Get ready to drool over these mouthwatering Garlic Herb Lamb Shoulder Chops! With this easy recipe, you’ll pan-sear the lamb chops first in a skillet, then cook them to perfection in the oven! This meal is just what you’re looking for if you want an impressive dish that is incredibly flavorful and simple to make! (This recipe is dairy-free and naturally gluten-free).

Pair these lamb shoulder chops with my Four Cheese Mac and Cheese, Instant Pot Parsnip Mash, Creamy Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes, or Maple Roasted Brussel Sprouts for a full-on meal!

Good Food Baddie Lamb Shoulder Chops Recipe

Garlic Herb Lamb Shoulder Chops are great for any occasion! I personally like to make these lamb chops when I am hosting a dinner. It is a super impressive meal, but takes very minimal effort and leaves everyone beyond satisfied! The key to nailing this recipe is all in the marinade and properly cooking the lamb.

lamb shoulder chops served with brussels sprouts and parsnip mash

What Are Lamb Shoulder Chops?

Lamb Shoulder Chops are cut from the top part of the leg of the lamb. This cut is super flavorful and tender when cooked properly. This recipe works perfectly for lamb shoulder chops or lamb loin chops.

What do lamb shoulder chops taste like?

The shoulder of the lamb is an overworked area of the lamb. Therefore, it takes time to tenderize it with a proper marinade and it needs to be cooked properly to yield the best flavor. Done right, lamb shoulder has a rich, gamey flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh herbs like fresh mint, rosemary, or oregano.

Lamb Shoulder Chops marinade ingredients

What You Need To Make This Garlic Herb Lamb Chops Recipe

Lamb Shoulder Chops: You’ll need 4 lamb chops, about 8 oz and 1 inch thick each. I use bone-in lamb shoulder chops
Fresh Herbs: Parsley, Rosemary, and Thyme are the winning combination for this savory marinade.
Fresh Garlic: Don’t skimp on the garlic! I recommend 6 cloves minimum for the best flavor!
Shallot: Use one shallot or a fourth of an onion.
Olive Oil: You can use olive oil or avocado oil for this marinade.
Red Wine Vinegar: The red wine vinegar works in conjunction with the other ingredients to provide flavor and tenderize the meat.
Salt & Pepper: Add salt and pepper to the marinade to enhance all of the flavors.

How To Make Lamb Shoulder Chops

Season the lamb generously with salt and pepper. Set aside
Add all the marinade ingredients to the blender and blend until the ingredients are fully combined.
Marinate the lamb shoulder chops for at least 2 hours or up to 12 hours in the refrigerator. This helps to tenderize the chops and provides deep flavor.
When ready to make the chops, heat 1 tbsp cooking oil or butter in a large oven-safe skillet or cast iron. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Add the chops to the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and pan-sear for 2-3 minutes on each side to get a nice, browned exterior.
Transfer the skillet into the oven and cook for at least 10 minutes for rare (15 minutes for medium), flipping halfway through. An instant thermometer should read 125-130°F for rare, 135°F medium-rare, 140°F medium, and 145°F medium-well.
Remove from the oven, and let the lamb shoulder chops rest in the skillet for 5 minutes. Serve with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

Tips To Nailing The Recipe

Pat the lamb chops with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any access liquid. Season the lamb generously with salt and pepper before marinating. Do this first, then prepare the marinade. THEN, add the lamb to the marinade.
Add a variety of fresh herbs. Try adding fresh mint and fresh oregano to the mix for even more flavor. Add a tablespoon or two of each.
Let the lamb marinade as long as possible, overnight is best. The marinade helps tenderize this generally tough cut of meat. The longer the lamb marinades the better the results will be.
Make sure the lamb shoulder chops come to room temperature before cooking to ensure they cook evenly. Do this by placing them on the counter for at least 30 minutes before cooking them.

How Long To Cook Lamb Shoulder Chops

The key to nailing this recipe is all in the marinade and how long you cook the lamb chops. The internal temperature for medium-well lamb should read 145°F, which is the safe temperature according to the USDA recommendations. When lamb is cooked past medium it takes on more of a gamey flavor and becomes tougher as it cooks. Try to cook your lamb between rare and medium for the most optimal texture and flavor: 125°F for rare, 135°F medium-rare, and 140°F medium.

lamb chops served with brussels sprouts and parsnip mash

What To Serve With Lamb Shoulder Chops

This lamb shoulder chops recipe pairs perfectly with any of your favorite sides! I love to serve it with my Creamy Parsnip Mash (pictured above) and a light salad. Here are a few more great options:

I hope you enjoy this Garlic Herb Lamb Chops Recipe!

If you make try the recipe, don’t forget to rate the recipe and let me know what you think in the comments below! Take pictures, tag #goodfoodbaddie, and share them with me on Instagram! I love hearing from you!

Want More Lamb Recipes To Try? Check Out These: