Name: Greek Lamb Chops Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: ¼ cup olive oil; ¼ cup lemon juice; 2 tsp dried Greek oregano; 4 garlic cloves; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper; 8 lamb chops; 1 tbsp olive oil

Experience the authentic taste of the Mediterranean with these succulent Greek lamb chops. Infused with traditional flavors like lemon, garlic, and Greek oregano, this simple recipe transforms everyday lamb chops into a gourmet delicacy. Best served with a side of Greek salad or potatoes.

Photos of Greek Lamb Chops Recipe

While most of the ingredients are common pantry staples, Greek oregano might be the one you need to look out for. Greek oregano, also known as rigani, has a slightly more intense flavor compared to regular oregano. If you can't find it, regular oregano will do, but the taste might be slightly different. Garlic cloves and fresh lemon juice are essentials to this recipe, providing a zest that accentuates the flavor of the lamb.

Ingredients for Authentic Greek Lamb Chops

Olive oil: Acts as a medium for infusing flavors and also helps in grilling the lamb chops to perfection.

Lemon juice: Gives a tangy flavor offsetting the richness of the lamb.

Greek oregano: Adds the classic Greek touch to the dish. Regular oregano can be used if Greek oregano is unavailable.

Garlic cloves: Adds a punch of flavor that complements the lamb's strong character.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the taste profile.

Lamb chops: The star of the dish. Chose bone-in chops for the best flavor.

One reader, Gerda Hunt says:

This Greek lamb chops recipe is a game-changer! The marinade is bursting with flavor, and the chops come out tender and juicy every time. It's a family favorite, and I love how easy it is to make. I highly recommend trying it out for a delicious and satisfying meal!

Gerda Hunt

Key Techniques for Making Greek Lamb Chops

How to marinate the lamb chops: Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small jug or bowl. Pour the marinade over the lamb chops, rubbing it into the meat. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator, turning the chops from time to time.

How to cook the lamb chops: Heat the oil in a pan over high heat until just starting to smoke. Fry or grill the lamb in 2 batches for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, depending on thickness and until cooked to desired doneness. Let the lamb chops rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to make leftover marinade sauce (optional): Reduce the heat of the pan used to grill down to medium-low, leaving any leftover drippings in the pan. Pour in the leftover marinade along with 1 tablespoon of butter and ¼ cup of beef broth. Bring to a simmer and allow to cook for at least 5 minutes. Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Sprinkle the chops with extra dried oregano and drizzle with the marinade sauce before serving.

How To Make Greek Lamb Chops

Enjoy a plate of these mouthwatering lamb chops for dinner tonight! It’s seasoned with tasteful herbs, and takes only a few hours to make.

Preparation: 35 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Marinate and Set Time: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¼cupolive oil
¼cuplemon juice,or juice of 1 lemon
2tspdried Greek oregano,or ½ cup chopped fresh oregano
4garlic cloves,minced
1tspsalt
½tspfreshly ground black pepper
8lamb chops
1tbspolive oil,for cooking

Instructions

Using paper towels, pat the chops dry and discard any shards or bone fragments.
Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, black pepper, and olive in a small jug or bowl.
Arrange the lamb chops in a large baking dish or on a large plate, then pour the marinade all over the lamb, rubbing it into the meat.
Cover with plastic wrap, then marinate for 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator, turning the chops from time to time.
Let the lamb chops sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Heat the oil in a pan over high heat until just starting to smoke.
Fry or grill the lamb in 2 batches for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, depending on thickness and until cooked to desired doneness.
Let rest for 5 minutes.

Leftover Marinade Sauce (Optional):

Reduce heat of the pan used to grill down to medium-low, leaving any leftover drippings in the pan.
Pour in the leftover marinade along with 1 tablespoon of butter and ¼ cup of beef broth.
Bring to a simmer, then allow to cook for at least 5 minutes.
Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
Sprinkle the chops with a extra dried oregano and a drizzle of the marinade sauce.
Serve, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Cook at 3 minutes per side medium chops, and 4 minutes for medium-well.

