Herb-brined and grilled pork chops with lemon

Savor the flavors of perfectly herb-brined and grilled pork chops with lemon. This delightful recipe combines thyme, garlic, and a touch of brown sugar for savory chops that leave a lasting impression. Easy to follow and utterly delicious!

  • 12 Feb 2025
  • Cook time 20 min
  • Prep time 20 min
  • 4 Servings
  • 9 Ingredients

Herb-brined and grilled pork chops with lemon

Herb-brined and grilled pork chops with lemon is a delightful dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of the brine with the fresh, zesty brightness of lemon. This recipe ensures that the pork chops stay moist, tender, and full of aromatic goodness. Perfect for a weekend barbecue or a special dinner, this dish is bound to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

3/4 cup water
180g
3 tbsp salt
55g
2 tbsp fresh thyme
4.80g
2 tbsp brown sugar
18g
2 tsp black pepper
4.20g
4 garlic cloves
12g
4 pork fillet
800g
2 tsp bay leaf
3.60g
1/2 lemon
55g

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brine:
- In a medium bowl, combine 3/4 cup water, 3 tbsp salt, 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Stir until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved.
- Add the minced garlic cloves and crushed bay leaves to the brine solution.
2. Brine the Pork Chops:
- Place the pork fillets in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the brine mixture over the pork fillets, ensuring they are fully submerged. Add the lemon slices to the brine.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 4 hours for best results.
3. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F or 190-230°C).
4. Prepare the Pork Chops for Grilling:
- Remove the pork fillets from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. Discard the brine and lemon slices.
5. Grill the Pork Chops:
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Place the pork fillets on the preheated grill.
- Grill the pork fillets for approximately 4-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer. The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your pork fillets.
6. Rest the Pork Chops:
- Once the pork fillets are cooked through, transfer them to a plate and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful and tender chop.
7. Serve:
- Serve the herb-brined and grilled pork chops warm, garnished with additional thyme and a fresh lemon wedge, if desired.

Tips:

- Properly brine the pork chops: Ensure the pork chops are fully submerged in the brine and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, for maximum flavor infusion.

- Preheat the grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the pork chops on it. This helps to sear the chops and lock in the moisture.

- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the pork chops are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer. Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and allowed to rest for 3 minutes before serving.

- Slice the garlic thinly: Thin slices of garlic will disperse their flavor more evenly throughout the brine, ensuring every bite of the pork chop is infused with its aromatic quality.

- Cut and squeeze the lemon: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the grilled pork chops for an extra burst of flavor. You can also zest the lemon and add it to the brine for additional citrus notes.

With a blend of fragrant herbs and a zing of lemon, these herb-brined and grilled pork chops offer a palate-pleasing experience. This cooking method ensures juicy, flavorful meat that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size280 grams
Energy
Calories 250kcal12%
Protein
Protein 44g28%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 7g2%
Fiber 0.89g2%
Sugar 4.74g5%
Fat
Fat 4.40g5%
Saturated 1.41g5%
Cholesterol 130mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 0.42ug0%
Choline 160mg30%
Vitamin B1 2.00mg167%
Vitamin B2 0.69mg53%
Vitamin B3 13mg83%
Vitamin B6 1.60mg94%
Vitamin B9 1.80ug0%
Vitamin B12 1.01ug42%
Vitamin C 7mg8%
Vitamin E 0.47mg3%
Vitamin K 1.77ug1%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 44mg3%
Copper, Cu 0.21mg24%
Iron, Fe 2.22mg20%
Magnesium, Mg 60mg14%
Phosphorus, P 500mg40%
Potassium, K 850mg25%
Selenium, Se 60ug112%
Sodium, Na 5330mg356%
Zinc, Zn 3.82mg35%
Water
Water 210g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

More recipes

Spinach, bacon and pinenut risotto

Easy to make and packed with taste, it's a comforting and filling meal the whole family will love.

20 Feb 2025

Upside-down caramel banana cake

Bake it today and enjoy a slice of heaven.

22 Apr 2025

Spicy sausage and shrimp skillet

Quick and easy to make, it's perfect for a hearty dinner any night of the week.

14 Mar 2025

Buttermilk cole slaw with garlic and onion

Discover the perfect blend of tangy and creamy with this Buttermilk Cole Slaw recipe! Featuring fresh cabbage, cucumber, and onion mixed with a rich dressing made of dried milk, vinegar, mayo, garlic powder, and spices, this easy-to-make side dish is a flavorful addition to any meal.

27 Mar 2025

Smoky red wine gravy

Perfect for adding depth to any dish.

07 Feb 2025

Pbj cottage cheese

Perfect as a quick snack or a nutritious breakfast option.

16 Mar 2025

Chocolate mud cake

Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat anytime.

27 Feb 2025

Pot-roasted chicken with 40 cloves of garlic

Elevate your home-cooking with this aromatic delight.

21 Feb 2025

Posts