Greek Lamb Chops

This Greek Lamb Chops Recipe is made with lamb chops seasoned with a Greek oregano marinade and served with mint sauce.

In Greece, lamb is a cherished meat, and lamb chops hold a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts. The combination of aromatic oregano, tangy lemon, fragrant garlic, and the freshness of mint leaves creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly complement the rich and tender meat. Grilling or pan-searing the lamb chops imparts a beautiful char and smoky essence that enhances their natural juiciness. As you take your first bite, you'll be transported to the sun-drenched hills of Greece, savoring the essence of the Mediterranean in every tender morsel.

Whether you're hosting a special gathering or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, Greek lamb chops are a culinary delight that never fails to impress. So, get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure, embracing the vibrant flavors of Greece with every savory bite of these delectable lamb chops.

If you love lamb chops, you need to try my Rack of Lamb in Air Fryer and my Grilled Lamb Chops Recipe.

Jump to:

• What are Greek Lamb Chops?
• Why you will love this recipe
• Greek Lamb Chops Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Greek Lamb Chops
• What to serve with Greek Lamb Chops
• Substitutions
• Greek Lamb Chops Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Greek Lamb Chops
• Greek Lamb Chops Recipe Top tips
• Greek Lamb Chops Recipe
• Food safety

What are Greek Lamb Chops?

Greek lamb chops are a popular and flavorful dish originating from Greece. They consist of lamb chops that are seasoned with traditional Greek herbs and spices, then cooked to perfection. Lamb is a significant part of Greek cuisine, and lamb chops are a prime example of the country's culinary prowess.

The lamb chops used for this dish are typically cuts from the rib or loin, prized for their tenderness and rich flavor. Greek lamb chops are known for their succulence and juicy texture, making them a favorite among meat lovers. The key to the distinct taste of Greek lamb chops lies in the seasoning. Greek cuisine often incorporates herbs and spices such as oregano, garlic, lemon, and mint. These flavors infuse the lamb chops, giving them a delightful Mediterranean twist.

Why you will love this recipe

• Flavorful and aromatic: The combination of Greek herbs and spices like oregano, garlic, and lemon infuses the lamb chops with a burst of Mediterranean flavors. Each bite is a tantalizing blend of savory, tangy, and herbaceous notes that will delight your taste buds.
• Tender and juicy: Lamb chops are known for their tenderness, and this recipe ensures that the meat remains moist and juicy. Whether grilled or pan-seared, you can expect a succulent texture that is incredibly satisfying.
• Quick and easy: This recipe is straightforward and doesn't require complex techniques or lengthy preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Versatile: Greek lamb chops are versatile and can be served in various ways. They make an impressive main course for a special dinner, a flavorful addition to a Greek-themed feast, or a delightful weeknight meal for a meat lover.

Greek Lamb Chops Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Lamb chops
• Olive oil
• Oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Mint leaves
• Lemon

See recipe card for Greek Lamb Chops Recipe quantities.

How to make Greek Lamb Chops

What to serve with Greek Lamb Chops

• Greek Salad: A classic accompaniment to Greek lamb chops, a refreshing Greek salad combines crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Toss it with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing for a vibrant and light side dish.
• Tzatziki Sauce: Since you're already making tzatziki, serve it alongside the lamb chops as a dipping sauce or drizzle it over the meat. Its cool and creamy nature provides a lovely contrast to the rich and flavorful lamb.
• Roasted Potatoes: Greek-style roasted potatoes seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano make a delicious and hearty side dish. The lemon and herbs in the potatoes complement the flavors of the lamb chops perfectly.

Substitutions

• Lamb Chops: Lamb loin chops or lamb rib chops can be used as alternatives to lamb chops.
• Olive Oil: Avocado oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil can be used instead of olive oil.
• Oregano: If you don't have oregano, you can use dried thyme or dried rosemary as substitutes. These herbs offer similar earthy and aromatic flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: These seasonings can be adjusted based on personal preference, but if you prefer to try something different, you can use garlic powder, onion powder, or a blend of herbs and spices like Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence.
• Mint Leaves: Fresh basil leaves can be used as a substitute for mint leaves. Basil has a slightly different flavor but still adds freshness and a hint of herbal notes to the dish.
• Lemon: If you don't have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. Alternatively, you can try using other citrus fruits like lime or orange zest for a different flavor profile.

