Thai Marinade for Pork Chops

Elevate your pork chops with this irresistible Thai marinade, a perfect balance of savory, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors! Featuring a mouthwatering blend of soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and freshly squeezed lime juice, this marinade gets its vibrant kick from minced garlic, grated ginger, and a hint of red chili flakes. Sesame oil adds a nutty depth, while optional cilantro garnish brings a fresh, herbaceous finish. Whether grilled to a smoky perfection or pan-seared with a caramelized crust, these juicy pork chops promise bold, authentic Thai-inspired flavors in every bite. Ready in just 10 minutes of prep, this easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard barbecues, and pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or a crisp salad.

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons cilantro (finely chopped, optional for garnish)
• 4 pieces pork chops (bone-in or boneless)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, ginger, red chili flakes, and sesame oil. Whisk until the sugar has dissolved and all ingredients are well integrated.

Step 2

Place the pork chops in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork chops, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 3

Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate and let the pork chops marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Step 4

When ready to cook, remove the pork chops from the marinade and let them rest at room temperature for 15 minutes. Reserve the marinade for basting (if grilling) or discard if not using further.

Step 5

For grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the pork chops approximately 5-6 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Brush occasionally with the reserved marinade if desired, but ensure it is cooked thoroughly before serving.

Step 6

For pan-searing: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of cooking oil, then cook the pork chops for 5-6 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Avoid crowding the pan to ensure even cooking.

Step 7

Transfer the cooked pork chops to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain moistness and juiciness.

Step 8

Garnish the pork chops with freshly chopped cilantro if desired and serve with steamed jasmine rice, a side of vegetables, or a fresh Thai-inspired salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	838.2 grams (838.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1300

Total Fat 70.30g	90%
Saturated Fat 22.00g	110%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.90g
Cholesterol 300mg	100%
Sodium 4529mg	197%
Total Carbohydrate 28.60g	10%
Dietary Fiber 1.20g	4%
Total Sugars 19.70g
Protein 119.00g	238%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 142mg	11%
Iron 5mg	29%
Potassium 1817mg	39%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 51.7%

Protein: 38.9%

Carbs: 9.4%