Grill Lamb Chops Recipe

Juicy Grilled Lamb Chops Recipe: Sizzling Backyard Delight

A summer barbecue takes these succulent lamb chops to new heights of deliciousness.

Marinating meat intensifies every rich, complex flavor before cooking.

Mediterranean herbs and spices create an irresistible aroma that drifts through backyard gatherings.

Tender cuts sizzle with a perfect caramelized exterior while maintaining incredible juiciness inside.

Pairing becomes simple with complementary side dishes that balance the robust protein.

Friends will devour these perfectly seasoned chops straight from the grill.

You can impress everyone with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Let’s make magic happen with this simple yet stunning recipe.

Ingredients Breakdown for Grill Lamb Chops

Marinade Ingredients:
  • Olive Oil: Helps distribute flavors and prevents lamb from sticking to grill.
  • Rosemary: Adds herbal, fragrant flavor that complements lamb's richness.
  • Garlic: Provides deep, aromatic flavor with a slight pungent kick.
  • Lemon Juice: Tenderizes meat and adds bright, citrusy notes.
Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and helps meat brown properly.
  • Black Pepper: Adds mild heat and earthy spice to the lamb.
Lamb Ingredients:
  • Lamb Chops: Prime cut of meat with tender texture and rich flavor. Best when fresh and evenly sized.
Optional Garnish:
  • Extra Rosemary: Fresh herbs for visual appeal and additional flavor.
  • Lemon Wedges: Adds zesty freshness and helps cut through the meat's richness.

Cooking Grill Lamb Chops the Simple Way

Step 1: Prepare Flavorful Marinade

Whisk together in a large bowl or sealed plastic bag:
  • Olive oil
  • Fresh rosemary leaves
  • Minced garlic cloves
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Kosher salt
  • Cracked black pepper

Submerge lamb chops completely in the marinade. Allow flavors to mingle at room temperature for half an hour or refrigerate up to four hours for deeper taste infusion.

Step 2: Fire Up The Grill

Preheat barbecue to medium-high heat. Lightly brush grill grates with cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill To Perfection

Remove lamb chops from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place directly on hot grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Aim for an internal temperature between 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Rest And Garnish

Transfer grilled chops to a clean platter. Let meat rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices. Optionally garnish with extra rosemary sprigs or fresh lemon wedges for brightness.

Serve immediately and enjoy your succulent lamb chops!

Lamb Chop Tips for the Grill

  • Optimize Marination Time: Let lamb chops marinate for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator to maximize flavor absorption and tenderize the meat effectively.
  • Check Doneness Precisely: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect medium-rare at 130-135°F, preventing overcooking and maintaining juicy texture.
  • Enhance Grilling Surface: Lightly oil grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking and create beautiful grill marks on the lamb chops.
  • Rest for Maximum Juiciness: Allow grilled lamb chops to rest for 5 minutes after cooking, which helps redistribute juices and keep the meat tender and flavorful.
  • Customize Herb Options: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or mint as alternatives to rosemary for a unique flavor profile and personal touch.

Safe Storage for Grilled Lamb Chops

  • Store leftover lamb chops in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Warm chops in a preheated oven at 275°F for 10-15 minutes to prevent drying out, covering with foil to retain moisture.
  • Use short 30-second intervals at 50% power, checking temperature to avoid overcooking and maintain tenderness.
  • Add a splash of broth or olive oil when reheating to help preserve the lamb's juicy texture and prevent it from becoming tough.

Enjoy Grill Lamb Chops with These Sides

  • Complement the rich, savory lamb with full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, or Malbec, which have robust tannins that match the meat's intense flavor.
  • Serve alongside Greek-inspired sides like tzatziki, roasted vegetables with herbs, or a fresh Greek salad to enhance the Mediterranean essence of the grilled lamb chops.
  • Highlight the rosemary and garlic marinade by adding fresh herb garnishes like mint, parsley, or thyme, which add brightness and complement the lamb's deep, smoky grilled notes.
  • For those preferring white wine, choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio with herbal undertones that can cut through the lamb's richness while maintaining a refreshing balance.

