Name: Grilled Lamb Chops with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-492909H37M14S
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Argentinian
Ingredients: 1-2 racks of lamb (7-9 lamb chops each); Salt, to taste; Ground black pepper, to taste; 3/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup red wine vinegar; 1 cup packed parsley leaves; 1/2 cup packed cilantro leaves; 2 tablespoons chives or green onions, sliced; 2-4 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt, to taste; Ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 30 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that brilliantly balances smoky, tender meat with a fresh, zesty punch, the Grilled Lamb Chops with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. These lamb chops come out perfectly seared on the outside, juicy and succulent inside, while the vibrant chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs and garlic adds a lively, irresistible flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just wanting a deliciously simple meal, this recipe will become your go-to for an impressive, restaurant-quality dinner at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl filled with several raw lamb chops. The lamb chops have a fresh, red color with some white fat around the edges. A green sauce, likely a herb marinade, is drizzled generously over the meat, giving it a bright and fresh look. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with a small glass bowl containing more green sauce visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Grilled Lamb Chops with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe is all about straightforward, fresh ingredients that each play a key role in delivering that bold and balanced flavor. From fragrant herbs to the richness of olive oil, every component brings something special to the table.

1-2 racks of lamb, 7-9 lamb chops each: Choose quality lamb with a good amount of marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Salt and ground black pepper: Simple seasonings that perfectly enhance the natural taste of the lamb.
3/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a lush texture in the chimichurri sauce.
1/4 cup red wine vinegar: Brings brightness and acidity to balance the herbs and garlic.
1 cup parsley leaves, packed: The fresh herb base that gives the sauce its vivid green color and vibrant taste.
1/2 cup cilantro leaves, packed: Adds a bright, slightly citrusy note to the chimichurri.
2 tablespoons chives or green onions: Offers a mild onion flavor without overpowering the sauce.
2-4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic’s pungency is essential for that signature punch in chimichurri.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Gives the sauce a subtle kick, adjustable based on your heat preference.

How to Make Grilled Lamb Chops with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Grill

First, crank your grill up high and let it heat for at least 20 to 30 minutes with the lid closed. This ensures the grates get super hot to sear those lamb chops beautifully. Don’t forget to clean the grates thoroughly beforehand. For a nonstick surface, dip a wad of paper towels in some oil, hold it with tongs, and wipe the grill grates 3 to 5 times. This little trick helps create that perfect sear without sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Lamb Chops

Trim any excessive fat from the racks and slice them into individual chops, ideally with two rib bones per chop for the best balance of meat and flavor. Season all sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, letting those simple seasonings awaken the lamb’s natural taste.

Step 3: Make the Chimichurri Sauce

Remove the parsley and cilantro leaves from their stems, packing them tightly for an accurate measurement. Slice your chives or green onions and mince the garlic finely. Processing these ingredients together with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and optional crushed red pepper flakes gives you a perfectly smooth and flavorful chimichurri. Be sure to set aside half of the sauce to serve on the side later—it really elevates the grilled lamb chops.

Step 4: Marinate the Lamb Chops

Pour the other half of the chimichurri directly over the lamb chops and give them a good toss. This marinade step infuses incredible flavor and keeps the meat moist and tender while grilling. It’s like a shower of fresh herbs and tangy goodness coating every bite.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Place your lamb chops diagonally across the hot grill grates to create those beautiful grill marks. Cook covered for about five minutes on one side to get a golden sear. Then flip the chops onto another hot part of the grill to sear the other side, cooking for an additional 3 to 5 minutes depending on thickness and your preferred level of doneness. Keep an eye on them so they stay juicy and tender inside.

Step 6: Serve with Reserved Chimichurri

Serve your grilled lamb chops hot, paired generously with the reserved fresh chimichurri sauce. The combination is simply unbeatable—a smoky, savory lamb chop with that fresh, herbaceous punch of chimichurri that ties everything together perfectly.

How to Serve Grilled Lamb Chops with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe

A white plate holds a pile of grilled lamb chops stacked close together, each chop showing dark grill marks and a light brown cooked surface. The chops are topped with chopped green herbs mixed with oil that shine under the light. The lamb meat looks tender with a slight char, and some of the bones stick out from the top, adding height to the stack. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a red and white striped cloth underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Grilled Lamb Chops with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe even more inviting, consider sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top. A wedge of lemon on the side not only brightens the presentation but allows you to add an extra citrusy zing just before digging in. For a little extra texture, toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds scattered on the plate add a lovely crunch.

Side Dishes

These lamb chops love company! Complement them with sides that balance the herbs and richness of the meat. Think along the lines of grilled vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus all get beautifully smoky flavors to match the lamb. Or keep it comforting with creamy mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad tossed with lemon and olive oil. The acid in chimichurri pairs especially well with starchy or fresh, crisp sides.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a dinner and want to impress, serve the lamb chops arranged on a large wooden board or platter, drizzling some extra chimichurri sauce over each chop for an irresistible gloss. Garnish with colorful edible flowers or microgreens to elevate your presentation to next-level wow factor. You can even offer the chimichurri sauce in small ramekins on the side so guests can customize each bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Grilled Lamb Chops with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep wonderfully for up to 3 days, retaining most of their tenderness and vibrant flavor. Just keep the lamb and chimichurri separate to preserve each element’s freshness.

Freezing

Freezing grilled lamb chops is totally doable if you want to enjoy this delicious meal later. Place the lamb chops in a freezer-safe container or bag, keeping the chimichurri sauce apart in a separate sealed container. Frozen lamb chops taste best within 2 to 3 months for optimal texture and flavor.

Reheating

For the best results when reheating, gently warm the lamb chops in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven wrapped loosely in foil to prevent drying out. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can toughen the meat. Add fresh chimichurri just before serving to bring back that bright, fresh flavor punch you fell in love with.

FAQs

Can I use different herbs if I don’t have cilantro or parsley?

Absolutely! While parsley and cilantro are classic for this chimichurri, you can experiment with herbs like basil, mint, or oregano to give the sauce a unique twist. Just keep the herb balance fresh and vibrant for that authentic chimichurri vibe.

How do I know when the lamb chops are done?

Cooking times vary by thickness, but generally, medium rare chops take about 8 to 10 minutes total on the grill. Using a meat thermometer can help—aim for an internal temperature of 135°F before resting. Resting the meat briefly after grilling allows juices to redistribute for extra tenderness.

Is the crushed red pepper flakes necessary in the chimichurri sauce?

It’s optional! The pepper flakes add a welcome hint of heat that contrasts nicely with the freshness of the herbs, but if you prefer no spice or a milder sauce, feel free to leave it out or reduce the amount.

Can I make the chimichurri sauce in advance?

Yes, chimichurri actually tastes better after resting for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld together beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for a barbecue party?

Definitely! The Grilled Lamb Chops with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe is perfect for entertaining because it’s easy to prepare ahead and grill quickly. It’s elegant yet approachable, sure to impress friends and family without keeping you stuck in the kitchen.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the combination of tender grilled lamb chops paired with the herbaceous, tangy chimichurri sauce. This Grilled Lamb Chops with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe is a celebration of bold flavors made simple, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try. Once you do, it will quickly become one of your favorite dishes to make and share with those you love.