This James Martin grilled pork chops recipe is all about bold flavour, juicy texture, and confident simplicity. The pork is tender and well seasoned, with a lightly charred exterior and a moist, succulent centre. It is an easy, fuss free dish that suits both weeknight dinners and relaxed weekend cooking. Total time is around 30 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
For the pork chops
- 4 pork chops, about 2.5cm thick
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
To finish
- Knob of butter
- Fresh lemon wedges, to serve
How to Make James Martin Grilled Pork Chops
- Prepare the grill: Preheat a grill or griddle pan until very hot. Lightly oil the grates so the pork does not stick and heats evenly.
- Season the pork: Pat the pork chops dry with kitchen paper. Rub with olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
- Grill the chops: Place the pork chops on the hot grill. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until nicely charred and just cooked through.
- Rest the meat: Remove the pork from the grill and add a small knob of butter on top. Rest for 5 minutes so the juices settle.
- Serve: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and serve immediately while hot and juicy.
Tips
How do I stop pork chops from drying out?
Use thick cut pork chops and avoid overcooking. Resting the meat after grilling is essential for keeping it juicy.
Can I use boneless pork chops?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly as boneless chops cook faster and can dry out more easily.
Should pork chops be pink inside?
A slight blush of pink is fine as long as the juices run clear and the meat is hot throughout.
Serving Suggestions
- Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery new potatoes
- Grilled vegetables such as courgettes or peppers
- A crisp green salad with a sharp vinaigrette
Storage
Room temperature
Pork chops should not be kept at room temperature for more than 2 hours after cooking.
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Freezing
Cooked pork chops can be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated fat: 7 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I cook these pork chops in the oven instead?
Yes, sear the pork chops first in a hot pan, then finish in a 180°C oven for 6 to 8 minutes depending on thickness.
What thickness of pork chops works best?
Chops around 2.5cm thick are ideal as they stay juicy and cook evenly on the grill.
Can I marinate the pork chops ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate them for up to 12 hours in the fridge for deeper flavour.
Are grilled pork chops suitable for children?
Yes, they are mildly seasoned and easy to chew when cooked correctly.
James Martin Grilled Pork Chops
Course: MainCuisine: BritishDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal1
hour10
minutesJuicy grilled pork chops with garlic and herbs, cooked until tender and finished with butter and lemon.
Ingredients
4 pork chops
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme
1 tsp fresh rosemary
Sea salt
Black pepper
Butter, to finish
Directions
- Preheat grill or griddle pan until very hot.
- Rub pork chops with olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Grill pork chops for 4 to 5 minutes per side.
- Rest pork chops with butter for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use thick cut pork chops for best results.
- Always rest the meat before serving.
- Do not overcook to avoid dryness.