Greek Lamb Chops Recipe Variations

• Greek-style Marinated Lamb Chops: Marinate the lamb chops in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper for at least 2 hours or overnight. Grill or pan-sear the chops until cooked to your desired doneness. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce and lemon wedges.
• Lemon and Herb Lamb Chops: Season the lamb chops with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and grated lemon zest. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chops before grilling or pan-searing. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
• Greek-style Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops: Create a flavorful herb crust by combining dried oregano, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Press the mixture onto the lamb chops and roast or grill until golden brown and cooked to your liking.
• Mint and Yogurt Marinated Lamb Chops: Make a marinade with plain yogurt, minced garlic, chopped fresh mint, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Coat the lamb chops with the marinade and let them sit for at least 2 hours before grilling or broiling. The yogurt tenderizes the meat while infusing it with tangy and minty flavors.

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Equipment

To make Greek lamb chops, you will need the following equipment:

• Grill or Grill Pan: A grill or grill pan is essential for cooking the lamb chops. It provides direct heat and gives the meat a delicious smoky flavor. If using a grill pan, make sure it is stovetop-safe and has ridges to create grill marks.
• Tongs: Tongs are handy for flipping the lamb chops while they're cooking. They allow you to handle the meat easily and ensure even cooking on both sides.
• Cutting Board: A cutting board is needed for prepping the lamb chops, such as seasoning them and allowing them to rest before cooking. It provides a clean and stable surface to work on.
• Knife: You'll need a sharp knife to trim any excess fat from the lamb chops and make precise cuts if needed.
• Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is useful for preparing any marinades or seasoning mixtures for the lamb chops. It allows you to combine the ingredients thoroughly before applying them to the meat.
• Measuring Spoons: Measuring spoons come in handy for accurately measuring the quantities of ingredients, such as herbs and spices, in your marinades or seasoning blends.
• Plate or Platter: Once the lamb chops are cooked to perfection, you'll need a plate or platter to transfer them to for serving. This provides a neat and presentable presentation.

How to store Greek Lamb Chops

To properly store Greek lamb chops, follow these guidelines:

1. Refrigeration: After cooking, allow the lamb chops to cool down to room temperature for about 1 hour. Then, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
2. Date and label: It's a good practice to label the container or wrap with the date of storage. This will help you keep track of freshness and ensure timely consumption.
3. Refrigerator storage: Store the lamb chops in the refrigerator and consume them within 3-4 days. It's important to maintain a refrigerator temperature below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth and food spoilage.
4. Freezing: If you want to store the lamb chops for a longer period, you can freeze them. Wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and remove as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen lamb chops can typically be stored for up to 3 months.
5. Thawing: When ready to use, transfer frozen lamb chops from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw them using the defrost setting on your microwave if you need them more quickly. Once thawed, cook the lamb chops immediately and do not refreeze them.
6. Quality check: Before consuming the stored lamb chops, inspect them for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, unusual texture, or discoloration. If any doubt, it's best to discard them to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Greek Lamb Chops Recipe Top tips

• Choose quality lamb chops: Opt for high-quality lamb chops from a reputable source. Look for well-marbled meat with a pinkish-red color, indicating freshness.
• Marinate for flavor: Marinating the lamb chops before cooking can enhance their taste and tenderness. Use a marinade with ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and other Greek herbs and spices. Let the lamb chops marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
• Bring to room temperature: Before cooking, allow the marinated lamb chops to come to room temperature. This ensures more even cooking and prevents the meat from being too cold, which can affect the cooking time.
• Preheat the grill or grill pan: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat before placing the lamb chops on it. This helps achieve a nice sear and locks in the juices.
• Oil the grill or pan: Brush some oil on the grill grates or the grill pan before cooking to prevent sticking and ensure easy flipping of the lamb chops.
• Monitor cooking time: Lamb chops cook relatively quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chops and your desired level of doneness.
• Rest before serving: Once cooked, let the lamb chops rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in tender, succulent meat.
• Garnish and serve with traditional accompaniments: Sprinkle fresh herbs like mint or parsley over the lamb chops for added freshness. Serve them with classic Greek sides like tzatziki sauce, lemon wedges, Greek salad, or roasted potatoes to complete the meal.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.