Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a citrusy flavor explosion that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! These Citrus Grilled Pork Chops are not just a meal; they're a culinary adventure that combines the tangy brightness of fresh citrus with perfectly grilled, juicy pork. Whether you're a grilling novice or a backyard barbecue champion, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and impress even the pickiest eaters.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Place pork chops in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them, ensuring each chop is evenly coated. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400-425°F). Clean and oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove pork chops from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Reserve marinade for basting.
- Place pork chops on hot grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, basting occasionally with reserved marinade.
- Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature. Pork is done when it reaches 145°F at the thickest part.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which keeps meat tender and juicy.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh citrus zest or chopped herbs before serving.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork chops come to room temperature before grilling. This ensures even cooking and prevents tough, dry meat.
- Marinade Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. The 15-20 minutes allows the citrus and honey to tenderize and flavor the meat deeply.
- Grill Technique: Clean and oil your grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking and create beautiful grill marks.
- Meat Thermometer Matters: Invest in a good meat thermometer to hit that perfect 145°F internal temperature - no more guesswork!
- Rest is Best: Always let your pork chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Bonus Tip: For extra flavor, try adding some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to your marinade, or garnish with fresh citrus zest before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 90mg
