Air Fryer Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops with Mint Chimichurri
Tender lamb rib chops coated in a fragrant fresh herb crust and air fried to a crisp finish, served with a zesty mint chimichurri sauce. This Mediterranean main course is ready in 30 minutes, making it a perfect and gourmet weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
- 8 lamb rib chops (about 1 inch thick, approx. 1 lb)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 lemon, zested
- For the Mint Chimichurri
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves (or 1 tbsp dried oregano)
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy crust.
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In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to form an herb paste.
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Rub the herb mixture evenly over each lamb chop. Let rest at room temperature while preparing the chimichurri, about 10 minutes.
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Prepare the mint chimichurri by pulsing mint leaves, parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar in a food processor until finely chopped but not pureed.
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With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the sauce emulsifies and becomes slightly chunky. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Set aside.
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Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
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Arrange lamb chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.
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Air fry for 7 minutes, then flip and cook an additional 6–8 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature about 135°F), adjusting time for preferred doneness.
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Remove chops and rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
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Serve hot with a generous spoonful of mint chimichurri, either drizzled on top or on the side for dipping.
Recipe guidance
Crispiness Control
Pat the lamb rib chops dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.
Storage
Store leftover Air Fryer Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops with Mint Chimichurri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.
FAQ
- Can I make Air Fryer Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops with Mint Chimichurri ahead of time?
- You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
- How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?
- Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
- Can I adjust the seasoning?
- Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.
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