Grilled Lamb Chops Mint Couscous

This hearty BBQ Grilled Lamb Chops with Mint Couscous recipe will transform your family dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience with minimal effort. The succulent lamb paired with fluffy mint-infused couscous creates a perfect balance of flavors that's impressive enough for guests yet simple enough for weeknight cooking.

I first created this dish when hosting an impromptu summer gathering and needed something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination was such a hit that it's now my go-to recipe whenever I want to elevate a weeknight dinner without the fuss.

Ingredients

• Lamb chops from rib or loin cuts provide the perfect tenderness and flavor. Look for chops with a nice pink color and some marbling for the juiciest results.
• Olive oil creates the base for the marinade and helps the meat stay moist during grilling.
• Garlic adds essential aromatic flavor to the marinade. Always use fresh cloves rather than pre-minced for maximum impact.
• Smoked paprika delivers that distinctive BBQ flavor without requiring a smoker. The Spanish variety offers the most authentic taste.
• Ground cumin brings earthy warmth that complements the lamb perfectly. Toast it briefly before adding for enhanced flavor.
• Brown sugar caramelizes beautifully on the grill and balances the savory elements.
• BBQ sauce adds instant depth and helps create a delicious crust when grilled.
• Couscous serves as the perfect quick-cooking base for absorbing the bright mint flavors. Pearl couscous works beautifully too if you prefer more texture.
• Fresh mint leaves provide essential brightness that cuts through the rich lamb. Choose vibrant green leaves without any brown spots.
• Lemon zest and juice add necessary acidity that brings all flavors together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the marinade

Combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, brown sugar, and BBQ sauce in a bowl. Season generously with salt and pepper, whisking until fully integrated. The marinade should have a thick consistency that will adhere well to the meat. This flavor base is crucial, so take your time mixing thoroughly.

Marinate the lamb

Coat each lamb chop thoroughly with the marinade, massaging it into all surfaces. Place in a container or zip-top bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though overnight marination will yield the most flavorful results. Bring the lamb to room temperature about 20 minutes before cooking for even grilling.

Prepare the couscous

Place dry couscous in a heatproof bowl and add butter or olive oil along with lemon zest. Pour hot broth over the mixture and immediately cover with a tight-fitting lid. Let it stand undisturbed for exactly 5 minutes. The steam will perfectly cook the couscous without any additional heat needed.

Finish the couscous

Remove the lid and fluff the couscous gently with a fork to separate the grains. Fold in the chopped mint, lemon juice, and any optional ingredients. The texture should be light and fluffy, not clumpy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Grill the lamb chops

Preheat your grill or grill pan until smoking hot. Place the marinated chops on the grill surface, allowing them to cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until dark grill marks form. Flip once and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes for medium-rare or longer for desired doneness. The caramelization from the sugar and BBQ sauce creates a beautiful crust.

Rest and serve

Transfer the grilled lamb chops to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Allow them to rest for 5 full minutes so the juices redistribute throughout the meat. Serve over the mint couscous, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Save

The smoked paprika is honestly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its transformative powers during a cooking class in Barcelona and now keep multiple varieties in my spice cabinet. The depth it adds to the lamb marinade cannot be replicated with regular paprika, so this is one ingredient I never substitute.

Perfect Pairings

This lamb and couscous combination works beautifully alongside a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. The cool, crisp vegetables provide textural contrast and help balance the richness of the lamb. For a complete Mediterranean-inspired feast, add some warm pita bread and a dollop of tzatziki sauce on the side.

Storage Solutions

The cooked lamb chops will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, bring them to room temperature first, then warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This gentle reheating prevents the meat from becoming tough. The couscous can be stored separately and reheated with a splash of broth or water in the microwave until steaming.

Make It Your Own

While traditional lamb chops work perfectly in this recipe, you can easily adapt it for other cuts like lamb shoulder steaks or even boneless leg of lamb sliced into steaks. For a budget-friendly version, try using the same marinade on chicken thighs or pork chops. The mint couscous can be customized with dried cranberries and toasted pine nuts for a more festive presentation, or spiced up with a pinch of harissa paste for heat lovers.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I know when lamb chops are properly cooked?

For medium-rare lamb chops, grill for 3-4 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). For medium, aim for 160°F (71°C). Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The chops should have a caramelized exterior and slightly pink center for optimal juiciness and flavor.

→ Can I prepare the lamb chops ahead of time?

Yes! The lamb chops can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance and kept refrigerated. This actually enhances flavor development. Just remove them from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling to allow them to come to room temperature for more even cooking.

→ What can I substitute for couscous?

If you don't have couscous, you can substitute quinoa, bulgur wheat, orzo pasta, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each alternative will have a slightly different cooking time and liquid ratio, so adjust accordingly. The mint and lemon flavors will complement any of these base options.

→ What side dishes pair well with BBQ lamb chops?

Besides the mint couscous, consider serving grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers. A Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese also complements the flavors nicely. For a heartier meal, add roasted potatoes with rosemary or a simple cucumber yogurt sauce on the side.

→ How can I adapt this dish for different dietary needs?

For gluten-free diets, replace the couscous with quinoa or rice. For dairy-free, use olive oil instead of butter in the couscous. To reduce sugar, omit the brown sugar in the marinade and use a sugar-free BBQ sauce. You can also add more vegetables to the couscous like diced bell peppers or cucumber for extra nutrition.

→ What type of BBQ sauce works best for the lamb chops?

A slightly sweet and smoky BBQ sauce complements lamb beautifully. Look for varieties with notes of molasses or honey. For a Mediterranean twist, consider mixing your BBQ sauce with a tablespoon of pomegranate molasses or a teaspoon of harissa paste. Avoid overly sweet or bourbon-based sauces that might overpower the lamb's natural flavor.