Lamb Chop Variations on the Grill

  • Mediterranean-Style Lamb: Replace rosemary with oregano and add crumbled feta cheese. Serve with tzatziki sauce for an authentic Greek flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Herbal Lamb: Swap olive oil with avocado oil for higher heat tolerance. Use fresh thyme instead of rosemary and add cracked black pepper for extra zest.
  • Gluten-Free Herb Infusion: Ensure all marinade ingredients are certified gluten-free. Add mint leaves for a fresh, cooling element and serve with a light cucumber salad.
  • Spicy Middle Eastern Version: Incorporate ground cumin, smoked paprika, and a touch of cayenne pepper into the marinade. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with harissa sauce for heat lovers.

Grill Lamb Chops FAQ Corner

  • How do I know when lamb chops are perfectly cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F. For medium, target 140-145°F. The color should be pink in the center with a nicely browned exterior.

  • Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried rosemary. Use about 1/3 the amount of dried compared to fresh. Dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, so adjust accordingly to prevent overpowering the lamb.

  • What's the best way to prevent lamb chops from sticking to the grill?

Ensure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled before cooking. Pat the lamb chops dry before grilling and let them come to room temperature. This helps create a nice sear and prevents sticking.

  • Is it necessary to let lamb chops rest after grilling?

Absolutely. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a more tender and flavorful result. Let the chops rest for about 5 minutes before serving to lock in moisture and maximize taste.

Grill Lamb Chops Full of Rich Flavor

  • Marinating lamb chops for just 30 minutes infuses incredible taste without hours of prep work.
  • Achieving restaurant-quality lamb chops becomes effortless with basic grill techniques and minimal ingredients.
  • From start to finish, this recipe takes less than 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or spontaneous weekend gatherings.
  • Suitable for intimate family meals or elegant dinner parties, these lamb chops impress guests while remaining straightforward to prepare.
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Grill Lamb Chops Recipe

Grill Lamb Chops Recipe


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4.8 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Sizzling Mediterranean lamb chops bring robust flavors from classic Greek seasoning to your dinner table. Juicy, herb-crusted meat delivers robust Mediterranean elegance with each tender bite you will savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 8 lamb chops (rib or loin, about 1-inch thick)

Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Liquid and Oils:

  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Prepare a flavorful marinade by whisking together fragrant olive oil, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, zesty lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag.
  2. Submerge lamb chops completely in the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Allow the meat to absorb flavors at room temperature for half an hour, or refrigerate up to four hours for deeper infusion.
  3. Preheat outdoor grill to medium-high heat, creating an ideal cooking environment. Lightly brush grill grates with oil to prevent sticking and promote beautiful grill marks.
  4. Remove lamb chops from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place chops directly on hot grill grates with gentle precision.
  5. Cook lamb chops for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, aiming for a perfect medium-rare doneness with an internal temperature between 130-135°F. Adjust cooking time slightly for personal preference of meat doneness.
  6. Once grilled to perfection, transfer lamb chops to a clean platter and let them rest for 5 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
  7. Garnish with additional fresh rosemary sprigs or serve alongside bright lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrusy flavor. Present and enjoy your expertly grilled lamb chops.

Notes

  • Ensure lamb chops are at room temperature before grilling to promote even cooking and prevent tough meat.
  • Pat chops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, helping achieve a perfect sear and beautiful grill marks.
  • Experiment with alternative herbs like thyme or mint for different flavor profiles that complement the rich lamb taste.
  • For gluten-free and low-carb diets, this marinade naturally fits without modifications, making it a versatile protein option.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg
Ethan Miller

Ethan Miller

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Food Photography and Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Blogging
  • Ingredient Sourcing and Sustainability Practices

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and food safety protocols.

Culinary Institute of the Pacific

  • Program: Certificate in International Cuisine
  • Focus: Exploration of global culinary traditions, flavor profiles, and plating artistry.

Ethan’s culinary journey began in his grandmother’s kitchen, where he first learned to play with flavors and ingredients. With formal training in culinary arts and a deep love for international cuisines, Ethan’s goal is to share the joy of cooking with others.

He believes food is all about creativity and bringing people together, one meal at a time. When he’s not experimenting with new dishes, he enjoys hiking in the Oregon wilderness and discovering fresh, local ingredients.

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