These juicy grilled pork chops come to life with a sweet and spicy peach glaze that makes every bite exciting! They’re perfect for a backyard BBQ or a cozy dinner at home.
Honestly, the flavor combo of spicy and sweet is a winner! I love serving these with a fresh salad—it balances everything out nicely. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are great for their juiciness. If you need a leaner option, boneless pork chops work too, but remember they may cook faster, so keep an eye on the temperature.
Peach Preserves: If fresh peaches are in season, you can make a homemade glaze using pureed peaches instead. Just add a bit of sugar for sweetness and simmer until thickened.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Don’t have apple cider? White wine vinegar or even lemon juice can give a nice kick. Each has its unique flavor, so pick what you like best!
Spices: If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or leave out the red pepper flakes altogether. You can also swap smoked paprika for regular paprika for a milder taste.
How Do I Grill Pork Chops Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but keeping them juicy is all about preparation and timing. Here are some tips to help you:
- Pat Dry: This step is crucial. It helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a nice sear.
- Oiling: Rubbing the chops with olive oil adds flavor and moisture, helping them stay juicy during cooking.
- Correct Temperature: Grill at medium-high heat. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 145°F (63°C).
- Resting: Let’s not skip this step. Resting these chops after grilling gives the juices time to redistribute, making every bite 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)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
For The Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook. You’ll spend time seasoning the pork chops, making the glaze, and grilling the chops to juicy perfection. In roughly 35 minutes, you can have a tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with some paper towels. This helps them grill nicely. Next, rub each chop with olive oil to keep them moist, then sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper for a kick of flavor. Make sure to coat them evenly!
2. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes (if you want some extra heat!). Stir the mixture over medium heat until everything is well combined and the peach preserves have melted into a lovely sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, then take it off the heat.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat. Make sure it’s clean and oiled to prevent the pork chops from sticking while they cook.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place your seasoned pork chops on the grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that golden, grilled color and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they’re perfectly cooked.
5. Apply the Peach Glaze:
During the last minute of grilling, generously brush the pork chops with the spicy peach glaze on both sides. This will caramelize the glaze a bit and create a beautiful, flavorful crust.
6. Rest and Serve:
When the pork chops are done, take them off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle and makes the meat super juicy when you cut in. Serve them warm, drizzled with any leftover peach glaze. Enjoy your delicious grilled pork chops with a tasty side dish!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops will work just fine. Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit faster, so check the internal temperature earlier, around 3-4 minutes per side, to avoid overcooking.
How to Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder glaze, reduce the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes. You can also leave out the cayenne altogether and let the peach preserves shine through. For a bolder flavor, consider adding more cayenne or additional crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste!
Can I Make the Glaze in Advance?
Yes! You can make the spicy peach glaze ahead of time. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to one week. Just warm it up gently on the stove or in the microwave before brushing it on the pork chops.
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also add a splash of apple cider vinegar to keep them moist while reheating!
