Grilled Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops

Grilled Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops: they sound fancy, right? But guess what? They’re easier to make than you think! You’ll impress your family and friends with this delicious and elegant meal. The juicy lamb chops are coated in a flavorful herb crust that becomes crispy and golden brown on the grill. Get ready for a taste explosion!

Lamb has been a favorite food for centuries in many different cultures. From Greek feasts to Middle Eastern kabobs, it’s a special occasion meat. We’re going to use a unique blend of herbs and spices to make our lamb chops extra special. It’s a secret recipe passed down in my family, and I can’t wait to share it with you! This herb mixture will make your lamb sing with flavor.

Why These Grilled Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops Are Special

Our special herb and spice blend creates a flavor explosion in your mouth! Rosemary, thyme, and garlic all play together to make a delicious crust. The savory, juicy lamb combined with the aromatic herbs creates the perfect balance. You won’t find this flavor combination anywhere else!

Ingredients and Equipment

Let’s gather everything we need to make these amazing Grilled Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready makes cooking much smoother.

Lamb Chops

• 1 pound lamb rib chops or loin chops, about 1-inch thick. Thicker chops will need longer cooking times.
• Look for lamb with a bright red color and firm texture. Ask your butcher for recommendations! Quality lamb makes a big difference in flavor.

Herb Crust

• 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried) – Rosemary adds a woodsy, piney aroma.
• 1/4 cup fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried) – Thyme brings an earthy, slightly lemony flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic provides a pungent and savory kick.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – This adds a tangy depth to the crust.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps the herbs adhere to the lamb and promotes browning.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of spice.
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat! If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs work well too. Just use half the amount.

Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal) or a grill pan for indoor cooking
• Meat thermometer – This is crucial for checking doneness!
• Tongs for flipping the chops
• Small bowls for mixing ingredients
• Food processor or mortar and pestle for finely chopping herbs (if you prefer a finer crust). A good knife works great too!

Want a different flavor profile? Check out my recipe for The Ultimate Cheesecake Brownies!

Preparing the Herb Crust and Lamb Chops

Now that we have all our ingredients and tools, let’s get cooking! This part is all about prepping the star of the show – the lamb chops – and creating that flavorful herb crust.

Making the Herb Crust

First, let’s make the herb crust. This is where the magic happens! If you’re using fresh herbs, finely chop them. You can use a food processor for a super fine crust, a mortar and pestle for a more rustic texture, or just a sharp knife. If using dried herbs, remember you need less than fresh.

1. In a small bowl, combine the chopped rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper (and red pepper flakes if using).
2. Mix everything together until it forms a paste. This paste will stick beautifully to the lamb chops.
3. Pro Tip: For a smoother paste, you can give it a quick pulse in a food processor. But a little texture is good too! Remember, dried herbs are stronger than fresh, so use about half as much.

Preparing the Lamb Chops

Now let’s get those lamb chops ready.

1. If your lamb chops have a thick layer of fat, you can trim some of it off, but leave a little for flavor!
2. Optional Marinade: You can marinate the lamb chops for extra flavor and tenderness. We’ll talk more about marinades later. But if you’re short on time, skipping the marinade is perfectly fine.
3. Before applying the herb crust, pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels. This helps the crust stick better and get nice and crispy on the grill. A dry surface is key for a good crust!
4. 

Grilling the Lamb Chops

Time to fire up the grill! Grilling gives these lamb chops a delicious smoky flavor and beautiful sear marks.

Looking for a hearty breakfast option to complement this dish? Try my Ultimate Breakfast Casserole.

Setting up the Grill

Whether you’re using a gas or charcoal grill, we want a hot grill for cooking our lamb chops!

• Gas Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F.
• Charcoal Grill: Light the charcoal and let it burn until the coals are covered with white ash. This takes about 15-20 minutes. You should be able to hold your hand about 6 inches above the grill grate for only 3-4 seconds.

A hot grill is important for searing the lamb quickly and creating those nice grill marks. If your grill has a warmer section, that’s great for slower cooking if needed. This lets you sear the chops over high heat and then move them to a cooler spot to finish cooking without burning.

Grilling Technique

Now, let’s grill those lamb chops!

