These juicy grilled pork chops slathered in a spicy peach glaze are sure to please! The sweet and spicy mix makes each bite an exciting treat for your taste buds.
Cooking these chops is super fun! I love how the glaze caramelizes on the grill, making them extra tasty. Don’t forget to have some extra peaches on hand to enjoy on the side! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops give great flavor and stay juicy while grilling. If you can’t find this cut, boneless chops or even pork loin can work, but keep in mind they’ll cook faster.
Peach Preserves: These add sweetness to the glaze. If peaches aren’t in season, apricot preserves or even pineapple can be a lovely substitute, providing a tropical twist!
Spices: Smoked paprika enhances flavor with a hint of smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a pinch of chili powder can do the trick. Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
Olive Oil: This helps to keep the pork moist and adds richness. Other oils like canola or avocado oil can work as alternatives, but avoid oils with strong flavors, like sesame oil.
How Do I Achieve Perfect Grilled Pork Chops?
Getting juicy grilled pork chops can be a challenge, but a few key steps make it easier! Start by marinating the pork chops with your spice mix, letting them soak in the flavor. This also helps tenderize the meat.
- Preheat your grill properly for that nice sear. Aim for about 400°F (200°C).
- Don’t move the chops around on the grill too much! Let them cook undisturbed for those beautiful grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Pork should reach 145°F (63°C) before resting.
- Resting the chops after grilling is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.
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 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh peach slices
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take you about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for grilling the pork chops. Get ready for a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Grill Ready:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is around 400°F (200°C). It’s important to have it hot so that your pork chops get a nice sear!
2. Season the Pork Chops:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This will be your flavorful seasoning! Rub this mixture all over both sides of the pork chops, coating them well.
3. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In another bowl, combine the peach preserves, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nicely blended and smooth. This glaze is what makes your pork chops extra special!
4. Grill Your Pork Chops:
Once your grill is hot, place the seasoned pork chops directly on the grates. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Don’t move them around! This will help create those beautiful grill marks.
5. Add the Glaze:
Now, flip the pork chops over and brush a generous amount of your spicy peach glaze on the cooked side. Grill for another 4-5 minutes, letting that glaze caramelize beautifully.
6. Finish Cooking:
Flip the pork chops back to their original side and brush on more glaze. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You want them perfectly cooked and juicy!
7. Let Them Rest:
Once done, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step is key for keeping them juicy and flavorful!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your grilled pork chops garnished with fresh peach slices and herbs, if you like. Enjoy your delicious juicy meal with that spicy peach glaze!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just be mindful that they may cook faster, so start checking the internal temperature after about 3-4 minutes on each side. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure they are juicy and safe to eat.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can add a little extra glaze to keep them moist!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level of the Glaze?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper or leave it out altogether. On the flip side, for more heat, add extra cayenne or consider incorporating diced jalapeños into the glaze. Just remember to taste as you adjust!
What Can I Use Instead of Peach Preserves?
If you don’t have peach preserves on hand, you can substitute with apricot preserves, mango chutney, or even raspberry preserves for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly alter the taste of the glaze!
