These juicy grilled pork chops are the star of your dinner plate! The spicy peach glaze adds a sweet kick that makes every bite pop with flavor. Yum!
Honestly, the best part is when the glaze caramelizes on the grill. It’s hard not to lick the plate clean! I love serving these with some veggies for a colorful meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are ideal for flavor and juiciness. If you prefer boneless, just adjust cooking time slightly. You could also use chicken breasts or thighs as a substitute for a lighter option.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil or even melted butter can work well for grilling.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper give depth and heat. Don’t have smoked paprika? Regular paprika works, or you can use chili powder for a different kick. Adjust cayenne based on your spice preference!
Peach Preserves: This is the star of the glaze. If peaches aren’t in season or you want a healthier option, try using another fruit preserve like apricot or mango. Honey can also work, though the consistency will differ.
How Do I Grill Pork Chops So They Stay Juicy?
Cooking pork chops to perfection takes attention, especially since they can dry out easily. Here’s how to keep them juicy:
- Start with dry chops by patting them with paper towels before seasoning. This helps for a good sear.
- Let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes after seasoning. This allows for more even cooking.
- Grill on medium-high heat and check the internal temperature. Aim for 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are fully cooked but not overdone.
- Let rested chops sit for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite moist.
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
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 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 red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes to enjoy some delightful grilled pork chops with a fruity twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill warms up, take the pork chops and pat them dry using paper towels. Drizzle olive oil on both sides of the chops. Now, sprinkle a good amount of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper over the chops. Make sure they are well coated! Let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This waiting time lets the flavors soak in nicely.
2. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
Next, grab a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. Add in the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and ground ginger. Stir everything together as the preserves start to dissolve. Keep stirring until the mixture looks smooth, which should take about 5 minutes. Once it’s all combined, remove it from the heat and set it aside for later!
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
Now it’s time to grill! Place your seasoned pork chops on the hot grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side until you can see beautiful grill marks. After that, flip the chops over and brush a generous amount of the spicy peach glaze on top. Keep grilling for another 4-5 minutes, brushing with more glaze halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked chops.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once your pork chops are done, take them off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time is super important because it helps them stay juicy. If you like, drizzle a little more of that delicious glaze on top before serving. Enjoy your Juicy Grilled Pork Chops with Spicy Peach Glaze!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops are great for grilling as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may require a minute or two longer than boneless chops due to their thickness.
What If I Don’t Have Peach Preserves?
No problem! You can substitute with apricot preserves or any fruit jam you prefer, such as mango or raspberry. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious! Adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of sugar or honey if needed.
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 microwave or in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make the spicy peach glaze a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove before using to brush on the pork chops while grilling.