Zesty Citrus Grilled Pork Chops
These Zesty Citrus Grilled Pork Chops are a mouthwatering delight, perfect for a summer barbecue or any family gathering. Infused with a blend of citrus flavors from freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice, combined with the warmth of adobo seasoning and a hint of garlic, these thick-cut pork chops are marinated to perfection. Grilled to juicy tenderness over a low flame, they deliver a smoky, succulent taste that will impress your guests and leave them craving more. Serve alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Latin American cuisine.
N/A
Servings
210
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Chops
4 (thick cut)
Adobo Seasoning
2 (tablespoons)
Orange Juice
freshly squeezed from three oranges (to taste)
Lemon Juice
freshly squeezed from one lemon (to taste)
Apple Cider Vinegar
2 (tablespoons)
Garlic Cloves
2 (smashed)
Instructions
1
Generously rub both sides of the thick-cut pork chops with adobo seasoning, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
2
In a deep baking dish, place the seasoned pork chops in a single layer.
3
In a separate bowl, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and smashed garlic cloves to create a flavorful marinade.
4
Carefully pour the marinade over the pork chops, turning them to ensure they are fully coated on both sides.
5
Cover the dish and let the chops marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or ideally overnight for deeper flavor.
6
Preheat your grill to a low to medium-low flame, ensuring it is hot and ready to cook.
7
Once the grill is prepared, place the marinated pork chops on the grill. Cook each side for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until they develop a nice char and are cooked through.
8
Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer; the pork chops are ready when they reach 160°F and the meat is no longer pink inside.
9
Remove the chops from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Nutrition Information
12.5g
Fat
3g
Carbs
21g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Citrus Grilled Pork Chops?
These are thick-cut pork chops marinated in a zesty citrus blend of orange and lemon juices, apple cider vinegar, and garlic, then seasoned with adobo and grilled.
What cut of pork is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for four thick-cut pork chops to ensure they stay juicy during the grilling process.
How should I season the pork chops?
Generously rub both sides of the pork chops with two tablespoons of adobo seasoning for maximum flavor before marinating.
What ingredients are in the citrus marinade?
The marinade consists of freshly squeezed orange juice from three oranges, lemon juice from one lemon, two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and two smashed garlic cloves.
How long should the pork chops marinate?
You should let the chops marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, though overnight is ideal for a deeper flavor profile.
What is the best grill temperature for these pork chops?
Preheat your grill to a low to medium-low flame to cook the meat slowly and prevent burning the citrus marinade.
How long do I cook each side of the pork chop?
Cook each side for approximately 10 to 15 minutes or until a nice char has developed.
What internal temperature should the pork reach?
The pork chops are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F and the meat is no longer pink inside.
Why should I let the meat rest after grilling?
Allowing the pork chops to rest for a few minutes helps lock in the juices, ensuring a succulent and moist result.
How many calories are in a serving of this dish?
There are approximately 210 calories per serving.
How much protein is in these pork chops?
Each serving provides 21 grams of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
This recipe is low in carbohydrates, containing only 3 grams per serving.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 12.5 grams of fat per serving.
What type of vinegar is used in the marinade?
Two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar are used to add tang and help tenderize the meat.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The two garlic cloves should be smashed to release their aromatic oils into the marinade.
How many oranges do I need?
You will need the juice of three freshly squeezed oranges.
Can I use bottled juice instead of fresh?
While the recipe specifies freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice for the best flavor, bottled juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.
Is this recipe suitable for a summer barbecue?
Yes, the vibrant citrus flavors and smoky grill profile make it a perfect choice for summer gatherings.
What type of cuisine does this recipe represent?
This dish celebrates the vibrant and warm flavors associated with Latin American cuisine.
What side dishes pair well with these pork chops?
They are best served alongside a fresh salad or various grilled vegetables for a complete, healthy meal.
Does the recipe contain any sugar?
The recipe has no added sugars, though the natural fruit juices provide a hint of sweetness.
How many pork chops does this recipe make?
The recipe is designed for 4 thick-cut pork chops.
Is this recipe high in fiber?
No, this recipe contains no fiber, so it is recommended to serve it with high-fiber sides like vegetables.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Key tags include grilled pork chops, citrus, Latin American, barbecue, and summer recipe.
How do I ensure the meat is not pink inside?
Check the meat with a thermometer to ensure it hits 160°F and visually inspect that the juices run clear.
Can I use this marinade for chicken?
While written for pork, this citrus and adobo marinade would also work exceptionally well with chicken breasts or thighs.
Is adobo seasoning necessary?
Adobo is central to the flavor of this recipe, providing the characteristic Latin American warmth and seasoning.
Should the pork chops be in a single layer while marinating?
Yes, placing them in a single layer in a deep baking dish ensures even coverage of the marinade.
Is this recipe considered keto-friendly?
With only 3g of carbs and high protein/fat content, it is generally considered keto-friendly.
Can I grill these on a charcoal grill?
Absolutely; a charcoal grill will add an even deeper smoky flavor to the citrus-marinated meat.