These juicy grilled pork chops come with a sweet and tangy spicy peach glaze that makes them extra tasty! It’s like summer on a plate with every bite filled with flavor.
Who knew peach could be the secret partner to pork? Every time I make this dish, my family thinks I’m a gourmet chef—in reality, it’s so easy! Just grill, glaze, and enjoy!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for grilling as they stay juicier. If you can’t find them, boneless chops will work too—just adjust the cooking time a bit since they cook faster.
Peach Preserves: If peaches are not in season, use apricot or mango preserves as alternatives. They can give a similar sweetness with a twist.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tartness. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can be used, but the flavor could be slightly different.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it! You can swap for hot sauce if that’s what you have on hand.
Fresh Herbs: While cilantro or parsley are nice, you can also use basil or mint for a different flavor. They can brighten up the dish!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops to perfection means knowing how to season and check for doneness. Here’s how to get juicy, flavorful chops every time:
- Start by patting the pork chops dry to help the seasoning stick. Rub with olive oil and season generously on both sides.
- Preheat your grill properly to ensure even cooking. Medium-high heat is ideal for grill marks and isn’t too hot to dry out the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked meat. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly even after you take it off the grill.
- Let the chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to seep back, making them extra juicy!
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)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Optional Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prep your ingredients and about 15 minutes to cook the pork chops on the grill. In total, plan for around 30 minutes, including the cooking time and resting period. It’s quick and easy for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure it’s prepared for direct cooking. This will give your pork chops a nice sear and great flavor.
2. Season the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This helps achieve a nice crisp on the outside. Rub each chop with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder generously over both sides. This will give your pork chops a flavorful kick!
3. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, and Dijon mustard. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the glaze thickens up a bit. Once done, take it off the heat.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the seasoned pork chops on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the spicy peach glaze generously over the chops to give them that delicious sticky finish.
5. Let Them Rest:
Once the pork chops are cooked, take them off the grill and let them sit for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps keep them juicy and flavorful as the juices redistribute.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, drizzle any remaining glaze over the pork chops. If you like, garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your juicy grilled pork chops with that sweet and spicy peach glaze!
Can I Use Other Fruits for the Glaze?
Absolutely! If you don’t have peach preserves, you can substitute them with other fruit preserves like apricot or mango. Just keep an eye on the sweetness level, as some fruits may be sweeter than others. Adjust the amount of apple cider vinegar accordingly to balance the flavors!
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you’re looking for a milder glaze, you can reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or even omit them entirely. Alternatively, if you want more heat, try adding sliced jalapeños to the glaze or a few dashes of hot sauce during cooking!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Ahead of Time?
Yes! Marinating your pork chops can enhance the flavor. Simply season them with the salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before grilling. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to keep them juicy. A splash of broth or leftover glaze can help retain moisture!
