Flavor-Packed Vietnamese Pork Chops You’ll Crave!

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

When I first dipped my toes into the world of Vietnamese cooking, I was pleasantly surprised by how the simple ingredients could transform a humble pork chop into something extraordinary. The secret? A lemongrass marinade that dances on the taste buds, providing a refreshing twist on traditional flavors. Just imagine the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as these Vietnamese pork chops sizzle on the grill each bite delivering a burst of juicy goodness that leaves you craving more.

This recipe has become a staple in my home, perfect for both an intimate dinner or a lively gathering with friends. Its ability to elevate an everyday meal to something remarkable is unparalleled. Plus, the beauty of marinating overnight means that while you sleep, the flavors are working their magic, allowing you to create a restaurant-worthy dish with minimal effort. So, grab your ingredients and let s bring the vibrant taste of Vietnam to your table!

Why are Vietnamese Pork Chops so irresistible?

Flavor Explosion: The vibrant lemongrass marinade infuses each pork chop with an aromatic zest that elevates the entire dish.
Minimal Effort: With just a simple overnight marination, you re set to impress guests or family with a gourmet meal without the fuss.
Quick Cooking: Grill them up in under 10 minutes, making it the perfect weekday dinner solution.
Crowd-Pleaser: These tender chops are guaranteed to win over even the pickiest of eaters, sparking delight at the dinner table.
Versatile Meal: Pair with rice or fresh veggies for a complete feast, or serve them as sliders for a fun twist.
Unique Twist: Say goodbye to boring dinners and embrace the vibrant flavors of Vietnam in your own kitchen!

Vietnamese Pork Chops Ingredients

Get ready to create a flavor party!

For the Marinade

• Lemongrass finely minced to add a bright, citrusy punch to your Vietnamese pork chops.
• Shallot finely chopped for a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Minced Garlic brings an aromatic intensity that complements the marinade beautifully.
• Brown Sugar balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness, ensuring a caramelized finish on the pork.
• Vietnamese Fish Sauce a key ingredient that adds umami and depth, perfect for marinated dishes.
• Soy Sauce enhances the overall savoriness of the marinade, providing a salty contrast to sweetness.
• Rice Wine Vinegar adds a hint of acidity to brighten the flavors and tenderize the meat.
• Black Pepper gives a warm, spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile.
• Oil helps the marinade cling to the pork chops and promotes even cooking.

Now, gather these ingredients and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds singing!

How to Make Vietnamese Pork Chops

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together all the marinade ingredients until well integrated. This fragrant blend is key to infusing your pork chops with flavor, so don t rush this step.

2. Prepare Pork Chops: Rinse the pork chops under cold running water, then pat them dry with paper towels. Make 3-4 tiny slits where the meat meets the fat; this helps the marinade penetrate better.

3. Marinate: Place the pork chops in a large Ziploc bag or bowl, and pour the marinade over. Massage the chops gently to ensure every inch is coated, then marinate in the fridge for 12 hours or overnight.

4. Rest Meat: When ready to cook, take the pork chops out of the marinade and discard any excess liquid. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes this helps them cook more evenly.

5. Preheat and Grill: Heat a grill pan to medium high. Grease it lightly, then cook the pork chops for 4 minutes on each side, until they re alluringly charred and an instant-read thermometer shows 140 °F-145 °F at the thickest part.

6. Rest Before Serving: Transfer the chops to a cutting board and loosely cover with foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes, soaking in all those delicious juices before slicing into them.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an added pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Vietnamese Pork Chops

• Marination Magic: The longer you marinate, the better the flavor. Aim for a full overnight soak for the best results on your Vietnamese pork chops.
• Don t Rush Resting: Letting the pork chops rest at room temperature before grilling is key. It ensures even cooking and juiciness.
• Temperature Check: Use an instant-read thermometer; aim for 140 °F-145 °F for perfectly cooked chops. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
• Grill Preheat: Make sure your grill pan is hot enough before you add the pork. A medium-high heat gives that lovely charred finish.
• Slit Technique: When making slits on the meat, don t cut too deep. This technique is to help the marinade penetrate without compromising the chop s structure.

What to Serve with Pork Loin Chops with Lemongrass Marinade?

Creating a delightful meal alongside these luscious pork chops can elevate your dining experience into something truly special.

• Jasmine Rice: The light, fluffy texture of jasmine rice perfectly absorbs the flavorful juices from the pork, creating a harmonious plate that celebrates the marinade s zest. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an elegant touch.

• Fresh Herb Salad: A vibrant mix of mint, cilantro, and basil tossed with a lime dressing brings a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pork, making each bite a burst of freshness.

