- Prepare the Lamb Chops:
- Remove the lamb chops from the refrigerator about 20-30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
- Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels and season generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Lamb Chops:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
- Add the lamb chops to the skillet, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Use tongs to turn the chops, searing the edges for 1-2 minutes as well.
- Add Garlic and Herbs:
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet.
- As the butter melts, spoon it continuously over the lamb chops for 1-2 minutes, basting them with the aromatic butter. This process infuses the meat with the flavors of garlic and herbs.
- Rest the Lamb Chops:
- Transfer the lamb chops to a plate. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Serve:
- Drizzle the lamb chops with the garlic butter from the skillet. Sprinkle with lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright finish.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Perfection:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the lamb chops in batches if necessary prevents the temperature from dropping too much, ensuring a good sear.
- Internal Temperature for Doneness: For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Adjust the cooking time slightly for more or less doneness according to your preference.
- Basting with Butter: Basting not only adds flavor but also helps to cook the lamb chops evenly, creating a delicious crust.
Why This Recipe Works:
The high heat searing locks in the juices of the lamb chops, while the garlic butter basting method introduces additional layers of flavor. The acidity from the lemon zest and juice cuts through the richness of the lamb and butter, balancing the dish beautifully.
Enjoy your Garlic Butter Lamb Chops, a dish that combines simplicity with elegance, promising a dining experience that’s both satisfying and sophisticated.