Make perfectly grilled pork chops with this easy marinade made from garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. This recipe is ideal for outdoor BBQs or weeknight dinners. Thick-cut bone-in pork chops are seasoned and grilled to tender, juicy perfection. Serve with your favorite sides for a flavorful meal that’s quick and crowd-pleasing.

These grilled pork chops are tender, flavorful, and easy to prepare with a simple garlic-lemon marinade. Perfect for outdoor grilling or stovetop grill pans, they’re a great choice for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

2 lb bone-in pork chops (thick-cut preferred)
3 Tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp black pepper
1 Tbsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

Prep the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels to help them sear better on the grill.
Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Marinate: Rub the marinade evenly over both sides of the pork chops. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Grill: Preheat the grill to high heat. Grill the pork chops for about 5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
Rest: Transfer the pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips

Use thick-cut pork chops for juicier results.
Let the pork rest after grilling to keep it tender and moist.
If you don’t have a grill, use a cast iron skillet or grill pan indoors.
For extra flavor, marinate overnight in the fridge.

Variations and Substitutions

Herbs: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the marinade.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
Citrus options: Swap lemon juice for lime or orange juice for a twist.
Boneless: You can use boneless pork chops, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

FAQs

Can I grill these ahead of time?
Yes, grilled pork chops can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying them out.

How do I know when pork chops are done?
Use an instant-read thermometer. Pork is safe to eat at 145°F with a 3-minute rest time.

Can I freeze marinated pork chops?
Yes, place the marinated pork chops in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh green salad.
Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or couscous for a complete meal.
Add a side of chimichurri, garlic butter, or BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
Juicy, well-seasoned pork with minimal prep
Great for family dinners or backyard cookouts
Customizable and easy to pair with a variety of sides