Cooking lamb chops on the barbecue is a quick and delicious way to prepare this tasty meat. But getting the cook time just right is important to ensure the lamb chops come out moist, tender and full of flavor. This guide will provide tips on precisely how long to barbecue lamb chops.
Factors That Affect BBQ Lamb Chop Cook Times
There are a few key factors that impact cooking times when grilling lamb chops.
Thickness of the Chops
The thickness of the lamb chops is the primary factor that will determine how long they need to cook. Thinner chops will be done faster while thicker chops require more time on the grill.
- Thin chops cut under 1 inch thick will take 6-8 minutes total cook time.
- Medium chops 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick will take 8-10 minutes.
- Thick chops over 1 1/2 inches will need 10-12 minutes or more.
Always consider the thickness when estimating cook times. Thinner boneless chops cook faster than bone-in varieties as well.
Bone-In vs Boneless
Bone-in lamb chops will take a few minutes longer than boneless. The bone helps insulate the meat slightly and prevents it from cooking too quickly.
- Boneless chops will cook the fastest in 6-10 minutes depending on thickness.
- Bone-in chops require 8-12 minutes or more depending on cut and thickness.
Cut of the Lamb Chop
The specific cut of lamb chop will impact cook times slightly. Center cut loin chops are quickest since they are smaller and more tender. Rib and shoulder chops are larger and require a minute or two more.
- Small center loin chops take 6-8 minutes.
- Larger rib and shoulder chops need 8-12 minutes.
Temperature of the Grill
A hotter grill will cook the lamb chops faster while a lower temp requires more time. Use a moderate temperature between medium and medium high heat.
- Hot grill around 450°F will cook chops in 6-8 minutes.
- Medium heat around 375°F will take 8-10 minutes.
- Low heat under 300°F will require 10-12+ minutes.
Preferred Doneness
Cook times will vary slightly depending on desired doneness. Lamb can be enjoyed anywhere from rare to well done.
- For rare cook 5-6 minutes.
- For medium rare 6-8 minutes.
- Cook for medium 8-10 minutes.
- For well done allow 10-12+ minutes.
Use a meat thermometer to test doneness rather than relying solely on time. Cook to 5 degrees below target temp.
How to Tell When Lamb Chops Are Done
Checking for doneness using more than just estimated cook times is important for perfect lamb. Here are ways to test when they are ready to come off the grill:
Use a Meat Thermometer
A digital instant read thermometer is the most reliable way to check for doneness. Test center and thickest areas of the chops.
- For rare lamb cook to 125-130°F
- For medium rare 130-135°F is ideal.
- Cook lamb chops to 135-140°F for medium doneness.
- Well done is around 145°F+.
Always rest lamb for 5 minutes after removing from grill before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. The temp will rise 5-10 degrees during this time.
Flip and Check Appearance
Carefully flip one chop over and check the color of the interior meat. It should match the desired doneness.
- Rare will be very red and cool in center.
- At medium rare the middle will still be slightly red.
- For medium interiors will be light pink.
- Well done lamb will show no signs of pink.
Do a Quick Cut
Make a small slice into the center of one chop to visually inspect the color inside. Again it should match the preferred doneness.
Test for Firmness
Use tongs to gently press the lamb chops. They will firm up as they cook.
- Rare chops will still be quite soft.
- Medium rare will be lightly firm.
- Medium chops will feel firmer.
- Well done chops will be very firm when squeezed.
Watch for Shrinkage
As lamb cooks it will shrink and pull away from the bone slightly. This is most noticeable on bone-in cuts.
- Rare chops will not shrink much.
- At medium rare there will be a little pull back.
- Medium chops will show more shrinkage and pull away.
- Well done chops will shrink considerably and bone will be exposed.
Use multiple testing methods to ensure the lamb is cooked properly without cutting into chops too soon. Track cook times as well for most accurate results.
How Long to BBQ Different Cuts of Lamb Chops
Now that the factors are covered, here is a detailed grill time chart for various lamb chop cuts and thicknesses.
Boneless Lamb Loin Chops
- 3/4 inch thick – Grill for 6-7 minutes total.
- 1 inch thick – Allow 7-8 minutes on medium high heat.
- 1 1/2 inches – Cook for 8-10 minutes.
Bone-In Lamb Loin Chops
- 3/4 inch thick – Grill for 8-9 minutes altogether.
- 1 inch thick – Cook for 9-10 minutes on a hot grill.
- 1 1/2 inch chops – Allow 10-12 minutes to reach desired doneness.
Lamb Shoulder Chops
- 3/4 inch thick – Grill for 8-9 minutes total time.
- 1 inch chops – Cook for 9-11 minutes on medium high.
