Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering culinary experience with these irresistible Grilled Pork Chops with Garlic Lime Sauce! Imagine tender, juicy pork chops kissed by the grill's flames and drizzled with a zesty, flavor-packed sauce that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. This American-style recipe is not just a meal – it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with explosive flavor in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork chops. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help achieve a nice sear during grilling. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lime juice, and olive oil. Mix well to create the garlic lime sauce. This will not only flavor the pork chops but also serve as a marinade.
- Place the pork chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the garlic lime sauce over the chops, ensuring they are well coated. Reserve the remaining sauce for later. Allow the pork chops to marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals until they are covered with white ash. For a gas grill, simply preheat it for about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the grill is hot, remove the pork chops from the marinade and discard the used marinade. Place the pork chops on the grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing for good grill marks to form.
- 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 medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for accuracy.
- Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains tender and juicy.
- While the pork chops are resting, you can warm the reserved garlic lime sauce in a small saucepan over low heat for a few minutes, or serve it cold as a drizzle.
- To serve, place the grilled pork chops on a platter and drizzle with the warmed garlic lime sauce. Garnish with lime wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious grilled pork chops with garlic lime sauce alongside your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always pat your pork chops completely dry before seasoning. This ensures a perfect sear and prevents steaming instead of grilling.
- Marinating Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. While 15 minutes works, letting the chops sit in the garlic lime sauce for up to 2 hours will dramatically enhance the flavor.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to hit that perfect 145°F internal temperature. This guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked pork every single time.
- Resting is Crucial: Never skip the 5-minute resting period after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your pork chops incredibly tender and moist.
- Sauce Strategy: Reserve half the marinade for serving to maximize flavor. Warming it slightly can add an extra layer of deliciousness to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
