Zesty Cilantro-Lime Grilled Pork Chops
Elevate your grilling game with these Zesty Cilantro-Lime Grilled Pork Chops! Marinated in a flavorful blend of zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and aromatic garlic, these juicy pork chops are perfect for summer cookouts or cozy dinners alike. The creamy marinade tenderizes the meat while imparting a delicious tangy flavor balanced with the smokiness from the grill. Serve them up with a side of the reserved marinade for an extra kick of flavor. Your guests will be raving about this dish long after the last bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
mayonnaise
1 cup (none)
fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons (juiced)
fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons (chopped)
garlic cloves
2 (finely chopped)
dried chipotle powder
1 teaspoon (none)
pork chops
8 (about 1-inch thick)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, finely chopped garlic, and chipotle powder. Mix until smooth.
2
Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld together properly. If possible, let it sit for several hours or overnight for enhanced flavor.
3
Reserve half a cup of the marinade for serving later.
4
Preheat your grill or BBQ to medium heat.
5
Brush the pork chops with the cilantro-lime marinade, ensuring they are well-coated on both sides.
6
Place the pork chops on the grill. Grill for approximately 7-8 minutes on the first side, then flip them over, brushing again with the marinade, and grill for another 7-8 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7
Once done, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes.
8
Serve the grilled pork chops with the reserved marinade on the side for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Cilantro-Lime Grilled Pork Chops?
They are juicy pork chops marinated in a creamy blend of lime, fresh cilantro, garlic, and chipotle powder, then grilled to perfection.
What are the main ingredients in the marinade?
The marinade consists of mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, finely chopped garlic, and chipotle powder.
How long should I marinate the pork chops?
You should marinate them for at least one hour, though several hours or overnight is recommended for the best flavor.
Can I marinate the pork chops overnight?
Yes, letting the pork chops sit in the marinade overnight will significantly enhance the depth of flavor.
What temperature should the grill be set to?
The grill or BBQ should be preheated to medium heat.
How long do I cook the pork chops on the grill?
Cook the chops for approximately 7-8 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 7-8 minutes.
What is the safe internal temperature for these pork chops?
The pork chops are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Should I save any of the marinade?
Yes, you should reserve half a cup of the marinade before brushing it on the raw meat to use for serving later.
How thick should the pork chops be for this recipe?
This recipe calls for pork chops that are approximately 1-inch thick.
Do I need to let the meat rest after grilling?
Yes, it is recommended to let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes after removing them from the grill.
How do I serve the grilled pork chops?
Serve them with the reserved half cup of cilantro-lime marinade on the side for dipping.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is preferred for the best zesty flavor, but bottled can be used if fresh is unavailable.
What if I don't have chipotle powder?
You can substitute chipotle powder with smoked paprika or a dash of chili powder for a similar smoky profile.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick from the chipotle powder, but it is more tangy and savory than hot.
How many pork chops does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed for 8 pork chops.
Can I use bone-in pork chops?
Yes, you can use bone-in chops, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach 145°F.
Why is mayonnaise used in the marinade?
Mayonnaise provides a creamy base that helps tenderize the meat and keeps it moist during the grilling process.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is highly recommended for this recipe to achieve the intended bright and herbaceous flavor profile.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe requires 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped.
Can I prepare this on an indoor grill pan?
Yes, an indoor grill pan over medium heat will work well if an outdoor grill is not available.
What type of cuisine is this recipe?
This is an American cuisine dish featuring classic BBQ grilling techniques.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Yes, this cilantro-lime marinade would also pair very well with chicken or shrimp.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your mayonnaise label to ensure it is certified gluten-free.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What side dishes go well with these pork chops?
They pair beautifully with grilled corn, a fresh garden salad, or cilantro-lime rice.
Can I freeze the marinated pork chops?
Yes, you can freeze the pork chops in the marinade in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
How do I prevent the pork chops from drying out?
Using the mayonnaise-based marinade and ensuring you don't overcook them past 145°F helps keep them juicy.
Do I need to grease the grill?
The mayonnaise in the marinade typically prevents sticking, but you can lightly oil the grill grates if desired.
How much lime juice is required?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, simply double all ingredient measurements to accommodate more guests.