• Grilled Asparagus: The slight char and earthy flavor of grilled asparagus pair beautifully with the savory notes of the lemongrass marinade, adding a touch of nature to your plate. Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.

• Caramelized Pineapple: For a surprising twist, sweet, caramelized pineapple slices can accompany your pork chops. Their tropical sweetness complements the savory flavors, transporting you to a sun-soaked paradise.

• Sautéed Bok Choy: This tender green adds both a lovely color and mild peppery flavor that enhances the dish s profile, while its crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the juicy pork. Finish with a touch of garlic for added depth.

• Coconut Water: Quench your thirst with a refreshing glass of coconut water. Its subtle sweetness and hydration provide a perfect backdrop for the flavors of your meal.

• Mango Sticky Rice: To satisfy your sweet tooth, serve mango sticky rice as a dessert. The creaminess of coconut milk complements the bright flavors of the pork, creating a truly delightful end to your meal.

With these accompanying dishes and beverages, your pork loin chops with lemongrass marinade will shine brilliantly on the table, promising a flavor-packed experience that everyone will adore!

Make Ahead Options

These Vietnamese Pork Chops are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy luscious flavors with minimal fuss during a busy week! You can easily prepare the marinade and marinate the pork chops up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they soak in all the vibrant herbs and spices overnight for maximum flavor. Simply mix the marinade and coat the pork chops, then refrigerate them until you re ready to cook. For an even quicker option, the marinated pork can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days; just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This way, you ll have perfectly tender Vietnamese pork chops waiting to be cooked, just as delicious and bursting with flavor!

Vietnamese Pork Chops Variations

Feel free to make these Vietnamese pork chops your own with some delightful twists!

• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to the marinade for an aromatic lift. Their bright flavors will complement the lemongrass beautifully.

• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha into the marinade for an extra layer of heat. This spicy addition contrasts wonderfully with the sweet elements of the dish.

• Coconut Sweetness: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar or add a splash of coconut milk to the marinade for a tropical flair. This brings a unique dimension while enhancing moistness.

• Zesty Citrus: Mix in the zest of lime or lemon to brighten the flavor profile. A touch of acidity from citrus balances the richness of the pork wonderfully.

• Mild Alternative: For a gentler version, use chicken or turkey chops instead of pork. Just adjust the marinating time to ensure they remain juicy and flavorful.

• Asian Fusion: Experiment with hoisin sauce in place of the fish sauce for a sweeter, thicker marinade. It ll give your chops a rich and slightly smoky taste that s simply irresistible.

• Cornstarch Crisp: Before grilling, dust the marinated chops with a coat of cornstarch for a crispy exterior. This method adds texture and makes for a satisfying crunch with each bite.

• Sweet and Savory Glaze: Create a glaze by simmering the leftover marinade before cooking. Brush it onto the chops while grilling for a sticky, flavorful finish that caramelizes beautifully.

Embrace your culinary creativity and watch how these variations elevate your meal experience!

How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Pork Chops

Fridge: Keep any leftover Vietnamese pork chops in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures they remain juicy and flavorful for your next meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked pork chops by placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their best quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the grill or in a skillet over low heat until heated through. This helps preserve the juicy texture.

Marinated Chops: If you have leftover marinated pork, store the meat in the fridge, and use it within 24 hours to ensure the best flavor and safety.

Pork Loin Chops with Lemongrass Marinade Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting lemongrass?
Absolutely! Look for fresh lemongrass stalks that are firm and have a vibrant green color. The white part should be tender and fragrant. Avoid stalks that are wilted or have dark spots, as these can indicate age and a lack of flavor.

How long can I store my cooked pork chops?
After cooking, store any leftover Vietnamese pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them juicy and flavorful. Be sure to let them cool to room temperature before sealing, as this helps prevent condensation inside the container.

Can I freeze the pork chops for later use?
Certainly! To freeze your cooked pork chops, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They ll stay at their best quality for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently on the grill or in a skillet.

What if my pork chops are dry after cooking?
The more the merrier! If you find your pork chops turned out a bit dry, it s likely they were overcooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 140 °F-145 °F. To remedy dry chops, slice them into strips and serve over a salad or in a warm pita with a drizzle of sauce to add moisture back into the dish.

Any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! Be cautious of the fish sauce if you or anyone you re serving has seafood allergies, as it is derived from anchovies. If you need a vegetarian option, you can replace the fish sauce with soy sauce or a mushroom soy sauce for a rich flavor without the seafood content.

How should I store marinated pork chops if not cooked immediately?
If you have extra marinated pork chops, it s best to store them in the fridge and use them within 24 hours. Keep them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag to prevent any cross-contamination and to keep them fresh until you re ready to grill!