Published 12/20/2021 • Updated 6/24/2022 In this post, we’ll teach you how to cook lamb chops perfectly every single time.
Fancy (but easy!) Dinner is Served
That’s right! These pan seared lamb chops may look intimidating, but we’re here to share that although this recipe looks fancy-schmancy, it is oh so easy to make. In this post we’re sharing our pro tips for perfectly cooked lamb chops as well as some serving suggestions to round out an amazing dinner.
Lamb Chops — Everything You Need to Know
Ingredients – What You Need
The ingredients you need for these pan seared lamb chops are relatively simple. It’s time to round up:
For the lamb chops
Bone-in lamb chops Paprika Dried thyme Kosher saltPepper Brown sugar Minced garlic clovesOlive oil
For the aioli
Greek yogurt Mayo Salt Cayenne pepper Honey Lemon juice
How to Cook Lamb Chops
For the full recipe, scroll down to the recipe card for a list of ingredients and instructions.
Prepare lamb dry rub
Place dry rub ingredients in a small bowl and mix until well combined. Then, place the lamb chops in a baking dish with sides and sprinkle half the dry rub over the lamb chops, flip the lamb, and sprinkle the remaining dry rub over the other side. Pat the dry rub into the lamb.
Drizzle with Olive Oil & Marinate Overnight
Drizzle olive oil over the lamb chops and then add the garlic. Move the lamb chops around so they are covered in olive oil and garlic. Then, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and place the lamb chops in the fridge to marinate overnight.
Prepare Aioli
Remove the lamb chops from the fridge and let them come to room temperature before cooking. Meanwhile, place all the ingredients for the aioli into a bowl and stir until well combined. Don’t have time? Marinate the lamb chops for at least 4 hours.
Pan Sear Lamb Chops
Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat and add olive oil to the cast iron. When the olive oil is fragrant and sizzling, add half the lamb chops to the cast iron skillet, and cook the lamb chops for 2-3 minutes on each side for a medium-rare lamb chop. The outside of the lamb chops should be browned. Then, remove the lamb chops from the cast iron and let them rest.
Serve & Enjoy
While the lamb chops are resting, spread the aioli out on a serving platter and then place the lamb chops on top of the aioli. Garnish the lamb chops with fresh mint and ENJOY.
What to Serve with Lamb Chops
Round out the perfect meal with any of these delicious side dish options that pair well with lamb chops: So, below you will find internal temperatures corresponding to doneness:
120ºF – rare125ºF – medium rare130ºF – medium145+ºF – well done
Remember to always let your lamb chops rest for at least 5 minutes after removing them from heat so they can continue to rise in temperature by 5ºF.
How to Store Leftover Lamb Chops
Our biggest tip when storing lamb chops is to let them cool completely before refrigerating. So, let the chops cool, transfer into an airtight container, and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.