Spiced Pan-Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Yogurt Sauce

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

Tender lamb chops marinated in warm spices and grilled in a pan, paired with a cooling mint yogurt sauce. This middle eastern-inspired lamb ready in about 35 minutes blends 1-inch thick lamb chops, ground cumin, ground coriander 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 380 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: 25 min Cook: 10 min Serves 3 Middle Eastern cuisine 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp paprika, 2 minced garlic cloves, 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Rub this spice mixture all over 6 lamb chops (1-inch thick), cover, and marinate at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, about 3 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Add the lamb chops and cook for 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer to desired doneness, until a deep brown crust forms.
  5. Step 5: While the lamb cooks, mix 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt with 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint leaves and 1 tbsp lemon juice in a small bowl.
  6. Step 6: Remove lamb chops from the pan, let rest for 5 minutes, and serve with the mint yogurt sauce spooned on top or on the side.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Spiced Pan-Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Yogurt Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (25 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 Spiced Pan-Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint 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 Spiced Pan-Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint 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 Spiced Pan-Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint 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 Spiced Pan-Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Yogurt Sauce?

Middle Eastern 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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