- 1 1/2 inches – Allow 11-13 minutes for medium doneness.
Thick Lamb Rib Chops
- 1 inch chops – Cook for 9-11 minutes.
- 1 1/2 inches – Grill for 11-13 minutes.
- 2 inch extra thick – Allow 12-15+ minutes.
These estimates are for chops grilled over a medium high heat around 375°F. Adjust times up or down slightly for lower or hotter temperatures. Always test doneness with a thermometer before removing from grill.
Tips for Grilling Juicy Lamb Chops
Follow these additional tips for maximum juiciness when cooking lamb chops on the barbecue:
- Allow chops to marinate for 1-2 hours before grilling. This tenderizes and adds moisture.
- Pat chops dry before cooking to improve browning.
- Start chops over direct heat for sear marks then move to indirect heat to finish cooking.
- Flip only once during cooking unless chops are very thick.
- Avoid overcooking lamb beyond medium doneness to prevent drying out.
- Let chops rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing for juicier meat.
- Slice chops across the grain for tenderest bites.
Proper preparation and monitoring while grilling will result in tender and moist lamb every time.
Common BBQ Lamb Chops Questions
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about cooking lamb chops on the grill:
What is the best cut of lamb chops for the grill?
Loin chops from the center of the lamb are considered the most tender and premium grilling option. Rib and shoulder chops work well too due to nice marbling.
Should lamb chops be marinated?
Yes, marinating lamb chops for 1-2 hours adds flavor and tenderizes the meat. Use oil, vinegar, garlic, spices, herbs, yogurt or wine based marinades.
What temperature should I cook lamb chops to?
For medium rare lamb cook to an internal temperature of 130-135°F. Increase cook times for further doneness. Always rest lamb for 5+ minutes before serving.
Do you sear both sides of lamb chops?
Searing the presentation side with sear marks is recommended for appearance and flavor. Lightly browning the second side is optional if time allows.
What are the best seasoning rubs for lamb chops?
Garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, cumin, curry, chili powder, mustard and citrus all pair well. Create your own spice rubs for lamb.
Is grilled lamb safe at medium rare?
Yes, lamb is most tender and juicy at medium rare doneness around 135°F. Ground lamb should be cooked to 160°F minimum for safety.
Can I grill previously frozen lamb chops?
Grilling thawed lamb chops is fine but may require slightly longer cook times. Always thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
How can you tell when lamb is bad?
Fresh lamb will be pink, moist and free of foul odors. Discard if meat is gray, sticky, dry or smells unpleasant. Use frozen chops within 4-6 months.
Grilling Times for Different Cuts of Lamb
Here is an overview of estimated grill times for other common cuts of lamb besides chops:
Lamb Leg Steaks
- 3/4 inch thick – Grill for 10-12 minutes.
- 1 inch thick – Allow 12-15 minutes.
- 1 1/2 inch – Cook 15-18 minutes.
Lamb Loin Roast
- 2 pound roast – Grill for 25-30 minutes total.
- 3 pound roast – Cook for 35-40 minutes.
- 5 pound roast – Allow 50-60 minutes.
Butterflied Leg of Lamb
- 2 pound leg – Grill for 30-35 minutes.
- 4 pound leg – Cook for 45-50 minutes.
- 6 pound leg – Allow 60-70+ minutes.
Lamb Kebabs
- 1-2 inch chunks – Cook for 12-15 minutes turning frequently.
Ground Lamb Burgers
- 1/2 inch thick – Grill for 8-10 minutes.
- 3/4 inch burgers – Cook for 10-12 minutes.
Rotate lamb chops and meat cuts for even cooking. Test temperature with a meat thermometer for best accuracy.
Grilling Lamb Safely
Always follow these guidelines for safe grilling practices when cooking lamb:
- Wash hands, prep area, grill surface and utensils before and after.
- Defrost frozen lamb properly in the refrigerator 1-2 days before grilling.
- Marinate lamb in the refrigerator up to 24-48 hours for food safety.
- Preheat grill fully to kill any bacteria before cooking.
- Use separate platters and utensils for raw and cooked lamb.
- Cook lamb chops and other cuts to safe minimum internal temperatures.
- Refrigerate leftovers within 1-2 hours and use within 3-5 days.
Proper handling and sanitation will keep grilled lamb safe to enjoy.
Conclusion
Cooking lamb chops on the grill is quick and easy when you know how long to cook them. Boneless chops take about 6-10 minutes while bone-in cuts require 8-12+ minutes depending on thickness. Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium rare doneness. Use a meat thermometer and employ multiple testing methods to determine when lamb chops are done. Allowing time to marinate and rest results in the juiciest chops. Follow these tips and grill times for perfect barbecue lamb chops.