Easy Grilled Lamb Rib Chops
TLDR:
Grilled lamb lollipops are one of the easiest and fastest meats to cook on the BBQ. Season with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper, then grill 2–3 minutes per side for juicy, tender lamb every time.
If lamb hasn’t made its way onto your grill lately, it might be time to give it another look.
For years, lamb had a reputation for being strong, gamey, and something you only ordered in a restaurant. Today’s Ontario lamb is a different story. Local producers are raising exceptional lamb with a mild, delicate flavour that is winning over a whole new generation of home cooks.
And if you’re looking for the easiest place to start, lamb rib chops are it.
You may have seen them called “lamb lollipops” on restaurant menus. While the nickname is fun, these tender little chops deserve their proper name. They are cut from the rack, usually with the bones cleaned for presentation, making them one of the quickest and most impressive things you can throw on the grill.
Why We Love Lamb Rib Chops
Lamb rib chops cook in minutes, require very little seasoning, and look downright fancy on a serving platter.
We recently picked up a package of Ontario lamb rib chops and were reminded why we love them so much. A little olive oil, some fresh herbs, a hot grill, and dinner was on the table before the potatoes were finished cooking. Perfect alongside our Grilled Vegetables.
That’s our kind of summer meal.
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 10 Minutes
- Total Time: 20 Minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 lamb rib chops
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- A lemon wedge for serving.
Instructions
-
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Pat the lamb dry with paper towel.
- Toss the chops with olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, and garlic.
- Grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side.
- Remove from the grill and rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with a wedge of lemon and squeeze fresh just before serving.
Notes
How Long Do Lamb Rib Chops Take to Grill?
Not long.
Because lamb rib chops are small and tender, they cook very quickly. We recommend using an instant-read thermometer rather than relying solely on time.
Internal Temperatures for Lamb
- Rare: 125°F (52°C)
- Medium-Rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
We prefer lamb rib chops cooked medium-rare. The meat stays juicy, tender, and beautifully pink in the centre.
Chef Tips for Grilling Lamb
Keep It Simple
One of the biggest mistakes people make with lamb is over-seasoning it. Good Ontario lamb has a naturally mild flavour that doesn’t need much help.
Salt, pepper, garlic, and rosemary are often all you need.
Don’t Overcook It
Lamb rib chops are very forgiving, but they are at their best when cooked medium-rare to medium.
Let Them Rest
Five minutes of resting time makes a big difference. The juices stay where they belong instead of running onto the cutting board.
What to Serve with Lamb Rib Chops
These chops pair beautifully with:
- Grilled asparagus
- Greek potatoes
- Couscous salad
- Serve with a dip of our Tzatziki for a perfect appetizer!
- Chimichurri
- Grilled zucchini and peppers
They’re also fantastic as part of a larger BBQ spread when you’re entertaining friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lamb rib chops the same as lamb lollipops?
Yes. Lamb lollipops are simply lamb rib chops that have been trimmed and presented with a clean bone handle.
Is Ontario lamb gamey?
Not at all. Modern Ontario lamb is known for its mild flavour and tenderness. If you’ve avoided lamb in the past because you thought it was too strong, it’s worth trying again.
Can I marinate lamb rib chops?
Absolutely. A simple mixture of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs works beautifully.
Our Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for something a little different from steak, burgers, or chicken this summer, give Ontario lamb rib chops a try. They’re quick, easy, elegant, and one of the most underrated cuts for the grill.
And who knows? You might find yourself calling them lamb lollipops before the meal is over.