Nutrition

Calories: 748.05kcal
Fat: 67.55g
Saturated Fat: 24.69g
Monounsaturated Fat: 33.11g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.75g
Carbohydrates: 2.57g
Fiber: 0.39g
Sugar: 0.44g
Protein: 31.33g
Cholesterol: 140.60mg
Sodium: 525.36mg
Calcium: 44.53mg
Potassium: 444.71mg
Iron: 3.43mg
Vitamin A: 0.50µg
Vitamin C: 6.85mg

Expert Technique Tip for Perfecting Greek Lamb Chops

When marinating the lamb chops, ensure to rub the marinade thoroughly into the meat. This will help the flavors to penetrate deeper, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Additionally, allowing the chops to sit at room temperature before cooking will ensure even cooking and a juicier result. If you're marinating overnight, remember to turn the chops occasionally to ensure all sides are equally marinated.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Greek Lamb Chops

Marinate efficiently: To save time, consider marinating the lamb chops in a resealable plastic bag. This method allows for even distribution of the marinade and easy cleanup.

Prep in advance: Prepare the marinade and marinate the lamb chops the night before. This allows the flavors to develop and saves time on the day of cooking.

Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the lamb chops are cooked to the desired doneness without overcooking, use a meat thermometer to accurately gauge the internal temperature.

Multi-task: While the lamb chops are marinating, use that time to prepare side dishes or set the table to make the overall cooking process more efficient.

Preheat the grill or pan: Ensure the grill or pan is preheated before cooking the lamb chops to save time and achieve a perfect sear.

Substitute Ingredients For Greek Lamb Chops Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar flavor profile to olive oil and a high smoke point, making it a great substitute for cooking the lamb chops.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide the acidity and tanginess that lemon juice adds to the marinade, while also adding a subtle depth of flavor.
dried greek oregano - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram has a similar aromatic and slightly sweet flavor to Greek oregano, making it a suitable substitute for seasoning the lamb chops.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor similar to garlic, adding depth to the marinade without overpowering the other flavors.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and saltiness to regular salt, making it a suitable substitute for seasoning the lamb chops.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a milder, slightly earthy flavor similar to black pepper, while also maintaining the visual appeal of the dish without the dark specks.

Plating Ideas for Delicious Greek Lamb Chops

Elevate the lamb chops: Carefully arrange the lamb chops on the plate, ensuring they are positioned neatly and elegantly.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped oregano and parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
Create a drizzle design: Use the leftover marinade sauce to create an artistic drizzle around the lamb chops, adding visual appeal to the dish.
Incorporate a side dish: Serve the lamb chops alongside a vibrant Greek salad or a flavorful couscous to complement the main dish.
Use high-quality serving ware: Present the dish on a sophisticated, minimalist plate to showcase the beauty of the lamb chops.
Add a touch of elegance: Consider placing a small edible flower or a delicate lemon twist as a finishing touch to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Preparing Greek Lamb Chops

Chef's knife: A versatile tool used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients with precision.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Grill or grill pan: Used for grilling the lamb chops to perfection, adding a delicious charred flavor.
Baking dish: Used for marinating the lamb chops and can also be used for baking or roasting.
Pan: Essential for frying or grilling the lamb chops and for making the marinade sauce.
Tongs: Used for flipping the lamb chops while grilling or frying, ensuring even cooking.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the olive oil, lemon juice, and other ingredients.
Small jug or bowl: Used for mixing the marinade ingredients together before pouring over the lamb chops.
Paper towels: Used for patting the lamb chops dry before marinating.
Plastic wrap: Used for covering the marinated lamb chops while they marinate in the refrigerator.

Storing and Freezing Greek Lamb Chops: A Guide

Let the lamb chops cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, wrap each lamb chop tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the lamb chops overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed lamb chops in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the lamb chops in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
Note: Freezing and reheating may slightly affect the texture and flavor of the lamb chops, but they will still be delicious and safe to eat.

How To Reheat Leftover Greek Lamb Chops

To reheat leftover greek lamb chops, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chops in a baking dish and cover them with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the meat from drying out.
Another option is to reheat the lamb chops in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan and heat it over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chops and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can cause the meat to become tough.
If you have a microwave, you can also use it to reheat the greek lamb chops. Place the chops on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through. Keep in mind that microwaving can sometimes result in uneven heating and may slightly affect the texture of the meat.
For a flavorful twist, you can brush the leftover lamb chops with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano before reheating them. This will help to refresh the flavors and keep the meat moist.
If you have any leftover marinade sauce, you can also reheat it separately in a small saucepan on the stovetop. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until it's heated through. Drizzle the warm sauce over the reheated lamb chops for an extra burst of flavor.

