🥩 Classic Grilled (or Pan-Seared) Meat Chops
Ingredients
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4 meat chops (lamb, pork, or beef), about 1 inch thick
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar (optional, for tenderness)
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1 teaspoon paprika or chili flakes (optional, for flavor)
Instructions
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Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and (if using) lemon juice and paprika. -
Marinate the Chops:
Rub the mixture over the meat chops, making sure both sides are coated well.
Cover and let sit for 30 minutes to 2 hours (refrigerate if marinating longer). -
Cook the Chops:
For Grilling:
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Preheat the grill to medium-high.
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Grill chops for 4–6 minutes per side (depending on thickness).
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Rest 5 minutes before serving.
For Pan-Searing:
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Heat a heavy skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
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Add a little oil and sear chops 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
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Lower the heat slightly and cook through to your desired doneness.
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Rest before serving.
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Optional Glaze (for extra flavor):
Mix 1 tablespoon honey with 1 tablespoon soy sauce or balsamic vinegar and brush over the chops during the last minute of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or rice pilaf.
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Add a side of mint chutney (for lamb) or apple sauce (for pork).
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A simple Greek salad or coleslaw also pairs beautifully.
Would you like me to tailor this recipe specifically for lamb chops, pork chops, or beef chops? The seasoning and cooking time change slightly depending on the meat.
