These juicy grilled pork chops are a real treat! The sweet and spicy peach glaze adds a fun twist, making every bite flavorful and exciting.
Whenever I make these, my taste buds do a happy dance! I love serving them with a side of grilled veggies. It’s like a summer party on a plate! 🍑🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops are perfect for grilling since the bone adds flavor and keeps them juicy. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use boneless pork chops, but they’re best grilled quickly as they can dry out faster.
Peach Preserves: This provides sweetness and thickness to the glaze. Don’t have peach preserves on hand? Try using apricot jam or orange marmalade instead for a different fruit flavor with a similar consistency.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It’s used to balance the sweetness of the preserves. You can substitute with white vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tang. Each will give a slightly different taste, but all work well!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add heat to the glaze. If you’re looking for less spice, simply reduce the amount or replace them with paprika for a milder flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Grilled Pork Chops Stay Juicy?
Keeping the pork chops juicy while grilling can be tricky, but it’s all about proper seasoning and cooking technique. Here’s how to do it:
- Season your pork chops well with salt and pepper. This enhances their flavor and helps retain moisture.
- Rub them with olive oil before grilling. This prevents sticking and adds flavor.
- Grill on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking! Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (145°F is ideal).
- Let the pork chops rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them more 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)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh peach slices
- Fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes total. It’s a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend barbecue!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your pork chops cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
2. Seasoning the Pork Chops:
While the grill is heating up, take the pork chops and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Then, rub the olive oil on each chop to help prevent them from sticking to the grill. This makes for a nice sear!
3. Making the Spicy Peach Glaze:
Grab a saucepan and place it over medium heat. Combine the peach preserves, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Stir everything together well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly, becoming wonderfully syrupy. Once done, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
4. Grilling the Pork Chops:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the seasoned pork chops on the hot grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the spicy peach glaze over the chops, allowing it to caramelize. This adds a fantastic depth of flavor.
5. Letting Them Rest:
Once the pork chops are cooked to perfection, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the chops, keeping them juicy and flavorful.
6. Serving the Chops:
Serve the pork chops garnished with fresh peach slices and parsley if you’d like. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top for an extra kick of flavor. Enjoy your delicious juicy grilled pork chops!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops, but adjust the cooking time to about 3-5 minutes per side as they typically cook faster than bone-in chops. Just ensure they still reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption!
What If I Don’t Have Peach Preserves?
No worries! You can substitute peach preserves with apricot or mango preserves for a similar sweet and fruity flavor. If you want a healthier option, use a homemade fruit puree made from fresh peaches or any other stone fruit you have on hand.
How to Store Leftover Glaze?
Leftover glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To use again, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat until it reaches a pourable consistency. It can also be a fantastic sauce for chicken or fish!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you’d like an extra kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the glaze, or add some diced jalapeños to the mix while it simmers. Just taste as you go to find the right level of heat for your preference!
