These juicy grilled pork chops are the perfect summer treat! Topped with a zesty spicy peach glaze, each bite is bursting with flavor. Who knew pork could be so exciting?
Whenever I make this dish, I can’t help but smile. The sweet and spicy combo keeps everyone coming back for more. Pair with a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Bone-in chops offer great flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, you can use boneless chops, but be mindful that they may cook a bit faster.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for marinating the chops, but feel free to substitute with canola or avocado oil if you prefer a different flavor or want a higher smoke point.
Peach Preserves: If fresh peaches are in season, consider making a fresh peach glaze instead. For a sugar-free option, look for no-sugar-added preserves or even a fruit puree.
Sriracha: Enjoy the heat but want to tone it down? Try using a milder hot sauce or even a dash of cayenne pepper mixed with a bit of honey for sweetness.
How Do I Get My Pork Chops Grill Marks and Juiciness?
Grilling can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get those lovely grill marks and juicy chops!
- Start with preheating the grill to medium-high. This ensures a good sear.
- Pat the pork chops dry before marinating them; moisture can prevent those grill marks.
- Don’t flip the chops too soon! Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. 145°F is perfect!
Lastly, remember to rest the pork chops after grilling. This step is crucial for juicy meat, as it allows the juices to redistribute before serving.
How to Make 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
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Spicy Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 45 minutes to an hour. You’ll spend a short 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and marinating the pork chops. The actual cooking time is around 10-15 minutes on the grill, and then allow for a 5-minute resting period. Perfect for a quick yet delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
First, take your pork chops and pat them dry with some paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. This will be your savory marinade. Coat the pork chops evenly with this mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or you can refrigerate them for up to 2 hours if you have time. This marinating step will make your chops extra flavorful!
2. Make the Spicy Peach Glaze:
While the pork chops are marinating, let’s make that delicious glaze! In a small saucepan, combine the peach preserves, sriracha sauce, apple cider vinegar, and mustard. Place the pan over medium-low heat, stirring gently until the peach preserves melt and everything is nicely combined. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. After that, remove it from the heat and set aside about half of it for serving later.
3. Preheat the Grill:
It’s now time to get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat. This will give you the perfect cooking environment for those juicy pork chops.
4. Grill the Pork Chops:
Once the grill is hot, place your marinated pork chops directly on the grill. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until you can see those beautiful grill marks. When it’s time, flip the chops over and brush on some of the spicy peach glaze. Continue grilling for another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C). Yum!
5. Rest the Chops:
After grilling, take the pork chops off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period is super important as it helps the juices redistribute within the meat, keeping your chops tender and juicy!
6. Serve:
Serve your perfectly grilled pork chops with the reserved spicy peach glaze on the side. If you’d like to add a special touch, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Enjoy your flavorful and juicy grilled pork chops with that sweet and spicy notes of peach glaze!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While bone-in pork chops provide great flavor and moisture, you can use boneless pork chops or even pork tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thinner cuts will cook faster. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Peach Preserves?
No problem! You can substitute peach preserves with any fruit preserves (like apricot or mango) for a similarly sweet and fruity glaze. If you want a bit more spice, consider adding a touch of additional sriracha or even some chopped jalapeños to the mix!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, try increasing the amount of sriracha in the glaze. Alternatively, you can mix in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you’re grilling the pork chops for an extra kick. Just be sure to taste as you go!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Definitely! Marinating them overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to keep them in the fridge during this time to keep the meat safe. Take them out about 20 minutes before grilling to allow them to come to room temperature for more even cooking.
