Juicy Grilled Pesto Pork Chops Shortcut Recipe (2 Ingredients, 20 Minutes) by Donna John

Basil pesto is one of my favorite ingredients – and not just during the summer months when I grow the herb in my garden. I make sure to freeze some pesto to enjoy during the winter months, but I'm not above buying a jar of basil pesto. There are several good brands on the pasta aisle and in the refrigerated section of the grocery store. This shortcut recipe utilizes that jarred pesto that creates a delicious, juicy and flavorful grilled pork chop.

To make this shortcut pesto grilled pork chop recipe you only need two ingredients. Grab some bone-in pork chops from the fridge and a jar of pesto from the pantry. (If you prefer, make your own homemade pesto.) The basil pesto (check out the health benefits of pesto) is rubbed all over the pork chops. You could cook them right away, but if you have time, let them marinate and soak up all the flavors for as long as you can. Cook them on a hot grill and dinner is served.

These Italian-inspired pork chops are juicy, tender and full of herbaceous flavor. This is one high-protein recipe that will get everyone to the table for dinner. Add your favorite side dish to complete the high-protein meal.

Cuisine: American / Italian
Prep Time: 5 minutes plus optional time to marinate
Cook Time: 10 to 15 minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 to 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 bone-in pork chops
• 2 - 3 tablespoons basil pesto, plus more for serving

Here's how to make it: 

1. Put the pork chops into a shallow dish. Spread both sides liberally with the basil pesto. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate at least 30 minutes. (If marinating longer than 30 minutes, put them into the fridge. You can skip marinating the chops, but it does increase the flavor.)
   
2. Remove the chops from the marinade and sprinkle with black pepper and salt, if desired, to taste. (If you have time, remove them about 30 minutes before cooking so they can come to room temperature.)
   
3. Heat the grill to medium heat. Cook the pork chops on one side until well seared, about 5 minutes.
   
4. Flip the pork chops over and continue to cook until they reach desired doneness, about 5 to 10 more minutes. (Pork is cooked through at 145 degrees F internal temperature on a meat thermometer. Cooking time will be affected by size and thickness of pork chops.)
   
5. Let the pork chops rest a few minutes before serving.
   
6. Serve topped with more basil pesto or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. This recipe can easily be doubled.
   

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