These juicy grilled pork chops are a tasty treat! They are coated in a sweet and spicy peach glaze that gives them a fun twist. Perfect for warming up any meal!
Honestly, who knew peaches could be so good on meat? I love making these in summer—you just toss them on the grill and enjoy a burst of flavors. Easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for grilling because the bone adds flavor and helps keep them juicy. If you can’t find them, bone-in or boneless loin chops work, but they may cook faster, so watch them closely!
Peach Preserves: If peach preserves are hard to find, you can use any fruit jam or jelly, like apricot or orange. Just remember to adjust the vinegar and mustard for taste to keep the glaze tangy!
Cayenne Pepper: This ingredient adds heat. If you prefer less spice, reduce it, or substitute with a pinch of black pepper or smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This gives a nice tang to the glaze. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or white wine vinegar can also work well, but may slightly alter the flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but it’s all about the right temperature and timing. Here are some tips for juicy chops:
- Marinate Wisely: Always season the pork and let it marinate to absorb the flavors. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can make a difference!
- Temperature Control: Preheat your grill well. Medium-high heat allows for good searing without drying out the meat.
- Don’t Flip Too Soon: Let the chops sear for 4-5 minutes before flipping. This creates a beautiful crust and enhances flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature; it should be 145°F for juicy and safe-to-eat pork.
- Rest Before Serving: After grilling, allow the chops to rest for 5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, making each bite tender.
Juicy Grilled Pork Chops With Spicy Peach Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pork Chops:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh peaches, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to marinate the pork chops. Grilling will take around 15 minutes. In total, you should set aside about 55 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with some paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear when grilling. Rub both sides of the chops with olive oil, then season them generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Let the chops marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or pop them in the fridge for up to 4 hours for extra flavor.
2. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In a small saucepan, mix together the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and chili flakes if you want an extra kick. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until the preserves melt and everything is nicely combined. Once it becomes smooth, take it off the heat and set it aside.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Next, get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly lit. For a gas grill, let the burners heat up for about 10-15 minutes until it’s nice and hot.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the seasoned pork chops on the hot grill. Let them grill for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them—this helps create a good sear. Once golden brown, flip the chops and grill for another 4-5 minutes on the other side.
5. Glaze the Chops:
During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush a generous amount of the spicy peach glaze over the pork chops. This will caramelize on the grill and bring out a fantastic flavor.
6. Check for Doneness:
To ensure your pork chops are cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy!
7. Serve:
Finally, serve your grilled pork chops warm with some extra spicy peach glaze on the side. If you’d like, garnish with fresh peach slices for a beautiful presentation and extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be aware that they may cook faster than bone-in chops; adjust the grilling time to about 3-4 minutes per side. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
What’s a Good Substitute for Peach Preserves?
If you don’t have peach preserves, you can use apricot preserves or mango chutney for a similar sweetness and fruitiness. Just make sure to adjust any additional sweetness in the glaze, depending on your substitute’s flavor profile.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spicy peach glaze up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to use, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring until it’s warmed through and smooth.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or microwave, adding a little extra glaze for moisture and flavor. If the chops are a bit dry, a splash of water or chicken broth can help revive them.
