Juicy Skillet Cooked Lamb Chops: 4 Quick Tips

Skillet cooked lamb chops have become my go-to for a quick yet impressive weeknight meal. I remember the first time I tried making them, I was worried they’d turn out tough or bland, but my friend shared her simple trick for getting them perfectly juicy. The smell of the herbs and garlic sizzling in the pan, followed by the rich, savory flavor of the lamb, is just divine. This truly is an easy skillet lamb chop recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Skillet Cooked Lamb Chops

This recipe for skillet cooked lamb chops is an absolute winner for so many reasons:

• The taste is simply divine – a beautiful balance of savory lamb, bright lemon, and aromatic Greek herbs.
• You get incredibly juicy skillet lamb chops thanks to the quick cooking time and simple marinade.
• It’s surprisingly quick! From start to finish, you’re looking at under an hour, making it perfect for busy nights.
• The ingredients are relatively budget-friendly, especially when lamb is on sale.
• It’s a healthy choice, packed with protein and healthy fats from the lamb and olive oil.
• The vibrant Mediterranean flavors make for a truly flavorful skillet lamb chops experience.
• Even picky eaters tend to love these tender, well-seasoned chops.
• It feels fancy enough for guests but is simple enough for a weeknight treat.

Ingredients for Skillet Cooked Lamb Chops

Gather these simple ingredients for a taste of the Mediterranean:

• 4 lamb loin chops (1-1.5 inches thick) – these are tender and cook quickly
• 3 tablespoons olive oil – forms the base of our delicious marinade
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon – adds a bright, zesty counterpoint to the rich lamb
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – essential for that classic savory flavor
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – for a little kick
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – always season generously
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese – for a salty, creamy topping
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill – adds a burst of freshness
• Lemon wedges for serving

The olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs create the perfect skillet lamb chops marinade, infusing the meat with incredible flavor before it even hits the pan.

How to Make Skillet Cooked Lamb Chops

Let’s turn these beautiful lamb chops into a culinary masterpiece right on your stovetop. This method ensures a perfect sear and incredibly tender meat.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, let’s focus on preparing the lamb.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 3 tablespoons olive oil, fresh lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, fresh oregano, fresh rosemary, dried thyme, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Season this glorious marinade generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Step 3: Rub this flavorful marinade all over your 4 lamb loin chops. Cover the bowl and let them chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for even deeper flavor. This is a key step in developing that amazing taste.
4. Step 4: Before you start cooking, take the marinated lamb chops out of the fridge. Letting them sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes helps them cook more evenly.
5. Step 5: Heat a cast iron skillet or any heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. You want it screaming hot – this is crucial for a great sear! Add a small splash of olive oil to the hot pan.
6. Step 6: Carefully lay the lamb chops into the hot skillet. Listen for that satisfying sizzle! Sear them undisturbed for 4–5 minutes on the first side until a beautiful, golden-brown crust forms. This is how to cook lamb chops in a skillet for maximum flavor.
7. Step 7: Flip the lamb chops and cook for another 3–4 minutes. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130–135°F (54–57°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Adjust this time slightly for your preferred doneness.
8. Step 8: Once cooked to perfection, transfer the skillet lamb chops to a plate. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for 5–7 minutes. This resting period is vital for juicy, tender meat.
9. Step 9: Finally, top your beautifully seared lamb chops with the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley or dill. Serving them with fresh lemon wedges adds a final bright touch. You’ve just mastered how to get a good sear on lamb chops!

Pro Tips for the Best Skillet Cooked Lamb Chops

Want to elevate your lamb chop game? These insider tips will ensure your skillet cooked lamb chops are always a hit:

• Always use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet for the most even heat and best sear.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect crust on your pan-fried lamb chops.
• A meat thermometer is your best friend for nailing the perfect internal temperature every time.
• Letting the lamb chops rest after cooking is non-negotiable for maximum juiciness.

What’s the secret to perfect pan seared lamb chops?

The absolute key is a screaming hot pan and not moving the chops too soon! This ensures you get that beautiful, flavorful crust – essential for how to get a good sear on lamb chops and incredibly tasty pan seared lamb chops. For more on achieving the perfect sear, check out this guide on searing techniques.

Can I make skillet lamb chops ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare the marinade and coat the lamb chops up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate them. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before searing for optimal results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with skillet lamb chops?

