Pan-Seared Lamb Chops with Za'atar and Sumac Yogurt Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender lamb chops seasoned with za'atar spice blend, served with a tangy sumac-infused yogurt sauce that highlights classic Lebanese flavors. This lebanese-inspired lamb ready in about 20 minutes blends (about 1.5 lbs) lamb chops, za'atar, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 370 calories and feeds 3, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 3 Lebanese cuisine 370 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 6 lamb chops and season evenly with 2 tbsp za'atar, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper on both sides. Drizzle 2 tbsp olive oil over the chops and rub the seasoning in.
  2. Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil. When shimmering, add the lamb chops and sear for 4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms and internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
  3. Step 3: While lamb cooks, mix 1 cup Greek yogurt with 1 tbsp sumac, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint in a bowl. Stir until smooth and refrigerate.
  4. Step 4: Once lamb chops are cooked, rest them on a plate for 5 minutes. Serve each chop topped with 2 tbsp of the sumac yogurt sauce alongside fresh greens or warm pita bread.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Lamb Chops with Za'atar and Sumac Yogurt Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Lamb Chops with Za'atar and Sumac Yogurt Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Lamb Chops with Za'atar and Sumac Yogurt Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Seared Lamb Chops with Za'atar and Sumac Yogurt Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 3 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 3). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Pan-Seared Lamb Chops with Za'atar and Sumac Yogurt Sauce?

Lebanese lamb like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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