Garlic Parmesan Fried Lamb Chops Recipe
Lamb chops are often considered a luxurious dish, bringing together tender meat and rich flavors. When seasoned with a crispy, savory garlic Parmesan coating, they become a true showstopper! The garlic and Parmesan lend a depth of flavor, while the breadcrumbs give the lamb an irresistible crunch. Whether you’re making this dish for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal, it’s sure to impress your family and guests.
Here’s a full breakdown of this Garlic Parmesan Fried Lamb Chops recipe.
Ingredients
For the Lamb Chops:
- 8–10 lamb chops (bone-in)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
For the Garlic Parmesan Coating:
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 large eggs (for dipping)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Extra grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Lamb Chops
- Season the Lamb Chops: Begin by rinsing and patting the lamb chops dry with a paper towel. This ensures that the coating will stick better. Season the lamb chops with salt and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Coating: In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Set up the Dipping Stations: In another shallow dish, place the flour. In a separate bowl, whisk the two eggs until lightly beaten.
Step 3: Dredging the Lamb Chops
- Coat the Lamb Chops: Take each lamb chop and dredge it lightly in the flour, tapping off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off before coating it in the garlic Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs gently into the chop to ensure it sticks well.
Step 4: Frying the Lamb Chops
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter to the pan, allowing it to melt and become hot (but not smoking).
- Fry the Chops: Add the breaded lamb chops to the skillet in batches (do not overcrowd the pan). Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the lamb should reach around 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, or cook longer for your desired level of doneness.
- Rest the Lamb: After frying, remove the lamb chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices inside the meat.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan on top of the lamb chops for a beautiful finish.
- Serve: Serve the garlic Parmesan fried lamb chops with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also add a side of mint chutney or a creamy garlic sauce for extra flavor.
Cooking Methods & Tips
- Pan-Frying: Pan-frying is key to achieving a crispy, golden coating while keeping the lamb tender on the inside. Make sure to use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan for even heat distribution.
- Oven Option: If you prefer not to fry, you can bake the coated lamb chops. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated lamb chops on a greased baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chops are golden and cooked to your liking.
- Air Fryer Option: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the lamb chops in the air fryer basket and cook for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
The History of Lamb Chops
Lamb has been a significant part of global cuisine for centuries. While different cultures have developed their unique ways of cooking lamb, lamb chops are especially popular in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and European cuisines. The combination of lamb and garlic dates back to ancient times, where both ingredients were used for medicinal, flavorful, and preservative purposes.
In Western cuisine, lamb chops became a staple in French and British cooking, often served with rich sauces and sides. The popularity of garlic and Parmesan as a seasoning is a more recent phenomenon, rising in Italian-American cooking and blending well with lamb’s distinctive flavor. Combining the two creates a harmonious balance of richness and savory notes, perfect for fried preparations.
Formation of Flavors
- Lamb: The lamb itself is slightly gamey, which contrasts beautifully with the bold and savory flavors of the garlic and Parmesan.
- Garlic: Garlic adds a punch of aromatic richness, deepening the overall flavor of the dish.
- Parmesan: Parmesan cheese lends a nutty, salty, and slightly tangy flavor that complements the lamb and garlic perfectly.
- Breadcrumbs: The breadcrumbs give the lamb chops their crispy, crunchy texture, making every bite an enjoyable contrast between the juicy meat and the crisp coating.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Fried Lamb Chops are a delicious and elegant dish that elevates the simple lamb chop into a flavorful masterpiece. The combination of crispy breadcrumbs, rich Parmesan, and aromatic garlic creates an unforgettable eating experience. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just looking to impress at dinner, these lamb chops are a guaranteed hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Flavorful: The crispy coating and the umami-packed flavors make each bite irresistible.
- Versatile: Serve it with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or even a refreshing salad.
- Impressive: This dish looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
- A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking for the family, lamb chops are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
If you make this dish, be prepared for compliments—it’s a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!