These honey garlic glazed lamb chops are a tasty treat! They are sweet, sticky, and super flavorful, making them perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in.
Cooking these is a breeze! I love how the sweet glaze caramelizes beautifully, and they pair perfectly with some mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lamb Chops: Choose thick lamb chops, about 1 inch. If lamb isn’t available, pork chops or chicken thighs are great alternatives that still work well with the glaze.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and stickiness. For a different flavor, you can use maple syrup or agave syrup, which both work beautifully in this recipe.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is perfect for this dish. If you don’t have it, garlic powder can work in a pinch—just use about 1/2 teaspoon for each clove you would normally use.
Soy Sauce: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, use reduced-sodium soy sauce. Tamari is a great gluten-free substitute as well.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Lamb Chops?
Achieving perfectly cooked lamb chops can be easy with the right steps. Here are some tips:
- Pat the chops dry before seasoning; this helps with browning.
- Use medium-high heat for searing. This locks in the juices.
- Cook to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, and let them rest after cooking. This step keeps them juicy and tender.
- Watch the glaze closely in the final steps—it can thicken quickly!
Easy Honey Garlic Glazed Lamb Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lamb Chops:
- 8 lamb chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Honey Garlic Glaze:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have delicious honey garlic glazed lamb chops ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Lamb Chops:
Start by patting the lamb chops dry with paper towels. This step helps them brown nicely. Next, season both sides generously with salt and black pepper for added flavor.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and dried thyme (if you’re using it). This will be your tasty glaze, so set it aside for now.
3. Sear the Lamb Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the lamb chops to the pan. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked to your liking (for medium-rare, aim for about 3 minutes per side).
4. Add the Glaze:
After the lamb chops are seared, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the honey garlic glaze over the chops in the skillet. Make sure to coat them well!
5. Cook and Thicken the Sauce:
Continue to cook the chops, turning them often and spooning the glaze over them for another 2-3 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and become a sticky, flavorful coating around the lamb.
6. Allow to Rest and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the lamb chops from the skillet and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping them tender and juicy. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Enjoy these sweet, garlicky, perfectly glazed lamb chops!
FAQ for Easy Honey Garlic Glazed Lamb Chops
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While lamb chops are delicious, you can also use pork chops or chicken thighs as substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat.
How Do I Store Leftover Lamb Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture.
Can I Make the Honey Garlic Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure everything is well combined.
What Should I Serve with These Lamb Chops?
These lamb chops pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of rice or couscous to soak up the delicious glaze!
