Honey Glazed Lamb Chops | Perfectly Sear and Glaze

Learn how to make perfectly seared and honey-glazed lamb chops. This quick and delicious recipe combines lamb with a sweet and tangy glaze, ready in just 30 minutes!

What are lamb chops?

Lamb chops are cuts of lamb which are made by cutting at an angle perpendicular to the spine, generating a single serving of meat which is traditionally cooked and served with the bone in. Parts of the ribs and vertebrae are usually present in lamb chops, depending on the region of the lamb the chops are cut from.

Is lamb healthy to eat?

Not only is it a rich source of high-quality protein, but it is also an outstanding source of many vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Because of this, regular consumption of lamb may promote muscle growth, maintenance, and performance. In addition, it helps prevent anemia.

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Honey Glazed Lamb Chops Recipe

Serving: 4 people
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

1.5 lbs rack of lamb
4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1 tablespoon lemon zest
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves

Instructions

Prepare the Lamb Chops:
- Cut the rack of lamb into individual lamb chops.
- Season the chops with fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Let the lamb chops come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
Make the Glaze:
- In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, and lemon zest.
- Whisk until well incorporated and emulsified.
Cook the Lamb Chops:
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Sear the lamb chops for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
- Pour most of the prepared glaze into the skillet over the lamb chops. Allow it to caramelize quickly into a dark and beautiful glaze.
- Remove the chops from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes.
Serve:
- Drizzle some of the reserved glaze over the lamb chops.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!

Lamb Chop Cooking Temperature Guide:

Rare: Remove at 125°F for an ideal temperature of 130°F.
Medium Rare: Remove at 130°F for an ideal temperature of 135°F.
Medium: Remove at 140°F for an ideal temperature of 145°F.
Medium-Well: Remove at 155°F for an ideal temperature of 160°F.
Well Done: Remove at 160°F for an ideal temperature of 165°F.

Note: The USDA recommends a safe cooking temperature of 145°F. Lamb is best enjoyed at medium.

Frenched: Part of the meat/fat is cut away on the bone-side to expose the bones.

FAQs for Honey Glazed Lamb Chops

1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe? Yes, you can use pork chops or chicken thighs as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

2. How long should I marinate the lamb chops? Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

3. What’s the best way to ensure the lamb chops are tender? Let the lamb chops come to room temperature before cooking and don’t overcook them.

4. Can I grill the lamb chops instead of using a skillet? Yes, grilling is a great option. Grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side.

5. What sides go well with honey-glazed lamb chops? Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad complement the flavors well.

6. How do I know when the lamb chops are done? Use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 135°F (57°C).

7. Can I make the glaze ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the glaze and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

8. What type of skillet is best for this recipe? A cast-iron skillet is ideal as it retains and distributes heat evenly, helping to sear the lamb perfectly.

9. Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh? Yes, you can substitute dried rosemary, but use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

10. How should I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

11. How do I reheat the lamb chops without drying them out? Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in an oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.

12. Can I freeze the cooked lamb chops? Yes, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

13. What other herbs can I use in place of rosemary? Thyme or mint can be used as alternatives, offering different but complementary flavors.

14. Is there a way to reduce the sweetness of the glaze? You can reduce the amount of honey or balance the sweetness by adding more lemon juice or a splash of vinegar.

15. How do I prevent the glaze from burning? Keep the heat at medium-high and add the glaze towards the end of cooking to avoid burning.

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