Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the vibrant flavors of our Cilantro Lime Grilled Pork Chops! This mouthwatering recipe combines the zesty brightness of lime and the fresh aroma of cilantro, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner, these succulent pork chops will have your family and friends begging for seconds. In just 25 minutes, you can serve up a feast that transports you straight to the heart of Mexico. So, fire up the grill and let’s dive into this flavorful culinary adventure!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the marinade for the pork chops. In a medium bowl, combine the freshly chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, ensuring they are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. If time permits, marinating for up to 2 hours is ideal for enhanced flavor.
- While the pork chops are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed and glowing. For a gas grill, allow it to heat up for about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the grill is hot, remove the pork chops from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Place the pork chops on the grill, making sure they are not overcrowded. Grill the pork chops for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them. This will create beautiful grill marks and help seal in the juices.
- After 6-7 minutes, flip the pork chops and grill for an additional 6-7 minutes on the other side. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for optimal doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature if necessary.
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains juicy and tender.
- After resting, serve the cilantro lime grilled pork chops with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, allow the pork chops to marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours if you have the time. This will enhance the flavors and make the meat even more tender.
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the pork chops on it. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and locks in the juices.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give each pork chop enough space on the grill to cook evenly. Overcrowding can cause the temperature to drop and result in uneven cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your pork chops are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This guarantees juicy and tender meat every time.
- Let Them Rest: After grilling, let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.
- Pair with Fresh Sides: Serve your grilled pork chops with refreshing sides like grilled vegetables, cilantro lime rice, or a crisp salad to complement the dish’s bold flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
