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These Teriyaki grilled pork chops are juicy, sweet, savory, and just the right amount of sticky—all the things we love in a no-fuss summer classic. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weeknight dinner or hosting a backyard bash, this recipe brings bold flavors and grill marks that’ll make everyone think you’re a pro (spoiler: you are!).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Back when I worked as a personal chef, one of my clients requested “something that tastes like it came from a Japanese steakhouse but simpler.” This teriyaki grilled pork chop recipe was born—and it’s been a staple in my own kitchen ever since.
- Deliciously caramelized glaze with minimal effort
- Simple marinade using pantry staples
- Perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining
- Great on the grill or in a grill pan indoors
- Kid-approved and freezer-friendly
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds & chopped green onions (for garnish)
Pro Tips
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness
- Swap honey for maple syrup if that’s what you’ve got
- Don’t skip the fresh ginger—it adds authentic warmth
- No pork chops? Chicken thighs work great, too!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Reserve 1/4 cup of the marinade for basting.
- Add pork chops to a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour in the remaining marinade. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Remove pork chops from marinade and let excess drip off. Discard used marinade.
- Grill pork chops for 4–5 minutes per side, brushing with reserved marinade during the last couple minutes for glaze and flavor.
- Optional: Simmer any leftover glaze in a small saucepan over medium heat and stir in cornstarch slurry until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
- Transfer pork chops to a plate and let rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Always let the pork rest before slicing to lock in juices.
- Don’t over-marinate—longer than 8 hours can make the pork mushy.
- If using a grill pan, open a window—teriyaki loves to sizzle!
- For extra caramelization, add a little glaze during the last 60 seconds of grilling.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Swap pork with chicken breast, boneless thighs, or even salmon.
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for a full meal.
- Pile on a crisp Asian slaw or grilled veggies on the side.
- Turn it into a sandwich with toasted brioche buns and pineapple rings!
FAQs
Can I make this without a grill?
Yes! Use a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for similar results inside.
How long should I marinate the pork chops?
At least 30 minutes, but no more than 8 hours to avoid breaking down the meat too much.
Can I freeze the pork in the marinade?
Absolutely! Place the pork chops and marinade in a freezer bag and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinate time)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus marinate time)
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional)
- Sesame seeds & chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Mix marinade ingredients. Reserve 1/4 cup for glazing.
- Marinate pork chops for 30 minutes to 8 hours.
- Grill over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side, basting with reserved glaze.
- Optional: Thicken extra glaze on the stovetop and serve on top.
- Garnish and rest before serving.
Nutrition: ~310 calories per serving
If you make these Teriyaki pork chops, I’d love to hear how they turned out! Leave a comment below, snap a pic and tag me on Instagram @thekitchensaid, or share your twist. Happy grilling!
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