Zesty Chipotle Lime Grilled Pork Chops
Indulge in the bold flavors of Zesty Chipotle Lime Grilled Pork Chops, an irresistible dish perfect for your next barbecue or family dinner. This recipe features juicy pork chops marinated in a vibrant blend of chipotle chiles in adobo, fresh lime juice, and aromatic spices. With the ideal balance of tanginess and smokiness, it creates a mouthwatering experience that elevates the natural flavors of the meat. Allow the pork to absorb the marinade for at least an hour—ideally overnight—for maximum flavor. Grill to perfection and enjoy a delightful meal that is sure to impress your guests.
4
Servings
255
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Chops
4 (about 1 1/4-inch thick, bone-in or boneless)
Canned Chipotle Chile in Adobo
1 (chopped)
Oregano
2 (teaspoons)
Garlic Cloves
2 (chopped)
Olive Oil
1/4 (cup)
Fresh Lime Juice
2/3 (cup)
Fresh Cilantro
1 (tablespoon, chopped)
Salt
1/2 (teaspoon)
Instructions
1
In a large self-sealing plastic bag, place the pork chops.
2
In a small bowl, combine chopped chipotle chile, oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt. Mix well to form the marinade.
3
Pour the marinade over the pork chops, ensuring they are fully coated.
4
Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or for best results, up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
5
When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-hot.
6
Remove the pork chops from the marinade, discarding any excess marinade.
7
Grill the chops for about 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8
Once cooked, allow the chops to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain their juiciness.
Nutrition Information
14.5g
Fat
2.5g
Carbs
24g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this recipe?
The main protein in this recipe is pork chops, which can be either bone-in or boneless.
How many servings does this Zesty Chipotle Lime recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What is the calorie count for one serving of these pork chops?
Each serving contains approximately 255 calories.
How long should the pork chops marinate?
You should marinate the pork for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for the best flavor penetration.
What is the recommended internal temperature for the pork?
The pork chops should be grilled until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What gives these pork chops their smoky flavor?
The smoky flavor comes from the canned chipotle chile in adobo sauce used in the marinade.
How thick should the pork chops be for this recipe?
The recipe suggests using pork chops that are about 1 1/4 inches thick.
What is the total grilling time for the pork chops?
The total grilling time is approximately 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness.
Should I rest the meat after grilling?
Yes, allowing the chops to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps them retain their juiciness.
How much lime juice is needed for the marinade?
The recipe requires 2/3 cup of fresh lime juice.
What herbs are included in the marinade?
The marinade includes 2 teaspoons of oregano and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro.
Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, the recipe works well with both bone-in and boneless pork chops.
How much fat is in one serving of this dish?
Each serving contains 14.5g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
This is a low-carb dish with only 2.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is provided per serving?
Each serving provides 24g of protein.
What type of oil is best for the marinade?
The recipe specifies using 1/4 cup of olive oil for the marinade.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
You will need 2 chopped garlic cloves for this recipe.
What is the heat setting for the grill?
The grill should be preheated to a medium-hot temperature.
Do I need to turn the pork chops while grilling?
Yes, you should turn the pork chops halfway through the 12-15 minute grilling time.
What should I do with the leftover marinade?
You should discard any excess marinade after removing the pork chops from the bag.
What container is recommended for marinating the pork?
A large self-sealing plastic bag is recommended for marinating the pork chops to ensure they are fully coated.
Is there any salt in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt in the marinade.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
The nutritional data indicates that the fiber content is negligible or null.
Is this recipe suitable for a barbecue?
Yes, it is highly recommended for barbecues and family dinners due to its bold, smoky flavors.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 8 main ingredients required for this recipe.
What is the primary citrus component in the marinade?
Fresh lime juice is the primary citrus component, providing a zesty tang.
Can I marinate the meat for only 30 minutes?
The recipe recommends at least 1 hour for the flavors to penetrate, though longer is better.
Does the recipe use dried or fresh oregano?
The recipe lists oregano as an ingredient; typically, dried oregano is used unless specified as fresh.
How many chipotle chiles are needed?
The recipe calls for 1 chopped chipotle chile from a can of chipotle in adobo.
What is the main flavor profile of this dish?
The dish features a balance of tanginess from the lime and smokiness from the chipotle chiles.