Delicious Air Fryer Lamb Chops: Quick & Tender (Print Version)

Delicious Air Fryer Lamb Chops are quick, tender, and packed with flavor. My easy recipe brings restaurant-quality lamb to your table in minutes!

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 12 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 2 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
Dietary: Gluten-Free, High Protein

# Ingredients:

→ Main Event

01 - Lamb Loin Chops (4-6, about 1-inch thick)
02 - Olive Oil (1 tbsp)

→ Herb & Spice Magic

03 - Garlic Powder (1 tsp)
04 - Onion Powder (1/2 tsp)
05 - Dried Oregano (1/2 tsp)
06 - Dried Rosemary (1/2 tsp, crushed)
07 - Smoked Paprika (1/2 tsp)

→ Fresh Finishers

08 - Fresh Lemon (1/2, for serving)
09 - Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped, for garnish)
10 - Flaky Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)

→ Heat Seekers (Optional)

11 - Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 tsp, optional)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, pat those lamb chops dry, really dry, with paper towels. This is crucial for getting that beautiful crispy exterior, trust me on this! Any excess moisture means steaming, not searing, and we want searing! I usually lay them out on a plate while I gather my spices. You’ll notice how quickly they start to look more ready for action once they're properly dried. It feels a bit like a pre-game ritual, honestly.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried rosemary (crushed, remember?), and smoked paprika. Now, generously brush this mixture all over the lamb chops, making sure to coat both sides and the edges. Don't be shy with the seasoning! This is where the magic happens, infusing every bite with incredible flavor. I once rushed this part and the chops tasted... fine. But "fine" isn't what we're going for, right? We want "wow!"
03 - Get your air fryer ready! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is super important, just like preheating an oven. It ensures the chops start cooking immediately upon contact, leading to that lovely crust we're chasing. I used to skip this, thinking it wouldn't matter, but it totally does! You'll feel the warm rush of air, a sign that deliciousness is on its way.
04 - Carefully place the seasoned lamb chops in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Don't overcrowd the basket; you want air to circulate around each chop for even cooking. Depending on your air fryer and chop thickness, cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through. For medium-rare, aim for 6-7 minutes. I like mine a bit more medium, so I usually go for 8. You'll hear that satisfying sizzle!
05 - Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, it should be 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, 135-140°F (57-60°C). Remember, they'll continue to cook slightly after you take them out. This is a step I never skip after overcooking lamb once – a sad, dry memory I don't want to repeat! Trust the thermometer, not just your eyes.
06 - Once cooked to your liking, remove the lamb chops from the air fryer and let them rest on a cutting board or plate for 5 minutes. This resting period is non-negotiable! It allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is incredibly tender and juicy. While they rest, squeeze that fresh lemon over them and sprinkle with flaky sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped parsley. Oh, the aroma! It's pure perfection.

# Notes:

01 - Always pat your lamb chops super dry; it’s the secret to that crispy crust I learned the hard way.
02 - Reheating gently in the air fryer at a lower temp keeps them tender – avoid the microwave!
03 - I once tried dried mint instead of oregano for a brighter flavor, and it was an interesting twist.
04 - Serving with creamy tzatziki and a robust red wine makes this dish feel extra special.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Air fryer
02 - Small bowl
03 - Tongs
04 - Meat thermometer
05 - Cutting board

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 350-450
Total Fat: 25-35g
Total Carbohydrate: 3-5g
Protein: 30-40g

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