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Lamb Chops Recipe: How To Make Flavorful Lamb Every Time

Perfectly seared lamb chops ready to serve—discover this irresistible lamb chops recipe.

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Pan-seared lamb chops cooked to perfection and finished with a bright lemon-thyme butter sauce. This elegant dish is full of rich flavor and makes for an impressive yet approachable main course.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 lamb chops (about 1-inch thick)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (plus 1 sprig for sauce)
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Remove the lamb chops from the refrigerator. Massage the chopped thyme, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper into the meat. Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes.
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add lamb chops and cook until a brown crust forms on the bottom, 4–6 minutes (up to 10 minutes for thicker chops).
  3. Flip the lamb chops and continue to cook until an instant-read thermometer reads 145°F in the thickest part, 4–6 minutes more.
  4. Transfer lamb chops to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of rendered fat from the pan.
  5. Reduce heat to medium. Add shallot, garlic, and thyme sprig to the skillet. Cook until shallot softens and starts to brown, about 1 minute.
  6. Deglaze with wine or broth and lemon juice, scraping any browned bits from the pan. Cook until reduced by half, about 1–2 minutes.
  7. Stir in lemon zest, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons butter. Cook until butter melts and sauce thickens slightly, about 1 minute. Taste and adjust seasoning. Pour sauce over lamb chops and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Letting lamb come to room temperature ensures even cooking.
  • For best flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest.
  • Resting lamb under foil keeps it juicy and tender.
  • Use a thermometer for perfect doneness (145°F for medium-rare).

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