If you’re looking for a delicious, fuss-free way to cook lamb chops, your air fryer is about to become your new best friend. Traditionally, lamb chops are pan-fried or grilled, which can sometimes leave you with uneven cooking or a smoky kitchen. But with the air fryer, you get perfectly tender, juicy lamb with a gorgeous golden crust every single time, and with far less effort.
These air fryer lamb chops are seasoned simply with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, which pair beautifully with the natural richness of the meat. A touch of smoked paprika adds depth, while a squeeze of lemon at the end brightens everything up. It’s a flavour combination that feels both classic and a little bit special, making it just as suitable for a weeknight dinner as it is for entertaining guests.
The best part? From start to finish, this recipe takes less than 25 minutes, and most of that time is hands-off. The air fryer does all the hard work, circulating hot air around the lamb chops to lock in moisture while creating that irresistible seared edge. Whether you like your lamb medium-rare, medium, or well-done, it’s easy to adjust the cooking time to suit your taste.
Serve your lamb chops with creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp salad, or even some air-fried veggies for a complete meal. You’ll be surprised at just how simple it is to achieve restaurant-quality results without firing up the grill or turning on the oven. Once you’ve tried lamb chops in the air fryer, you may never cook them any other way again!
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 8-12 minutes
SERVES 2-4 people
KIT you will need an air-fryer
Ingredients for Air Fryer Lamb Chops
4 to 6 lamb chops (about 2 to 3cm thick)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 tsp of dried)
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp of dried)
A tsp of smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Lemon wedges, for serving
Method
SoStart by patting your lamb chops dry with kitchen paper. This step is important because any excess moisture can stop them from browning properly in the air fryer. Dry lamb chops will sear beautifully and develop that golden crust everyone loves.
Next mix the marinade. So in a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning mix enhances the natural flavour of the lamb without overpowering it. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried ones work just as well.
Then rub the marinade all over the lamb chops, making sure each one is evenly coated. For the best flavour, cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. If you’re short on time, even 10 minutes at room temperature will make a difference. For a deeper flavour, you can prepare them the night before.
Then set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and let it preheat for a few minutes. Starting with a hot basket helps to sear the outside of the lamb quickly, locking in the juices.
Place the lamb chops in a single layer in the basket, leaving the crisper plate in. Make sure you leave space between them for the air to circulate. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes on each side, depending on thickness and how well you like them done. For medium-rare, aim for 8 minutes total; for medium, about 10 minutes; and for well-done, closer to 12 minutes.
Once cooked, remove the lamb chops and let them rest for 3 to 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and succulent. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving..
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Lamb Chops
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Lamb has such a rich, distinctive flavour that pairs beautifully with a range of seasonings, sides, and sauces. Here are some easy tips and variations to help you make this dish your own:
1. Adjust the seasoning
While garlic, rosemary, and thyme are classic pairings for lamb, don’t be afraid to experiment. Try a Middle Eastern twist by adding ground cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon. For a Mediterranean vibe, mix in oregano, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil. A touch of harissa paste will add some heat and smokiness.
2. Doneness matters
Use a meat thermometer for perfect results every time. Aim for 60°C (140°F) for medium-rare, 65°C (150°F) for medium, and 70°C (160°F) for well done. Since lamb continues to cook slightly as it rests, remove it from the air fryer just below your target temperature.
3. Don’t overcrowd the basket
Air circulation is key to even cooking. If you’re cooking more than 4 lamb chops, work in batches so that each chop has space to crisp up nicely.
4. Serving ideas
For a hearty meal, pair your lamb chops with mashed potatoes, roast vegetables, or air fryer chips. If you’re after something lighter, a crisp Greek salad or couscous with roasted veg is perfect. A mint yogurt dip or chimichurri sauce also makes a refreshing accompaniment.
5. Quick finishing touch
For added flavour, brush the lamb chops with honey, balsamic glaze, or a little butter in the final 2 minutes of cooking. This creates a glossy finish and enhances the natural richness of the meat.
With these tips and variations, your air fryer lamb chops will never get boring, and you’ll have endless ways to enjoy this easy yet impressive meal..
Related Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed making these juicy Air Fryer Lamb Chops, why not try some of my other air fryer meat recipes? Each one is simple, flavour-packed, and designed to give you delicious results with minimal effort. Here are a few more you might like:
Air Fryer Lamb Steaks
Another lamb favourite! These tender lamb steaks are just as quick and easy as chops, but with a slightly meatier bite. Perfect for a speedy midweek dinner.
Air Fryer Pork Pinchos
Packed with smoky paprika and garlic, these Spanish-inspired pork skewers are a real crowd-pleaser. Ideal for sharing or serving with tapas-style sides.
Air Fryer Kebabs
This recipe is so incredibly simple to prepare and cooks in no time. Making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Air Fryer Pork Chops
Perfectly seasoned and cooked until tender, air fryer pork chops are a quick, family-friendly dinner that’s easy to pair with potatoes, rice, or fresh veg.
Air Fryer Tuna Steak
Coated in sesame seeds and cooked to perfection in just a few minutes, these tuna steaks are so crisp on the outside, beautifully tender in the middle, and bursting with fresh flavour.
These recipes are all so quick, easy, and use simple ingredients you probably have at home.
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