These grilled Italian pork chops are juicy and full of flavor. With a tasty marinade of garlic and herbs, they are perfect for any barbecue or family dinner!
I love how easy they are to make—just marinate and grill. They always get smiles at the table! Plus, who doesn’t enjoy that nice char? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are best for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops or even a pork loin. Just keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: This gives a nice richness to the marinade. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works well and has a higher smoke point, making it good for grilling.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that bold flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, use garlic powder but in smaller amounts since it’s more concentrated.
Dried Herbs: Oregano, basil, and parsley add a classic Italian touch. If you have Italian seasoning, you can use that as a convenient all-in-one substitute.
Fresh Mozzarella: Try fresh mozzarella for a melty topping. As a substitute, shredded mozzarella works too, though it won’t be as creamy.
How Do I Get the Best Grill Marks and Flavor?
Grilling is all about achieving that smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks. Here are some tips to help:
- Preheat: Always preheat your grill to medium-high. This helps to sear the meat, locking in juices.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give each chop space on the grill. If they’re too close, they won’t sear well and will steam instead.
- Timing: Grill chops for about 4-5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—145°F is ideal for pork.
- Let them rest: Once off the grill, let the pork chops rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier bite.
Remember, high heat and not fussing with the meat too much while it’s grilling is key to those perfect chops!
How to Make Grilled Italian Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 4 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 thin slices red onion
- 4 spears asparagus (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley or Italian herbs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, with an additional marinating time of at least 1 hour (or longer if you prefer). Grilling will take about 10 minutes, so overall, you can expect around 1 hour and 20 minutes to get these tasty pork chops ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. This flavorful marinade will give your pork chops that lovely Italian taste.
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Rub the marinade all over each pork chop, making sure they’re well coated on both sides. After that, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chops to a resealable plastic bag. Place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour—2-4 hours is even better for more flavor!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat while the pork chops are marinating. It’s important to have it nice and hot for that perfect sear!
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Once the grill is ready, take the pork chops out of the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Then, flip the chops and grill for another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Add the Mozzarella:
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, place a slice of fresh mozzarella on top of each pork chop. Close the lid to help melt the cheese nicely!
6. Grill the Veggies:
If you’re using them, now is the time to add the halved cherry tomatoes, onion slices, and asparagus to the grill. Cook them alongside the pork for a few minutes until they’re lightly charred and tender.
7. Plate and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, remove the pork chops and veggies from the grill. Place the chops on plates, and top each one with the grilled vegetables. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or Italian herbs for a burst of color and flavor!
8. Enjoy:
Serve immediately and enjoy your savory grilled Italian pork chops with sides of your choice. They make a perfect family dinner or weekend BBQ treat!
This recipe combines the smoky flavor from the grill with Italian herbs and fresh mozzarella, enhanced by grilled tomatoes, onions, and asparagus for a colorful, flavorful dish. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so check their internal temperature a bit earlier, around 3-4 minutes per side.
What Other Vegetables Can I Grill with This Dish?
You can get creative! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms would be delicious additions. Just cut them into similar sizes for even grilling and add them in the last few minutes of cooking.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir or shake before using it to ensure the flavors are well mixed again.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist!
