Garlic Rosemary Grilled Lamb Chops for Christmas Dinner Recipe
This Garlic Rosemary Grilled Lamb Chops recipe is perfect for a festive Christmas dinner. Featuring tender lamb chops marinated in a fragrant mixture of garlic, fresh rosemary, olive oil, and seasoned with kosher salt and black pepper. Grilled to perfection, this dish offers a savory combination of herbaceous flavors and smoky char, making it a delightful main course for holiday celebrations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Meat
- 1 rack of lamb (8 lamb chops)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, finely chopped fresh rosemary, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a fragrant and flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Lamb Chops: Place the rack of lamb or individual lamb chops in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the lamb, ensuring each chop is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to infuse the meat.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (204°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Lamb Chops: Remove the lamb chops from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chops on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C). Adjust the cooking time slightly if you prefer a different level of doneness.
- Rest the Meat: Once cooked, transfer the lamb chops to a cutting board and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender bite.
- Serve: Serve the garlic rosemary grilled lamb chops hot, garnished with additional fresh rosemary if desired. Pair with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete Christmas dinner.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the lamb for at least 1 hour but no more than 4 hours to prevent the garlic from becoming too overpowering.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness and avoid overcooking.
- Letting the lamb rest after grilling helps maintain its juiciness and tenderness.
- The rack of lamb can be butterflied into individual chops before marinating if preferred.
- If you don’t have a grill, lamb chops can also be cooked using a grill pan or broiler with similar results.
Keywords: garlic rosemary lamb chops, grilled lamb chops, Christmas dinner lamb, holiday lamb recipe, Mediterranean grilled lamb