These juicy grilled pork chops are a delightful treat! The spicy peach glaze adds a sweet kick that makes every bite exciting. Perfect for summer grilling nights!
I love how the glaze balances the meat’s flavor so well. It’s like a little taste of sunshine on your plate! 🌞 Don’t forget to make extra glaze for dipping—it’s super tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops work best for juiciness and flavor. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops, but they may cook faster, so watch your grilling time closely.
Olive Oil: While I love olive oil for marinating, you can substitute avocado oil or canola oil if you’re avoiding olive oil. Both will work well for grilling too.
Peach Preserves: If peach preserves aren’t available, apricot jam is a fantastic alternative. It will give a similar sweetness with just a different fruit flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: You can swap it with white vinegar or lemon juice for a tartness that complements the glaze. I prefer apple cider vinegar for its mild flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Stay Juicy on the Grill?
Keeping pork chops juicy is all about proper marinating and grilling. Start by marinating them for at least 30 minutes, but 4 hours is better for deeper flavor. This helps break down the meat and adds moisture.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before cooking; a properly heated grill helps sear the meat and lock in juices.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let the chops rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
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
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste for spice)
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the pork chops. You’ll need an additional 15 minutes for cooking on the grill. Overall, if you include marinating time, plan for about 1 hour total, but you can marinate up to 4 hours in advance for even more flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Pork Chops:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the pork chops, making sure they’re well coated. Let the pork chops marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or you can pop them in the fridge for up to 4 hours if you want extra flavor.
2. Prepare the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and ground ginger over medium heat. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze starts to thicken slightly. Once done, remove it from the heat and set aside.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the glaze is cooling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting those perfect grill marks and juicy chops!
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Once the grill is ready, place the marinated pork chops directly onto the grill. Cook each chop for about 5-6 minutes on one side. Flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the spicy peach glaze over the pork chops, and turn them to coat evenly with the glaze.
5. Serve:
When the pork chops are done cooking, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Serve the chops on a platter, drizzled with more spicy peach glaze for an extra zesty kick!
Enjoy your deliciously juicy grilled pork chops with a sweet and spicy twist!
Can I Use Another Type of Fruit Preserve for the Glaze?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of peach preserves or don’t have them on hand, you can substitute with apricot or mango preserves for a similar sweetness with a unique twist. Just keep in mind that different preserves may alter the flavor profile slightly, so adjust the other seasonings to your taste!
What Can I Use Instead of Bone-in Pork Chops?
If bone-in pork chops aren’t available, you can use boneless pork chops instead. They will cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on the grill and check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Additionally, if you prefer something leaner, pork tenderloin could also be a delicious alternative!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes, or microwave them for a quick option, but be careful not to overcook to avoid drying them out.
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Yes, marinating the pork chops overnight will enhance the flavor beautifully! Just be sure to keep them in the refrigerator and take them out about 30 minutes before grilling to bring them to room temperature for even cooking.
