These juicy grilled pork chops are topped with a sweet and spicy peach glaze that’s hard to resist! The combination of flavors is perfect for summer cookouts and family gatherings.
Honestly, who knew peaches could be so bossy in a good way? They take plain pork chops to a whole new level! I love serving these with a side of corn for a delicious meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for grilling since they stay juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops work too, but adjust cooking time to prevent dryness.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps seasonings stick. If you’re out, feel free to use canola or avocado oil instead; they have high smoke points and work well too.
Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder give depth to the meat. You can mix in cumin or oregano if you want to switch things up. cayenne pepper adds heat; adjust to your spice preference!
Peach Preserves: These are key for the glaze, but any fruit preserves can be a suitable substitute. Try mango or apricot preserves for a different twist!
Hot Sauce: This adds heat and tang to the glaze. If you want it milder, reduce the amount or use a milder sauce. Alternatively, try a drizzle of honey for sweetness instead.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but there’s an easy way to keep them juicy. First, marinate them well; this not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Use the spice rub for at least 30 minutes or overnight if you can.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high for a good sear.
- Place the chops on the grill, flipping only once halfway through to get lovely grill marks.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, aiming for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
- Let them rest for about 5 minutes after grilling; this allows juices to redistribute and keeps them tender.
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 black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. After that, grilling will take around 15 minutes. In total, you’ll be ready to enjoy your grilled pork chops in about 55 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by mixing the olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Rub this flavorful mixture all over the pork chops. For the best flavor, let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or pop them in the fridge to marinate overnight!
2. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, ground black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Heat it over medium heat, stirring often until the mixture is simmering and well combined. Let it bubble gently for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens just a bit. Remove it from the heat and set it aside.
3. Grill the Pork Chops:
Preheat your grill to medium-high. Once it’s hot and ready, lay the marinated pork chops on the grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and have beautiful grill marks. Can’t wait for that delicious char!
4. Glaze the Chops:
Just a few minutes before the pork chops are done, brush on the spicy peach glaze generously. Make sure to save some of the glaze for drizzling when serving. It’ll add a delicious, sweet heat!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, take the pork chops off the grill and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Serve warm and drizzle the remaining glaze over the top. Enjoy your deliciously spiced and juicy grilled pork chops!
Can I Use Bone-in or Boneless Pork Chops?
Both options work well, but bone-in pork chops tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If using boneless chops, reduce the grilling time slightly since they cook faster. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for both.
What Can I Substitute for Peach Preserves?
If you don’t have peach preserves, you can use apricot preserves or even homemade peach syrup. Just keep the ratios the same, and adjust the hot sauce according to the sweetness of the alternative you choose.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to keep them moist, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Can I Make the Peach Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the spicy peach glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before brushing it onto the pork chops during grilling.
