Grilled Pork Chops with Marinade

These Grilled Pork Chops with Marinade are the ultimate summer dinner, delivering juicy, flavorful meat with just the right balance of sweet and savory. The pineapple juice in the marinade not only enhances the taste but also helps tenderize the pork, ensuring each bite is melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Whether you’re grilling for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Simple and easy – The marinade does most of the work, making this a low-effort recipe with big rewards.
• Perfectly juicy – No more dry pork chops, thanks to the acidity in the pineapple juice.
• Quick to cook – After marinating, the pork chops grill in just 8 minutes.
• Great for entertaining – A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with many side dishes.

Taste & Texture

• Sweet and savory – A perfect blend of brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice.
• Juicy and tender – Marinating overnight ensures maximum flavor and moisture.
• Smoky and caramelized – Grilling adds delicious depth and char.

Dietary Attributes

• Naturally dairy-free
• Can be made gluten-free using Tamari instead of soy sauce
• High in protein

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 4 center-cut pork chops (about ¾ inch thick each)
• ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup soy sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 can pineapple slices (reserve ¼ cup juice)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Oil for grilling
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Notes on Quality

• Use fresh pork chops whenever possible for the best flavor and texture.
• Canned pineapple works great, but if using fresh, squeeze out about ¼ cup of juice.
• Opt for Tamari if you need a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.

Possible Substitutions

• Swap honey for brown sugar if you prefer a natural sweetener.
• Try apple juice instead of pineapple juice for a slightly different flavor.
• Use boneless pork chops, but reduce cooking time by a minute or two per side.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Chops – Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels and poke holes throughout with a fork. This helps the marinade penetrate the meat.
2. Make the Marinade – In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, onion powder, garlic powder, ground ginger, and black pepper until fully combined.
3. Marinate the Pork – Place pork chops in the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Preheat the Grill – Lightly grease and heat an outdoor grill or indoor cast iron grill over medium-high heat.
5. Grill the Pork Chops – Remove the pork from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for about 4 minutes per side or until deep grill marks appear and the center is no longer pink. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

• Grill the Pineapple – While the pork cooks, grill the pineapple slices until they have nice char marks.
• Serve and Garnish – Plate the pork chops with the grilled pineapple on top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Poking holes in the pork chops before marinating helps them absorb more flavor.
• Marinate overnight for the best-tasting, most tender pork chops.
• Let the pork rest for 5 minutes after grilling to lock in juices.

Common Mistakes

• Skipping the pineapple juice – It helps break down proteins for a more tender texture.
• Overcooking the pork – Use a thermometer to ensure you don’t go past 145°F.
• Not preheating the grill – A hot grill ensures good sear marks and locks in juices.

Time-Saving Tips

• Use a zip-top bag for marinating—it ensures even coverage and is easy to clean up.
• Prep ahead – Mix the marinade in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes – The rich, buttery texture pairs beautifully with the sweet-savory pork.
• Grilled Vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add a fresh, smoky contrast.
• Crispy Roasted Potatoes – A crunchy, salty side that complements the juicy pork.

For another flavorful meal, try this Creamy Chicken Marsala for a cozy, restaurant-style dinner.

Presentation Ideas

• Stack the grilled pineapple rings on top of each pork chop for a beautiful finishing touch.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
• Serve on a wooden platter with lemon wedges for an elegant BBQ spread.

Beverage Pairings

• White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling balances the dish’s sweetness.
• Iced Tea – A refreshing, slightly sweet iced tea pairs well with the grilled flavors.
• Pineapple Mojito – The minty-citrus notes enhance the tropical pineapple element.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store cooked pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months—wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag.

Reheating Methods

• Oven: Reheat at 325°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
• Skillet: Heat on low with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second bursts, covered with a damp paper towel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I use boneless pork chops? Yes, but they cook faster, so reduce grilling time.

What if I don’t have pineapple juice? Try orange juice or apple juice instead.

Troubleshooting

Why are my pork chops dry? Overcooking is the main culprit. Use a thermometer to avoid surpassing 145°F.

Can I bake these instead of grilling? Yes! Bake at 400°F for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: Use Tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Low-Sugar: Reduce or replace brown sugar with honey or coconut sugar.

Flavor Twists

• Add chili flakes or Sriracha for a spicy kick.
• Swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce for a more pronounced sweetness.
• Try a honey mustard glaze instead of pineapple for a different take.

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Serve with roasted sweet potatoes for a fall-inspired twist.
• Pair with grilled corn on the cob for a perfect summer BBQ meal.

For another quick and easy dinner idea, check out this Sheet Pan Gnocchi that comes together in just 30 minutes.

If you love collecting new recipes, follow along on Pinterest: Cooking with Callie Pinterest

Let me know how your grilled pork chops turned out in the comments. Happy grilling!

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