Air Fryer Lamb Chops: Quick Herb-Crusted Delight (Print Version)
Air Fryer Lamb Chops: Get perfectly tender, herb-crusted lamb in minutes. Your easy, delicious weeknight meal or special occasion treat.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 12 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 2 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Dietary: Gluten-Free
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
Lamb Loin Chops (or Rib Chops)
→ Flavor Boosters
02 -
Olive Oil
03 -
Fresh Rosemary
04 -
Fresh Thyme
→ Essential Seasonings
05 -
Garlic Powder
06 -
Smoked Paprika
07 -
Salt
08 -
Freshly Ground Black Pepper
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, get those lamb chops out of the fridge about 15-20 minutes before you plan to cook them. This helps them cook more evenly; a cold chop will seize up and be tougher. Pat them really, really dry with paper towels. Honestly, this is a game-changer for getting a good sear. Any moisture means steaming, not searing, and we want that beautiful crust on our lamb chops!
02 -
Now for the fun part! Drizzle a little olive oil over the chops, then rub it all over. Next, sprinkle on your finely chopped rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat both sides and even the edges. I sometimes press the herbs in a bit to make sure they really adhere. This is where the magic starts, and the smell of those herbs already gets my stomach rumbling!
03 -
This step is crucial, don't skip it like I once did! Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for at least 5 minutes. A hot air fryer basket means an instant sear when the lamb chops hit it, locking in those juices. You'll hear the fan whirring, and you might even smell a hint of the previous night's dinner, which is just part of the air fryer charm!
04 -
Carefully place the seasoned lamb chops in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Don't overcrowd them, or they won't crisp up properly. You might need to cook them in batches, depending on your air fryer size. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through. I use tongs for this, watching for that lovely golden-brown crust to form.
05 -
This is where a meat thermometer becomes your best friend. For medium-rare lamb chops, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, go for 135-140°F (57-60°C). Remember, they'll continue to cook a bit after you take them out, so pull them a few degrees early. I always check the thickest part of the chop; it's a small step that makes a huge difference!
06 -
Once cooked to your liking, remove the lamb chops from the basket and place them on a cutting board or plate. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period is so important – it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. Don't skip it, even if you're starving! Then, serve them up and enjoy your delicious creation!
# Notes:
01 -
Always pat your lamb chops super dry before seasoning for a great crust.
02 -
Reheating in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes is best for leftovers.
03 -
If you're out of fresh herbs, dried Italian seasoning works, but use less.
04 -
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished chops brightens everything up.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Air fryer
02 -
meat thermometer
03 -
tongs
04 -
mixing bowl
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 350-450
Total Fat: 25-35g
Total Carbohydrate: 2-5g
Protein: 30-40g