Chili Garlic Grilled Pork Chops
These chili garlic grilled pork chops are infused with a tantalizing blend of avocado oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Avocado oil forms the base of this marinade, bringing its rich, buttery texture and high smoke point, ideal for grilling. Unlike more other oils, avocado oil's mild flavor allows the spices and herbs to shine through, while its healthy fats ensure the pork chops remain juicy and tender.
Lime juice adds a zesty, citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the pork, providing a fresh contrast. Its acidity also plays a crucial role in tenderizing the meat, ensuring every bite is succulent and full of flavor. Garlic, with its pungent and slightly spicy notes, is so important in this marinade. When grilled, it mellows and caramelizes, adding depth and a subtle sweetness to the pork chops. Cilantro introduces a burst of fresh, herbaceous notes, balancing the intensity of the garlic. Its distinctive flavor, often described as bright and citrusy with a hint of pepper, melds beautifully with the lime juice.
Chili powder brings the heat and adds layers of warmth and a hint of earthiness to the marinade. It’s the backbone of the chili garlic combination, delivering a punchy kick that’s just right. Cumin, with its warm, nutty, and slightly peppery flavor, enhances the overall depth of the marinade, imparting a subtle, smoky richness that pairs perfectly with grilled meats. Smoked paprika is the final touch, infusing the pork chops with a deep, smoky essence. Unlike regular paprika, the smoked variety offers a bold, charred flavor that echoes the grill’s natural smokiness.
Marinating the pork chops for at least an hour allows these ingredients to fully penetrate the meat, ensuring that each bite is a burst of well-rounded flavor. As the chops hit the grill, the avocado oil helps achieve a beautiful, crispy sear, locking in the juices and creating an irresistible caramelized crust. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika forms a delicious crust on the surface. The lime juice’s acidity keeps the meat tender, balancing the richness of the pork with a tangy finish.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or seeking a delicious weeknight dinner, these pork chops are sure to impress with their bold, vibrant flavors.
Chili Garlic Grilled Pork Chops
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- ½ lime, juiced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp cumin
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl make the marinade. Whisk together the avocado oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Pour the mixture into a re-sealable plastic bag.
- Season both sides of the pork chops with salt and pepper and place in the re-sealable plastic bag with the marinade. Let it marinate at room temperature for an hour before grilling.
- Heat a grill over medium heat. Place the pork chops on the grill and cook for about 4 minutes. Flip and cook on the other side for another 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes before cutting. Enjoy!