Indulge in the savory goodness of our Easy Oven Baked Lamb Chops, a dish that’s perfect for both special occasions and everyday dinners. These lamb chops are seasoned to perfection and baked until tender and juicy, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. Let’s get started on this simple yet delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 8 lamb chops
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the Lamb Chops: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the lamb chops, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil.
- Bake the Lamb Chops: Bake the lamb chops in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer them more well-done. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Rest the Lamb Chops: Remove the lamb chops from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is tender and flavorful.
- Serve: Serve the lamb chops with lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness. They pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
How to Prepare
The key to delicious oven baked lamb chops is in the seasoning and cooking time. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme infuse the meat with aromatic flavors, while garlic and paprika add a delightful kick. Rubbing the seasoning mixture thoroughly ensures every bite is flavorful. Baking at a high temperature helps to sear the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Letting the lamb chops rest before serving is crucial for the best texture and taste.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: About 25 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
FAQs
- Can I marinate the lamb chops ahead of time? Yes, marinating the lamb chops for a few hours or even overnight will enhance the flavors. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
- What side dishes go well with lamb chops? Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, couscous, or a fresh green salad are excellent side dishes to complement lamb chops.
- Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones? Yes, you can use dried herbs. Just use half the amount called for in the recipe since dried herbs are more concentrated.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store any leftover lamb chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
- Can I grill the lamb chops instead of baking them? Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the lamb chops for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare.