These juicy grilled pork chops are a treat for the taste buds! Topped with a zesty peach glaze, they bring a perfect mix of sweet and spicy, making every bite exciting.
Grilling really brings out the flavor and makes them extra tender. I love serving these with a side of grilled veggies. Trust me, your taste buds will dance! 🍑🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are great for grilling as they stay juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chops work too, but keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster.
Peach Preserves: The star of the glaze! If peach preserves aren’t available, try apricot or orange marmalade for a similar sweetness with a twist. I’ve also used homemade peach sauce when I had it on hand—it adds a personal touch!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. You can substitute with white vinegar or lemon juice if needed. Just remember, it helps balance the sweetness of the glaze, so keep that in mind when choosing an alternative.
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust this to your heat preference. If you prefer no heat, skip it or use a pinch of paprika for a mild flavor. I love the kick of cayenne, but you can definitely tailor it to your taste!
Fresh Garnishes: Cilantro and peach slices really brighten the dish. If you’re not a cilantro fan, fresh basil or parsley works well too. The slices add a refreshing touch, so don’t skip them if you can help it!
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Cooking pork chops to perfection can be tricky, but here are my tips to ensure they’re juicy and flavorful:
- Preheat your grill properly. A hot grill gives the chops a nice sear that seals in juices.
- Season well. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. This enhances the natural flavor of the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should hit 145°F (63°C) for the best results. This ensures they’re safe to eat but not overcooked.
- Resting is key! Allow the chops to rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
With these tips, your pork chops will turn out juicy with a delicious glaze every time. Happy grilling!
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
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Fresh peaches, sliced
- Chopped fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 10-15 minutes to cook on the grill. You’ll spend a little bit of time mixing the glaze and grilling the pork chops. After cooking, just let them rest before serving to keep them juicy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). This is important because it helps to get a nice sear on your pork chops.
2. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Dijon mustard. Stir everything well until it’s nicely combined. This will be your tasty glaze!
3. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Take the pork chops and rub them with olive oil. Then, sprinkle salt and black pepper generously on both sides. This helps to season the meat and enhances the flavor.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops on the grill. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them. This helps to develop great grill marks. After 4-5 minutes, flip the chops over.
5. Brush on the Glaze:
While the second side is cooking, brush a generous amount of the spicy peach glaze over the tops of the pork chops. This will give them a sweet and spicy flavor as they finish cooking.
6. Cook Through:
Continue grilling for another 4-5 minutes until the pork chops are fully cooked and have reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). In the last minute of cooking, brush on some more glaze for an extra flavor kick!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time keeps the juices in, making them nice and juicy when you cut into them. If you’d like, garnish with fresh peach slices and chopped cilantro before serving.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your juicy grilled pork chops warm, drizzled with any remaining peach glaze. Enjoy the delicious flavors and impress your family or friends!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops or even pork loin if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; boneless chops typically cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level of the Glaze?
If you prefer a milder glaze, reduce the cayenne pepper to ½ teaspoon or omit it altogether. Alternatively, you can add more cayenne for a spicier kick based on your taste preferences!
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the spicy peach glaze a day in advance! Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or briefly on a skillet over low heat to maintain their juiciness. You can also add a bit of extra glaze when reheating to enhance the flavor!