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Garlic Butter Lamb Chops

Garlic Butter Lamb Chops are pan-seared until golden and finished in a rich garlic butter sauce with fresh thyme. This easy skillet recipe is ready in just 20 minutes and delivers tender, juicy lamb chops every time. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bone-in lamb chops
  • Coarse salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 6 garlic cloves minced

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Season the Lamb
  • Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  • Allow the chops to sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and develop a beautiful crust.
  • Step 2: Heat the Skillet
  • Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Once hot, carefully place the seasoned Garlic Butter Lamb Chops into the skillet without overcrowding the pan.
  • Add:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Fresh thyme sprigs
  • Step 3: Sear the Lamb
  • Cook the lamb chops for approximately 3–4 minutes per side.
  • The outside should become beautifully golden while the inside remains juicy.
  • For medium-rare, cook until the internal temperature reaches approximately 135°F (57°C).
  • For medium, cook until 145°F (63°C).
  • Always use a digital meat thermometer for the most accurate results.
  • Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
  • Reduce the heat slightly.
  • Add:
  • Remaining tablespoon of butter
  • Minced garlic
  • Chopped thyme
  • As the butter melts, gently stir until the garlic becomes fragrant, about one minute.
  • Avoid browning the garlic, as it can become bitter.
  • Step 5: Baste the Lamb
  • Using a spoon, continuously drizzle the melted garlic butter sauce over each lamb chop.
  • Flip the chops and repeat the basting process for another 1–2 minutes.
  • This step creates an incredibly rich coating while keeping the meat moist and tender.
  • Step 6: Rest and Serve
  • Transfer the lamb chops to a serving platter.
  • Allow them to rest for 5 minutes before serving to help retain their juices.
  • Spoon the remaining garlic butter sauce over the top and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
  • Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • Bone-in lamb chops tend to be more flavorful and juicy than boneless cuts.
  • If using thicker chops, increase the cooking time by 1–2 minutes per side while monitoring the internal temperature.
  • Add mushrooms, asparagus, or green beans to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for an easy one-pan meal.
  • Leftover garlic butter sauce is delicious spooned over mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed rice.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley or additional fresh thyme before serving for a fresh finish.