1. Place the lamb chops on the hot grill grate. Don’t overcrowd the grill! Leave some space between the chops for even cooking.
2. Sear the chops for 2-3 minutes per side to get a nice crust. You should hear a satisfying sizzle!
3. For medium-rare (130-135°F), grill 1-inch thick chops for about 4-5 minutes per side. Thicker chops will need a few more minutes. For medium (140-145°F) add a couple more minutes per side.
4. Use a meat thermometer! This is the most accurate way to know when your lamb is cooked perfectly. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chop, avoiding the bone.
5. If the chops are browning too quickly, move them to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking.

These lamb chops would pair wonderfully with some Crispy Fried Cornbread! Give it a try.

Resting and Serving

Once the lamb chops are cooked to your liking, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the lamb more tender and flavorful. Trust me, resting is important! Don’t skip this step!

Serve your delicious Grilled Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops with your favorite sides. Roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes all make great pairings. Enjoy!

For a fun, sweet treat, check out these Mini Cinnamon Rolls. They are surprisingly easy to make!

Tips and Variations

Let’s explore some tips for perfectly cooked lamb chops and exciting flavor variations to customize your dish!

Achieving Different Doneness Levels

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your lamb chops are cooked exactly how you like them. Here’s a temperature guide:

• Rare: 125-130°F (very pink center)
• Medium-Rare: 130-135°F (warm pink center) – This is how I like my lamb chops!
• Medium: 140-145°F (light pink center)
• Well-Done: 160°F and above (no pink)

To use a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the lamb chop, making sure not to touch the bone. The bone conducts heat and can give you a false reading.

Alternative Herb Combinations

Feel free to get creative with the herb crust! Here are some ideas:

• Mediterranean: Use oregano, mint, and lemon zest for a bright and fresh flavor.
• Italian: Try basil, parsley, and garlic powder for a classic Italian taste.
• Middle Eastern: Combine cumin, coriander, and paprika for a warm and aromatic blend.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Use your favorite herbs and spices to create your own signature blend. What flavors do you enjoy? You can tailor this recipe to your own tastes!

If you’re looking for a decadent dessert to follow this meal, you might enjoy this Chocolate Raspberry Tart from Love and Lemons.

Pan-Seared or Oven-Baked Options

No grill? No problem! You can still enjoy delicious herb-crusted lamb chops.

Pan-Seared: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lamb chops for 3-4 minutes per side, then reduce heat to medium and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until desired doneness.

Oven-Baked (“Oven Grilled”): Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until desired doneness is reached. For a crispier crust, broil the chops for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn! Remember to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness no matter which cooking method you choose.

For a lighter side dish, Love and Lemons has a great Roasted Vegetable Recipe that pairs well with lamb.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s address some common questions about making Grilled Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops.

Grilled Herb Crusted Lamb Chops Marinade

A simple marinade can add even more flavor and tenderness to your lamb chops. Try this: combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Marinate the lamb chops for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. The acid in the lemon juice helps tenderize the meat while the other ingredients add flavor.

Oven Grilled Herb Crusted Lamb Chops

To get that “grilled” flavor in the oven, use the broiler! Preheat your broiler to high. Place the lamb chops on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes per side, then reduce the oven temperature to 400°F and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until desired doneness. The high heat from the broiler will create a nice sear, similar to grilling.

Herb Crusted Lamb Chops Gordon Ramsay

Gordon Ramsay often uses a combination of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic in his lamb chop recipes, much like this one! He emphasizes searing the lamb in a hot pan before finishing it in the oven. He also often adds a red wine reduction sauce. While our recipe focuses on grilling for a smoky flavor, the emphasis on fresh herbs and a good sear are similar.

Crusted Lamb Chops Recipe

Besides herb crusts, you can try other delicious coatings for your lamb chops. Breadcrumb crusts, made with panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, create a crispy and flavorful exterior. You can also experiment with nut crusts, using finely chopped almonds, pecans, or pistachios for a crunchy and nutty flavor. There are endless possibilities for creating flavorful and textured crusts!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Making Grilled Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal at home. The flavorful herb crust and juicy lamb are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Don’t be intimidated! Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out. Share your photos and comments below. For a complete meal, serve these delicious lamb chops with roasted asparagus and a side of creamy mashed potatoes. You’ll have a feast fit for a king! Enjoy!

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