
These rosemary pork chops go great with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or some creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve them with rice or a grain salad for a complete meal!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, being careful not to overcook!