Interesting Trivia About Greek Lamb Chops

Greek lamb chops are a popular dish in Greek cuisine and are often served during festive occasions and celebrations. They are traditionally marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and Greek oregano, which gives them their distinct and delicious flavor. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in juicy and flavorful lamb chops. This dish is a favorite among meat lovers and is a great way to experience the rich and aromatic flavors of Greek cuisine.

Is Making Greek Lamb Chops at Home Cost-Effective?

This Greek lamb chops recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The key ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic are commonly found in most kitchens. However, the use of lamb chops may increase the overall cost. The rich flavors and the potential to use leftover marinade for a sauce add value. On a scale of 1-10, this recipe rates an 8 for its taste and simplicity. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $30-$40, factoring in the cost of lamb chops and other ingredients.

Are Greek Lamb Chops Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Greek lamb chops recipe is relatively healthy, but there are a few aspects that could be improved:

The recipe uses olive oil, which is a healthy fat source rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. However, the total amount of oil used (5 tablespoons) is quite high, adding significant calories.
Lamb is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, but it is also high in saturated fat. Choosing leaner cuts of lamb or trimming excess fat can help reduce the saturated fat content.
The marinade includes lemon juice and garlic, both of which offer health benefits such as vitamin C and potential anti-inflammatory properties.
The recipe does not include any vegetables or side dishes, which are important for a balanced meal.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the marinade to lower the overall calorie content. Two to three tablespoons should suffice.
Opt for leaner cuts of lamb, such as loin chops or leg steaks, and trim any visible fat before marinating.
Increase the amount of lemon juice and garlic in the marinade for added flavor and potential health benefits.
Serve the lamb chops with a variety of colorful vegetables, such as roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or a Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives.
Instead of frying the lamb chops, consider grilling or broiling them to reduce the amount of added fat.
Use low-sodium beef broth in the leftover marinade sauce to control sodium intake.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Greek Lamb Chops Recipe

The Greek lamb chops recipe is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors. The marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and Greek oregano infuses the lamb with a zesty and aromatic essence. The cooking process ensures a succulent and tender texture, while the optional marinade sauce adds an extra layer of richness. This dish is a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Enhance Your Greek Lamb Chops Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the flavorful greek lamb chops.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, a light and refreshing side to accompany the savory lamb chops.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey, a delightful contrast to the bold flavors of the greek lamb chops.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Greek Lamb Chops

Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use a mixture of ground lamb, rice, tomatoes, and spices to stuff bell peppers, then bake until tender and delicious.

Citrus Glazed Salmon: Create a tangy and sweet glaze using citrus juices and honey to brush over salmon fillets before baking or grilling to perfection.

Summer Berry Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: Toss together a refreshing salad with mixed berries, greens, and a homemade balsamic vinaigrette for a light and flavorful dish.

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: Simmer butternut squash with onions, garlic, and broth, then blend until smooth and creamy for a comforting and satisfying soup.

Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream: Combine sliced apples with a spiced oat topping, then bake until golden and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Greek Lamb Chops

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top of crispy, toasted baguette slices.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the luscious combination of smooth, creamy cheesecake and sweet, juicy strawberries. This classic dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy any sweet tooth.

Why trust this Greek Lamb Chops Recipe:

This Greek lamb chops recipe is a trusted classic, featuring authentic Mediterranean flavors. The marinade, made with olive oil, lemon juice, and aromatic Greek oregano, infuses the lamb chops with rich, savory taste. The method ensures tender, juicy results, perfect for any occasion. With a balance of traditional ingredients and expert techniques, this recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience, earning the trust of all lamb enthusiasts.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Greek Lamb Chops Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the lamb chops?

It's best to marinate the lamb chops for at least 30 minutes, but for even better flavor, you can marinate them overnight in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe is specifically for lamb chops, you can also use this marinade for other cuts of lamb or even other meats like chicken or pork.

Can I grill the lamb chops instead of frying them?

Yes, you can definitely grill the lamb chops instead of frying them. Just preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the chops for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.

What can I serve with the Greek lamb chops?

These Greek lamb chops pair well with a variety of sides such as Greek salad, roasted vegetables, couscous, or rice pilaf. You can also serve them with some tzatziki sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Can I make the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using it to marinate the lamb chops.