These juicy grilled pork chops are a treat! They’re coated in a sweet and spicy peach glaze that brings a delicious burst of flavor to every bite. Perfect for summer grilling!
Honestly, who knew that peach and pork could be best buddies? I love serving these with a side of corn, and it feels like a backyard party every time. Can’t wait for you to try them! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are fantastic for grilling as the bone helps keep them juicy. If you prefer, boneless chops also work, but they’ll cook faster. Always look for chops that are about an inch thick for even cooking.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the spices stick. If you don’t have olive oil, feel free to use canola or vegetable oil. They’re more neutral in taste but will still do the job.
Peach Preserves: The star of the glaze! If peaches are not in season, apricot or pineapple preserves can be a great stand-in for a similar sweetness.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This gives the glaze a tangy kick. If you’re out, white vinegar or even lemon juice can work, but start with less to avoid overpowering the sweetness.
Spices: Feel free to adjust cayenne and red pepper flakes for the heat level you like. If you want to tone down the spice, you can skip one or use smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but following these tips will help you achieve juicy and delicious results. Remember, letting them marinate is key to flavor and moisture.
- Rub the marinade on the pork chops and let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge for better flavor.
- Preheat your grill well to medium-high heat before placing the chops on it. This helps achieve nice grill marks and keeps the meat juicy.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
- Don’t forget to let the chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy.
How to Make Juicy Grilled Pork Chops With Spicy Peach Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spiciness)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes of cooking time, making a total of around 45 minutes. You’ll let the pork chops marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, marinating them overnight will enhance the flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Rub this flavorful mixture all over the pork chops. For the best taste, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or pop them in the fridge overnight if you have time. This helps the spices soak into the meat!
2. Make the Peach Glaze:
Grab a saucepan and place it over medium heat. Add the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce. Stir everything together well and let it cook, bringing it to a simmer. Keep an eye on the glaze and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens up slightly. After that, remove it from heat and set it aside.
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
Now, let’s fire up the grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, place your seasoned pork chops on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Don’t forget to keep checking the temperature with a meat thermometer for the best results!
4. Glaze the Pork Chops:
When the pork chops are almost done cooking, brush a generous amount of the spicy peach glaze over the top. Flip the chops to coat the other side with glaze too. This will give them a lovely sticky and spicy finish!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle back into the meat, keeping them juicy. Serve them warm, drizzled with any remaining glaze, and enjoy them alongside your favorite sides!
Enjoy your delicious juicy grilled pork chops with a kick from the spicy peach glaze!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless pork chops, the cooking time will be slightly reduced. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side, checking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re cooked through. The marinade will still work great with boneless chops!
How Can I Adjust the Glaze for Less Heat?
If you want to tone down the spice in the glaze, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper to a pinch and adjust the red pepper flakes to your taste. You can also consider adding a little more peach preserves to balance the flavors without the heat.
Can I Prepare the Glaze in Advance?
Yes, you can make the spicy peach glaze up to a week ahead! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using it to glaze your pork chops.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
To store leftover pork chops, let them cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
