Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled pork chop that's glazed with a tantalizing maple-infused marinade, delivering a mouthwatering blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. These Grilled Maple Pork Chops are not just a meal; they're a culinary experience that will transform your ordinary dinner into a gourmet feast. With just a few simple ingredients and some grilling magic, you'll create a dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Remove pork chops from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black 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 outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400-425°F).
- Remove pork chops from marinade, reserving the remaining liquid for basting. Pat chops dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing.
- Oil grill grates lightly to prevent sticking and place pork chops on the hot grill.
- Grill for 6-7 minutes on the first side, basting occasionally with reserved marinade, until nice grill marks develop.
- Flip chops and continue grilling for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps keep the meat tender and juicy.
- Optionally, drizzle with additional maple syrup before serving for extra sweetness.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your pork chops rest at room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Marinate Wisely: Don't over-marinate, as the acidic ingredients can start breaking down the meat. 15-20 minutes is the sweet spot for these chops.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Sear: Remove excess marinade and pat the chops dry to achieve those beautiful, caramelized grill marks.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked pork, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. This ensures juicy, safe-to-eat meat every time.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
- Optional Flavor Boost: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some additional maple syrup just before serving to enhance the glaze.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 285kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg
