These juicy grilled pork chops are perfect for a summer cookout! Topped with a sweet and spicy peach glaze, this dish is a tasty twist that will have your taste buds dancing.
Trust me, the mix of spices and peaches makes each bite exciting! I love serving these with some grilled veggies for a colorful plate that’s also delicious and fun to eat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops bring more flavor and moisture than boneless ones. If you can’t find bone-in, use boneless, but keep an eye on cooking time as they might cook faster.
Peach Preserves: Look for a good quality preserve for maximum flavor. If peaches are in season, try using fresh peaches instead—just blend them and cook down to thicken.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, substitute with tamari or coconut aminos. These alternatives offer similar umami flavors without the gluten.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the quantity according to your spice tolerance. If you prefer more heat, consider fresh jalapeños or a hotter pepper instead.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Pork Chops?
Grilling pork chops can be tricky, but a few tricks will lead you to juicy results. Start by making sure your chops are at room temperature before grilling, which helps them cook evenly.
- Pat the chops dry to get a great sear. The oil you apply helps create a nice crust.
- Preheat your grill properly; a hot grill locks in moisture. Wait until it reaches 400-450°F.
- Don’t flip too soon! Let them sear for 5-6 minutes to develop that golden crust before turning.
Check the temperature with a meat thermometer; 145°F is your target. Let them rest for 5 minutes so the juices settle back in!
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 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1/2 cup peach preserves
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh peach slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to grill, plus an additional 5 minutes for resting. In just about half an hour, you’ll have juicy, flavorful pork chops on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Start by patting the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear on the grill. Rub both sides of each chop with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Make sure they’re well coated!
2. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In a medium bowl, combine the peach preserves, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This glaze will give your chops that yummy sweet and spicy kick!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Fire up your grill and preheat it to medium-high heat, which is about 400-450°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are ashed over and glowing for the best grilling experience.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Once the grill is hot, place the pork chops on it. Grill for about 5-6 minutes on the first side. You want to see a nice, golden-brown sear. Then, flip the chops and cook on the other side for another 5-6 minutes.
5. Glaze the Chops:
In the last 2-3 minutes of grilling, brush the spicy peach glaze generously over the pork chops. Close the grill lid to help set the glaze. This will enhance the flavor and make them even more delicious!
6. Check for Doneness:
To ensure the pork chops are cooked just right, use a meat thermometer to check that they have reached an internal temperature of 145°F. Once they hit that mark, it’s time to take them off the grill!
7. Rest the Chops:
After grilling, let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes. This is important so the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making them extra juicy and tender.
8. Serve:
Finally, garnishing your juicy grilled pork chops with fresh peach slices adds a lovely touch. Drizzle with any leftover glaze for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Yes, boneless pork chops will work just fine! Just be aware that they may cook a bit faster, so start checking for doneness a couple of minutes earlier. The internal temperature should still reach 145°F for safe consumption.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level of the Glaze?
If you prefer a milder glaze, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. Alternatively, you can replace them with a sweeter chili powder for flavor without the heat. For extra spice, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the glaze mixture.
Can I Make the Glaze Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spicy peach glaze a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before using, give it a good stir to recombine any ingredients that may have settled.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
To store leftovers, let the pork chops cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave while keeping a damp paper towel over them to retain moisture.