These juicy grilled pork chops are a summer delight! They’re perfectly cooked and topped with a sweet and spicy peach glaze that adds a tasty kick. Yum!
Grilling them makes the pork so smoky and good, while the glaze gives it a fun twist. I love serving these with a fresh salad for a fruity, fun dinner. You’ll want seconds for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for flavor and moisture. If you can’t find bone-in, bone-less will work too, but they may cook faster. Opt for chops that are at least an inch thick for the juiciest results.
Cayenne Pepper: This ingredient adds a kick! If you like less heat, you can reduce the amount or swap it for a milder pepper like smoked paprika. Just remember, you can always add more spice after tasting!
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring a juicy sweetness, but canned peaches are a fine substitute, especially if they’re in juice or light syrup. If fresh peaches are out of season, frozen ones can also work well.
Dijon Mustard: This gives a nice tang. If you’re not a fan, you could use yellow mustard or apple cider vinegar instead, but the flavor will change slightly.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
Achieving juicy pork chops is all about preparation and cooking time. Start with thick cuts and don’t rush the cooking. Here’s how to get it right:
- Season the pork chops well with olive oil and spices to enhance the flavor.
- Preheat the grill properly. A hot grill sears the chops, locking in juices.
- Cook to an internal temp of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Rest the pork chops for 5 minutes after grilling. This lets the juices redistribute.
Juicy Grilled Pork Chops With Spicy Peach Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-1.5 inches thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh or canned peaches, diced
- 1/4 cup peach preserves
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 25 minutes for cooking, including the time needed to make the glaze. Overall, you’re looking at a total of about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will give your pork chops a nice sear and help them cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Pork Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Use your hands to rub this seasoning mixture all over the pork chops, making sure they are well coated for maximum flavor!
3. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced peaches, peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and ground ginger. Stir the mixture gently and bring it to a simmer, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the peaches soften and the glaze is slightly thickened. Once done, remove it from the heat and set aside.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
When the grill is hot, place the seasoned pork chops on it. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are cooked perfectly!
5. Brush with Glaze:
During the last few minutes of grilling, use a brush to apply the spicy peach glaze over the pork chops. This will give them a beautiful caramelized finish and add extra flavor.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step is essential for keeping the juices locked in! Serve them warm, drizzled with any extra peach glaze left. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops if you prefer! Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check for doneness at about 4-6 minutes per side, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
What Can I Substitute for Peach Preserves?
If you don’t have peach preserves, you can use apricot preserves or a combination of equal parts of honey and diced fresh peaches. This will give you a similar sweetness and flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to keep them juicy.
Can I Make the Glaze in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spicy peach glaze up to 3 days ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and warm it up slightly before brushing it on the grilled pork chops.