Avoid overcooking by using a thermometer and don’t skip the resting period. Also, ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the chops to prevent them from steaming instead of searing. For more tips on avoiding cooking pitfalls, you might find this article on common cooking mistakes helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Skillet Cooked Lamb Chops

These flavorful skillet lamb chops are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. For a truly satisfying skillet lamb chops for dinner, I love pairing them with a classic Greek salad. The cool, crisp vegetables and tangy feta complement the rich lamb beautifully. Another fantastic option is roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, seasoned with herbs and olive oil. For a lighter meal, serve them alongside a vibrant quinoa or couscous salad with fresh herbs and lemon. No matter how you serve them, these lamb chops are sure to impress!

Nutrition Facts for Skillet Cooked Lamb Chops

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional information per serving for these delicious skillet lamb chops. Remember, these are approximate values.

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

How to Store and Reheat Skillet Cooked Lamb Chops

Leftover skillet cooked lamb chops are a treat, and thankfully, they store and reheat beautifully. Once they’ve cooled down completely, place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option; wrap them well and they can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. For a quick and easy reheat, consider this pan-fried lamb chops recipe easy method: gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to help them stay moist. You can also reheat them in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C), until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Skillet Cooked Lamb Chops

What is the best way to cook lamb chops?

For tender, flavorful results, pan-searing in a hot skillet is one of the best ways to cook lamb chops. This method, like the one for our skillet cooked lamb chops, allows you to achieve a beautiful crust while keeping the inside perfectly juicy. It’s quick and allows for great control over the final temperature. For more ideas on quick meals, check out these latest recipes.

How long to cook lamb chops in a skillet?

The cooking time really depends on the thickness of your chops and your desired doneness. For 1 to 1.5-inch thick chops, like in this recipe, about 4-5 minutes per side is a good starting point for medium-rare. Always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 130–135°F (54–57°C) for medium-rare, ensuring you don’t overcook them.

Can I use other herbs in my skillet lamb chops?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses a classic Greek blend, feel free to experiment. Thyme, sage, or even a touch of mint can be delicious. The key is not to overpower the natural flavor of the lamb but to enhance it. This recipe for pan-fried lamb chops is very forgiving. You might also enjoy exploring different flavor profiles in our sauces and marinades section.

How do I ensure my skillet lamb chops are juicy?

The secret to juicy lamb chops lies in a few key steps: don’t skip the marinade, let the chops come to room temperature before cooking, sear them on high heat to create a flavorful crust, and most importantly, let them rest for at least 5-7 minutes after cooking. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Variations of Skillet Cooked Lamb Chops You Can Try

While this Greek-inspired recipe is absolutely delicious, don’t be afraid to get creative with your skillet lamb chops! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Flavor Swap: Instead of Greek spices, try a classic rosemary and garlic combination for a more traditional taste. Or, for a touch of sweetness, add a tablespoon of honey to your marinade. Exploring different skillet lamb chops with herbs can lead to exciting new flavor profiles. Consider trying our garlic honey lime chicken for a sweet and savory inspiration.
• Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. This makes for wonderfully spicy pan-seared lamb chops.
• Alternative Cooking Method: While we love cooking lamb chops in a cast iron skillet, you could also finish them in the oven if you prefer. Sear them on the stovetop for a few minutes per side, then transfer the skillet to a preheated oven (around 400°F/200°C) to finish cooking to your desired doneness.
• Marinade Magic: Experiment with marinades like a balsamic glaze, a soy-ginger mixture, or even a simple lemon-herb blend. Each variation offers a unique twist on the classic best skillet lamb chops recipe.

Juicy Skillet Cooked Lamb Chops: 4 Quick Tips

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to cook lamb chops in a skillet for a quick and flavorful meal. This recipe features Greek spices and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 lamb loin chops (1–1.5 inches thick)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
• Lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, oregano, rosemary, thyme, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper.
2. Rub the marinade generously over the lamb loin chops. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours.
3. Before cooking, let the marinated lamb chops sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.
4. Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until very hot.
5. Add a touch of olive oil to the hot pan. Carefully lay in the lamb chops, searing for 4–5 minutes on the first side until a crust forms.
6. Flip the lamb chops and cook for another 3–4 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature of 130–135°F). Adjust cooking time for desired doneness.
7. Transfer the cooked lamb chops to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5–7 minutes.
8. Top the skillet lamb chops with crumbled feta, chopped parsley or dill, and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

• A well-seasoned cast iron skillet provides the best sear.
• Using a meat thermometer is recommended to ensure proper doneness.
• For deeper flavor, marinate the lamb chops for up to 4 hours.
• Cook lamb chops in batches if your pan is too crowded.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 lamb chops
• Calories: N/A
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: N/A
• Fat: N/A
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Unsaturated Fat: N/A
• Trans Fat: N/A
• Carbohydrates: N/A
• Fiber: N/A
• Protein: N/A
• Cholesterol: N/A

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