These juicy grilled pork chops are topped with a fruity spicy peach glaze that gives a sweet kick. The mix of flavors makes every bite exciting and perfect for summer barbecues!
I love how the glaze caramelizes on the grill, adding a delicious crunch. You won’t believe how easy it is to impress friends with this simple recipe—everyone will be asking for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in pork chops are the best choice for juicy results. If you can’t find bone-in, boneless works too, but they may cook faster. For a leaner option, try using pork loin or tenderloin.
Peach Preserves: These give sweetness and flavor. If you don’t have peach preserves, try apricot or mango preserves instead. You can also use fresh peaches, just cook them down with a bit of sugar and water for a similar effect.
Fresh Jalapeño: This adds a kick to the glaze. If you prefer less heat, use a green bell pepper or skip it altogether. For more heat, consider serrano peppers. You can adjust the amount based on your taste!
Apple Cider Vinegar: An essential ingredient for a touch of acidity. If you don’t have it, try white vinegar or lemon juice as good alternatives. They help balance out the sweetness of the glaze!
What’s the Best Way to Grill Pork Chops Without Drying Them Out?
The secret to keeping your pork chops juicy is all in the marinating and cooking method. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by coating the pork chops evenly with the marinade; let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This infuses flavor and keeps the meat moist.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring a good sear without overcooking. A hot grill creates grill marks and seals in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Pull them off the grill at 145°F (63°C) – they’ll continue to cook a little while resting.
- Give the chops a rest for about 5 minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute. This prevents dryness when you cut into them.
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
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced jalapeño (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
For Garnish:
- Fresh peach slices (optional)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes for grilling. If you let the pork chops marinate for a while (up to 2 hours), it’ll help the flavors develop even more. So, in total, expect about 30-40 minutes, plus the marinating time if you choose!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by mixing together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in a large bowl. Coat the pork chops evenly in this mixture, ensuring they are well-covered. Let the pork chops marinate for at least 30 minutes; if you have more time, up to 2 hours will enhance the flavor even more!
2. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the peach preserves, minced jalapeño, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Heat this mixture over medium heat. Stir continuously until the peach preserves melt and everything is blended smoothly. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens just a bit. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the glaze is cooling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). This will get your grill ready for cooking those delicious pork chops!
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Place the marinated pork chops on the hot grill. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on one side. Once they have nice grill marks, flip them over and brush them generously with the spicy peach glaze. Grill for another 5-6 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This ensures they are juicy and flavorful!
5. Glaze Again:
In the last minute of grilling, brush the pork chops again with some extra glaze to really amp up the flavor!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy! If you want, garnish with fresh peach slices and herbs, and serve with any remaining spicy peach glaze on the side.
Enjoy your succulent grilled pork chops with the sweet and spicy peach glaze!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! If you prefer boneless pork chops, the recipe will still work well. Just adjust the grilling time to about 4-5 minutes per side since boneless chops cook a bit faster. Make sure to check the internal temperature to reach 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Peach Preserves?
No worries! You can substitute peach preserves with apricot preserves or even mango chutney for a similar sweet and fruity flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a homemade glaze using fresh peaches cooked down with a bit of sugar and a splash of vinegar!
How to Store Leftover Pork Chops?
To store leftovers, let the pork chops cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the grill or in the microwave, brushing with a little extra peach glaze to keep them juicy.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the spicy peach glaze up to a week in advance. Just store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, reheat it gently on the stove until warm, stirring to recombine the ingredients.
