These juicy grilled pork chops are a winner, especially with the sweet and spicy peach glaze that brings everything to life! They’re perfect for summer BBQs and family dinners.
I just love how the sweetness of the peaches mixes with a little kick! It makes every bite exciting. Plus, they’re so easy to make—you’ll impress your friends in no time!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are perfect because the bone adds extra flavor and helps them stay juicy while grilling. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops, but watch the cooking time to prevent them from drying out.
Olive Oil: Olive oil enhances flavor and helps achieve a nice sear. If you don’t have it, avocado oil is a great alternative since it has a high smoke point.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder give a great base flavor. If you’re looking for freshness, you can substitute with minced garlic and onion, but adjust the quantity since they’re stronger.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds heat, but feel free to reduce it or use smoked paprika instead if you want flavor without as much spice.
Peach Preserves: If peach preserves aren’t available, try apricot or mango preserves. They will create a similarly sweet and tangy glaze.
How Do You Grill Pork Chops Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but there are a couple of important steps to keep them juicy. First, always start with dry chops to ensure a good sear. Use a paper towel to pat them down before seasoning.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat; this helps lock in moisture.
- Let the chops rest after grilling. This is crucial! It allows juices to redistribute, making them tender and succulent.
Also, using a meat thermometer can save you from overcooking — aim for 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork chops!
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 pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 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 ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll spend about 25 minutes to enjoy these savory and sweet pork chops!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pork Chops:
First things first, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, pat the pork chops dry using paper towels. Brush both sides of the chops with olive oil. Now, season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Make sure they’re well-coated for that nice flavor!
2. Making the Peach Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to keep an eye on it until the mixture starts to simmer and the peach preserves melt into a lovely glaze. Once it’s all combined, take it off the heat and set it aside.
3. Grilling the Pork Chops:
Time to hit the grill! Place the seasoned pork chops on the heated grill. Grill them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and those beautiful grill marks to form. If your grill has a lid, closing it will help cook the chops evenly.
4. Glazing the Chops:
As you near the end of grilling, brush that delicious spicy peach glaze over the pork chops. Flip the chops and glaze the other side as well. Let it caramelize slightly on the grill for that extra flavor boost!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, which keeps them juicy. Serve warm, drizzled with any remaining glaze, and enjoy those succulent flavors!
Now, sit back and enjoy your meal filled with the juicy goodness of grilled pork chops and a burst of sweet and spicy flavor!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead of Bone-In?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops! Just reduce the grilling time slightly, about 3-4 minutes per side, since they cook faster. Be sure to check the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
What if I Don’t Have Peach Preserves?
No worries! You can substitute with another fruit preserve like apricot or mango for a similar sweetness. Alternatively, you can use fresh peaches cooked down with sugar and a bit of lemon juice to create a makeshift glaze.
How Should I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge 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 to maintain juiciness.
Is There a Low-Sodium Option for the Soy Sauce?
Absolutely! You can use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos as a healthier alternative. Both options will still provide the salty flavor without the extra sodium!