I was immediately drawn to how Honey Garlic Glazed Lamb Chops elevate simple ingredients into something truly indulgent. The interplay of sweet honey, umami-savory soy, sharp garlic, and fragrant rosemary creates a glaze that transforms lamb chops into a glossy, flavor-packed centerpiece for any meal.
Why I’ll Love This Recipe
I savour how effortlessly this recipe balances elegance and ease. From marinating to searing, every step is straightforward, yet the result is impressive—perfect for turning an ordinary dinner into something special. I can’t resist the sticky, caramelized finish that glistens atop tender, juicy lamb.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Lamb Chops:
-
8 lamb chops (about 1 inch thick)
-
Salt, to taste
-
3 tablespoons olive oil
For the Honey Garlic Glaze:
-
4 garlic cloves, minced
-
1/4 cup honey
-
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
-
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
-
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
-
1/2 teaspoon paprika
-
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
Directions
-
I whisk together honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic, black pepper, paprika, and rosemary to make the marinade. I reserve half for glazing later.
-
I season the lamb chops with salt, coat them in the remaining marinade, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
-
I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chops for 2–3 minutes per side to develop a golden crust.
-
I reduce heat to medium, brush on the reserved glaze, and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, turning to caramelize the glaze. I use a meat thermometer to check doneness: 135 °F (57 °C) for medium‑rare, 145 °F (63 °C) for medium.
-
I rest the chops for 5 minutes so the juices redistribute, then serve right away with any remaining glaze drizzled over top.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields 4 servings. The total time ranges from 55 to 135 minutes—this includes 30 to 120 minutes for marinating and about 15 minutes for cooking.
Variations
I love customizing this recipe with these ideas:
-
Spicy Twist: I add chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
-
Herbaceous Flavor: I swap rosemary for thyme or mint.
-
Citrus Infusion: I stir in a tablespoon of orange or lemon juice.
-
Oven‑Baked Option: I bake at 400 °F (200 °C) for 10–12 minutes, then broil 2–3 minutes for glaze caramelization.
Storage/Reheating
-
Refrigeration: I store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 3 days.
-
Freezing: I wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months, thawing in the fridge before reheating.
-
Reheating: I gently reheat in a skillet on low heat or in a 300 °F (150 °C) oven, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture. I avoid the microwave—it can make lamb rubbery.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of lamb for this recipe?
I can! Thicker cuts like lamb loin or shoulder chops work too, but they may need longer cooking times.
2. What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
I substitute it with apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even lemon juice—each adds its own tang to the glaze.
3. How long should I marinate the lamb chops?
I marinate at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours for better flavor. I don’t exceed that—acidic ingredients could start to break down the meat.
4. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
I absolutely can. I prepare it up to 3 days in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat gently before using.
5. How do I know when the lamb is cooked to my liking?
I check with a meat thermometer: 135 °F (57 °C) for medium‑rare, 145 °F (63 °C) for medium. The lamb continues cooking a bit as it rests.
Conclusion
Honey Garlic Glazed Lamb Chops strike me as a dish where elegance meets ease—effortlessly transforming beautiful ingredients into an unforgettable meal. Whether I’m cooking for a celebration or a cozy night in, the caramelized glaze and tender meat deliver flavor and presentation that never disappoints. Once I make these, they become a go-to favorite.
Print
Honey Garlic Glazed Lamb Chops – Sweet & Savory Perfection
- Prep Time: 30-120 minutes (marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45-135 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Honey Garlic Glazed Lamb Chops combine sweet honey, savory soy, aromatic rosemary, and garlic to create a glossy, flavor-packed glaze that turns juicy lamb chops into an elegant yet easy dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 lamb chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
Instructions
- Whisk together honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic, black pepper, paprika, and rosemary to make the marinade. Reserve half for glazing later.
- Season the lamb chops with salt, coat them in the remaining marinade, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chops for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
- Reduce heat to medium, brush on the reserved glaze, and cook for another 3–4 minutes, turning to caramelize. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium.
- Rest the chops for 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle with remaining glaze if desired.
Notes
- Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Swap rosemary with thyme or mint for a fresh herb twist.
- Stir in citrus juice like lemon or orange for brightness.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, then broil 2–3 minutes to caramelize glaze.
- Store leftovers up to 3 days refrigerated or freeze for 3 months.
- Reheat gently in a skillet or 300°F oven with a splash of water or broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 lamb chops
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg