These juicy grilled pork chops are a summer favorite! Topped with a spicy peach glaze, they bring a sweet and zesty twist that will make your taste buds dance.
Trust me, this combo of savory meat and sweet glaze is simply hard to resist! I love serving them with a side of greens for a bright, tasty meal that everyone enjoys—yes, even the kids!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are ideal because the bone adds flavor and helps retain moisture. If you prefer boneless, they’ll work too, but cook them a bit shorter to avoid drying out.
Peach Preserves: This ingredient gives the glaze its sweet and fruity flavor. If you can’t find peach preserves, you can substitute apricot jam or even mango chutney for a unique twist.
Hot Sauce: I recommend using a favorite brand of hot sauce to adjust the glaze’s heat. You can also switch this out for a mild salsa or omit it entirely if you prefer something less spicy.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional but adds a nice kick. If you want to go milder, you can skip it or substitute paprika for a smoky, less spicy flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Pork Chops Are Juicy and Not Overcooked?
The grilling process is essential for juicy pork chops. First, make sure your grill is hot enough to give you a nice sear. Here are the key steps:
- Rub the pork chops with the seasoning mixture well; this adds flavor and helps seal in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer! When the internal temperature hits 145°F, it’s perfect. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part and ensure the juices run clear.
- Let the chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
Follow these tips, and you’ll achieve juicy, flavorful pork chops every time!
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)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
For Garnish:
- Fresh peach slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 12-15 minutes to grill. In total, you should expect to spend around 30 minutes making these delicious pork chops. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature of about 400-450°F. This ensures that your pork chops will cook evenly and get that nice grilled flavor.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this flavorful combination all over the pork chops, making sure to coat them well so they are full of taste.
3. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In another bowl, combine the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, and optional cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy!). Stir everything together until well mixed to create a thick, delicious glaze for the chops.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the seasoned pork chops on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on one side. After that, flip them over and grill the other side for another 5-6 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F for perfectly cooked pork.
5. Add the Glaze:
In the last few minutes of grilling, take your spicy peach glaze and brush it generously over the pork chops. Allow the glaze to caramelize slightly for that extra burst of flavor.
6. Rest the Chops:
Once the chops are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making your pork chops even juicier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm pork chops with additional spicy peach glaze on the side. You can even garnish with fresh peach slices for a lovely presentation. Dig in and enjoy your delicious grilled pork chops!
## FAQ
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can absolutely use boneless pork chops! Just keep in mind that they might cook a bit faster, so check their internal temperature after about 4-5 minutes per side to avoid overcooking.
What If I Don’t Have Peach Preserves?
No worries! You can substitute it with apricot preserves, mango chutney, or even a homemade peach puree mixed with sugar. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness to your taste!
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover grilled pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or gently heat them on the grill or in a skillet over low heat to maintain their juicy texture.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops in Advance?
Absolutely! You can rub the pork chops with the olive oil and spice mixture and let them marinate in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This will enhance the flavor and juiciness of the meat!
