These Basil-Garlic Grilled Pork Chops are a tasty treat! Juicy chops are marinated with fresh basil and garlic, giving them a burst of flavor. Perfect for summer grilling!
Honestly, the aroma of these chops sizzling on the grill is just mouth-watering. I always serve them with a side salad, and they disappear faster than I can say “yum!” 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops keep the meat juicy while cooking. If you prefer boneless, that’s fine too! Just adjust cooking time since they will cook faster. You could also use chicken breasts for a lighter option.
Basil: Fresh basil brings amazing flavor. If fresh is hard to find, you can use dried basil—just reduce it to about 1 tablespoon. Italian seasoning is another quick substitute, but it won’t have the same fresh burst.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch. In a pinch, you can use garlic powder—about 1 teaspoon, though I recommend fresh for the best flavor.
Olive Oil: This is my go-to! It’s healthy and flavorful. You can swap with avocado oil if you need a higher smoke point or even melted butter for richness.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops so they’re juicy and flavorful takes attention to detail. First, marinating adds depth, so allow enough time for this step. Pat the chops dry with a paper towel after marinating; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks!
- Preheat your grill! A hot grill is key to searing the chops and locking in juices. Aim for around 400°F to 450°F.
- Grill each chop for about 4–5 minutes per side, flipping them only once. This helps develop a nice crust.
- Check the temperature! An instant-read thermometer is helpful. You want 145°F in the thickest part.
- Lastly, let the chops rest for a few minutes off the heat. This helps redistribute the juices for maximum tenderness.
How to Make Basil-Garlic Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10–12 minutes to grill the pork chops. Plus, let’s not forget about marinating time! Aim for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, let them soak in the marinade for 2–4 hours. So overall, plan for around 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on your schedule.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix the chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want that little kick. This aromatic marinade is what brings all the flavor to your pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Grab a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Add the pork chops and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they’re coated on both sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour, preferably 2–4 hours. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat beautifully.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Turn on your grill and set it to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). While it heats, make sure to lightly oil the grates with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chops:
Take the pork chops out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade to keep things safe! Place the chops on the grill and cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side until you have those gorgeous grill marks and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once off the grill, let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This brief rest allows the juices to settle back into the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. Serve the chops warm, garnished with extra basil leaves and maybe a drizzle of olive oil on top!
6. Enjoy Your Meal!
Pair these delicious basil-garlic grilled pork chops with your choice of sides such as grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes. Enjoy the flavors and the compliments you’ll receive!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops for This Recipe?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! They will cook faster than bone-in chops, so check for doneness at about 3–4 minutes per side, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight can actually enhance the flavor even more. Just keep them in a sealed bag or airtight container in the refrigerator, and you’ll have super flavorful chops the next day!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil can work in a pinch! Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil for this recipe. However, keep in mind that fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor that’s hard to beat!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just be careful not to overcook, or they might dry out!