These juicy grilled pork chops are a treat! They are marinated and grilled to perfection, topped with a sweet and spicy peach glaze that makes them irresistible.
Every bite is a fun mix of flavors, and the glaze adds a summer vibe. I love serving these with a side of fresh veggies or a nice salad – it pairs perfectly! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for this recipe because they stay juicy while grilling. If you can’t find bone-in chops, boneless ones work too, but keep an eye on grilling time as they may cook faster.
Peach Preserves: The star of the glaze! If you don’t have it on hand, apricot preserves can be a fun substitute, giving you a different but delicious flavor profile. You can also use homemade peach jam if you prefer.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is perfect for its flavor and helps with grilling. However, you can use vegetable oil or avocado oil if you want a higher smoke point or a flavor that’s less pronounced.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika really boost the flavor! If you’re out of garlic powder, fresh minced garlic works well too. Want less spice? Just skip or reduce the cayenne pepper.
How Do You Grill Pork Chops to Make Them Juicy?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can make them juicy and delicious. Start by getting your grill nice and hot; this helps in creating good sear marks and keeps the juices locked in.
- Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps the oil and seasonings stick better.
- Don’t rush! Grill them at medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 145°F (63°C).
- Let them rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute and makes for tender meat.
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)
- 2 tablespoons 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 peach preserves
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh peaches or peach slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 30 minutes total: 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for grilling and glazing. It’s quick, tasty, and perfect for any dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, fire up your grill to medium-high heat. Take a paper towel and pat the pork chops dry to remove any moisture. This helps them grill beautifully! Brush both sides of each chop with olive oil. Next, sprinkle on some salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, making sure to coat them generously.
2. Make the Glaze:
While the grill is heating, grab a saucepan and set it over medium heat. Combine the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until it’s all heated through and well blended. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly. When done, remove it from the heat and set aside.
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
Once your grill is ready, place the seasoned pork chops on it. Let them grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have those lovely grill marks. Keep an eye on them while they cook!
4. Glaze the Pork Chops:
When the pork chops are almost done, brush that delicious spicy peach glaze over the top of each chop during the last 2 minutes of grilling. Make sure to turn the chops a couple of times so they get an even coating of the glaze and it caramelizes just a bit.
5. Serve:
Once cooked, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Serve the chops with extra glaze on the side for dipping and feel free to garnish with fresh peach slices for an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy your juicy grilled pork chops with the delightful spicy peach glaze!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that boneless chops might cook faster, so check for doneness around 3-4 minutes per side. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re perfectly cooked.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like it spicy, increase the amount of cayenne pepper and add an extra pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze. You can also incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers into the glaze for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which will help preserve their juiciness. You can also reheat them in a skillet with a splash of broth or sauce to keep them moist.
Can I Use Other Fruit Preserves for the Glaze?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap peach preserves for other fruit options like apricot or mango preserves. Just adjust the seasonings a bit to match the fruit flavor, and enjoy experimenting with different combinations!
