These juicy grilled pork chops are a real treat! They’re perfectly cooked and topped with a sweet and spicy peach glaze that’s bursting with flavor. Yum!
I love how the glaze makes the pork so tasty! It’s like a summer party on your plate! I usually serve these with a fresh salad for a delightful meal. You’ll want seconds, trust me!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for grilling as they stay juicy. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless chops work too, but watch cooking time since they cook faster.
Olive Oil: A staple for marinating, it helps flavors stick. Canola or avocado oil are good alternatives if you need a higher smoke point.
Peach Preserves: Peach preserves give the glaze its sweetness. You can substitute with apricot or fig preserves if peaches aren’t available.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is fine, but you might miss the smoky taste. Try to add a little liquid smoke if you like!
Red Pepper Flakes: They bring the heat! If you prefer milder flavors, skip them or use a pinch of black pepper instead.
How Do I Grill Pork Chops Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but some simple steps can help you keep them juicy. Here’s a solid plan to avoid dryness:
- Marinate for Flavor: Letting the pork chops soak in olive oil and spices helps add moisture and flavor. An hour is good, but longer is even better!
- Preheat the Grill: Always start with a hot grill to get a good sear. It helps seal in juices.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer. The goal is 145°F (63°C) for perfect doneness.
After grilling, rest the chops for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them succulent when you cut in!
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
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh peach slices (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 40 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes getting everything ready, at least 30 minutes marinating the pork, and then about 15 minutes cooking on the grill. Once grilled, let the chops rest before serving. It’s a delicious and quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by making a tasty marinade. In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Rub this flavorful blend all over the pork chops. For the best taste, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, refrigerate them overnight!
2. Make the Glaze:
While the pork chops are marinating, let’s prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, combine the peach preserves, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture as it heats up, doing this for about 5-7 minutes, until everything is warm and nicely blended. Once done, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
3. Preheat the Grill:
It’s time to get grilling! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to help prevent the pork chops from sticking.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Now place the marinated pork chops on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side. When they have nice grill marks, flip them over and brush them generously with that delicious spicy peach glaze. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until their internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle. If you want, brush them with a bit more glaze before serving. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh peach slices and chopped parsley for that extra touch!
6. Enjoy:
Serve your juicy grilled pork chops warm with your favorite sides, like grilled veggies or a fresh salad. Enjoy the wonderful combo of spicy and sweet flavors!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that boneless chops may cook a little faster, so monitor the grilling time and check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) sooner.
What Can I Substitute for Peach Preserves?
If you don’t have peach preserves, you can use apricot preserves or even a homemade peach sauce. Just ensure that whatever you choose has a similar sweetness to balance the soy sauce and vinegar in the glaze for optimal flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, to keep the pork chops juicy and prevent dryness.
Can I Make the Glaze in Advance?
Yes, you can make the spicy peach glaze ahead of time! Prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove before brushing it on the pork chops during grilling to bring back that delicious flavor.