These juicy grilled pork chops are a treat! With a sweet and spicy peach glaze, they are perfect for summer barbecues and will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Trust me, this glaze is a game changer. I’m always surprised by how quick dinner is ready when these are on the grill. Plus, who can resist that touch of sweetness? 🍑🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are fantastic because the bone adds flavor and keeps them juicy. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too, just reduce cooking time a bit.
Olive Oil: I recommend using extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, avocado oil is a good substitute since it has a similar smoke point.
Peach Preserves: Peach preserves are the star here. If they’re unavailable, try apricot preserves or a mango chutney for a unique twist. You can also make your own peach compote if you’re feeling adventurous!
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can add a nice flavor. For heat, adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference; you can always start with less!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or thyme make lovely garnishes. If you have basil on hand, that pairs beautifully with peach flavors, too!
How Do I Keep My Pork Chops Juicy When Grilling?
Cooking pork chops right can be tricky, but with a few tips, yours can come out juicy every time! The key is the marinade and monitoring the cooking time.
- Marinate the pork for at least 30 minutes; longer if you can. This helps infuse flavor and moisture.
- Grill over medium-high heat, which gives a nice sear quickly without drying them out.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Once it reaches 145°F (63°C), pull them off the grill.
- Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and moist.
- Don’t skip the final brush of peach glaze during the last few minutes on the grill; this adds a lovely layer of flavor that caramelizes beautifully.
How to Make Juicy Grilled Pork Chops With Spicy Peach Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (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 level)
For the Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for additional spice)
For Garnish:
- Fresh peaches, sliced (optional)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes total for marinating. You’ll need about 15-20 minutes for cooking on the grill, plus a little time for resting. All in all, you’re looking at around 1 hour from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious outdoor meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well. Take this flavorful blend and rub it all over the pork chops, making sure to coat them evenly. For the best taste, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, you can let them sit in the fridge longer—this will enhance the flavor even more!
2. Make the Peach Glaze:
While your pork chops are marinating, it’s time to prepare the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, mix together the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, and hot sauce if you like it spicy. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly. Once done, take it off the heat and set aside.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Now, let’s get the grill ready! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your pork chops get perfectly grilled with a nice sear.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
It’s time to grill! Lay the marinated pork chops directly on the hot grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). In the last few minutes of cooking, brush the pork chops generously with the spicy peach glaze. This will allow the glaze to caramelize beautifully on the grill, giving your chops an irresistible flavor.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chops are nicely cooked, take them off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps keep the pork juicy! Before serving, drizzle some extra peach glaze over the top. For a lovely finish, garnish with fresh peach slices and herbs if you like. Enjoy your juicy grilled pork chops with the perfect spicy peach glaze!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they may cook faster, so keep an eye on the grill and check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) after about 3-4 minutes per side.
What if I Don’t Have Peach Preserves?
No problem! You can substitute peach preserves with apricot or mango preserves for a similar sweet and fruity flavor. Just adjust the spices slightly if you’d like them spicier.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The spicy peach glaze can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it gently on the stove before using it on your pork chops.
