Air Fryer Lamb Chops

The air fryer changed everything for me when it comes to lamb chops. I used to reserve them for restaurant dinners, convinced they required some professional technique I could not master. Then one rainy Tuesday, I decided to experiment, and the results were so good I actually served them to friends that weekend without changing a thing.

My husband usually requests these for special occasions now. He stood by the air fryer the first time I made them, watching the timer like a hawk, and now he is the one who reminds me to let the meat rest before cutting. Those little moments in the kitchen together have become part of the ritual.

Ingredients

• Lamb rib chops: Look for chops about 1 inch thick with good marbling and a nice layer of fat on the edge
• Olive oil: Helps the herbs adhere and promotes even browning in the air fryer
• Fresh rosemary and thyme: These woody herbs stand up beautifully to the rich flavor of lamb
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Generous seasoning is essential since we are not using a complicated marinade
• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature so it melts instantly over the hot chops
• Fresh garlic: Three cloves might seem like a lot, but lamb can handle the bold flavor
• Fresh parsley and lemon zest: These bright elements cut through the richness and add freshness

Instructions

Prep the lamb chops:

Pat the chops completely dry with paper towels so they sear rather than steam in the air fryer

Season generously:

Rub the olive oil and herb mixture all over each chop, pressing the herbs into the meat to help them stick

Preheat your air fryer:

Set it to 400°F and let it run empty for 3 minutes while you finish preparing the garlic butter

Make the garlic butter:

Mix softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and lemon zest until well combined

Cook the chops:

Arrange them in a single layer without touching, air fry for 6 minutes, flip carefully, and cook another 4 to 6 minutes for medium-rare

Add the finishing touch:

Immediately spoon that garlic butter over each hot chop and let them rest for a few minutes before serving

Pin

Something so satisfying about placing those plattered chops on the table and watching everyone reach for the same one simultaneously. The garlic butter scent alone draws people into the kitchen before I have even finished plating.

Getting The Right Doneness

I have learned that visual cues can be misleading with lamb. An instant-read thermometer is your best friend here, and I keep one handy in my utensil drawer just for this recipe. Medium-rare hits at 130°F to 135°F when you insert the thermometer into the thickest part without touching bone.

Choosing Your Chops

rib chops are my go-to because they have that perfect single bone and generous eye of meat. Ask your butcher to French them if you want that restaurant presentation where the bone is clean and exposed. I have found that thicker chops, about 1 inch, stay juicier than thinner ones that can overcook in a heartbeat.

What To Serve With Lamb Chops

Roasted vegetables with a little char from the oven complement the slight char from the air fryer beautifully. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette also works wonders, balancing the richness with something fresh and bright.

• Mashed cauliflower or roasted potatoes would soak up that garlic butter nicely
• Grilled asparagus or broccolini cook in about the same time as the lamb chops
• A glass of bold red wine, maybe a Cabernet or Syrah, pairs perfectly with lamb

Pin

There is something profoundly satisfying about a recipe that looks and tastes impressive but comes together so effortlessly. These lamb chops have earned a permanent spot in my weeknight rotation, and I suspect they will find their way into yours too.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I ensure lamb chops are cooked medium-rare?

Cook the chops in the air fryer at 400°F for 6 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 4–6 minutes depending on thickness. Let them rest to retain juices.

→ Can dried herbs be used instead of fresh?

Yes, use half the amount of dried rosemary and thyme if fresh herbs are unavailable to maintain balanced seasoning.

→ What is the purpose of the garlic butter topping?

The garlic butter adds richness and a bright, savory finish that enhances the lamb’s natural flavors while keeping it moist.

→ Is air frying better than traditional cooking for lamb chops?

Air frying provides a quick, even cook with a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender, making it a convenient method for this cut.

→ What side dishes pair well with these lamb chops?

Roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or lightly steamed greens complement the rich flavors and keep the meal balanced.