These juicy grilled pork chops are bursting with flavor, thanks to a sweet and spicy peach glaze. They are perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner!
I love how the glaze makes these chops stand out—it’s like a party in your mouth! You can even impress your friends by serving them with some grilled veggies on the side. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend bone-in pork chops for juiciness and flavor, but boneless ones work too. If you want a leaner option, try turkey chops or chicken breasts instead.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you prefer a different taste, avocado oil or melted butter can do the trick as they will also add a nice flavor.
Peach Preserves: They create a lovely sweet glaze. If peaches aren’t in season, try apricot or mango preserves which can give a similar flavor profile.
Cayenne Pepper: This gives the dish a kick! If you’re sensitive to spice, consider using smoked paprika alone for flavor without too much heat. You can also adjust how much you add based on your preference.
How Do I Get the Pork Chops Perfectly Juicy on the Grill?
The key to juicy pork chops is marinating them and ensuring they’re not overcooked. Marinating helps to tenderize the meat and infuse flavor. Be sure to leave them at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high to get nice grill marks.
- Cook chops for 4-5 minutes on one side undisturbed. This allows a nice crust to form.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C); this keeps them juicy.
- Let them rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This step is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
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 onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
For The Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 15 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook. Including the marinating time, you should plan for approximately 30-45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Rub this flavorful mixture generously over both sides of the pork chops. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
2. Make the Peach Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the peach preserves and apple cider vinegar. If you like it spicy, add the red pepper flakes! Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the preserves melt and the mixture becomes smooth. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for another 5 minutes. Once ready, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your pork chops get those lovely grill marks and a nice sear.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated pork chops on it. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side until you see nice grill marks. Then, flip the chops over and brush them with the peach glaze. Cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Glaze the Chops:
In the last minute of grilling, spread a little more peach glaze on top of the chops. This will add extra flavor and make them shine!
6. Rest and Serve:
When the pork chops are done, take them off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step lets the juices redistribute, making them juicy and tender! Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with any remaining peach glaze on the side. Enjoy your delicious, juicy grilled pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used! Just keep in mind that they may cook slightly faster, typically around 3-4 minutes per side. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What Can I Substitute for Peach Preserves?
If you don’t have peach preserves, you can use apricot preserves or mango chutney as substitutes. These will still provide a sweet and fruity taste, but adjust the seasoning according to your taste as they may vary in sweetness!
How to Safely Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying them out. You can add a splash of water to the pan to help with moisture.
Can I Make the Spicy Peach Glaze in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the spicy peach glaze a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove when ready to use, stirring until warmed through.
