🇬🇷 Greece · Food
Paidákia: Authentic Greek Grilled Lamb Chops
By eatmundo · July 8, 2026
🇬🇷 GRPaidákia are succulent Greek lamb chops, simply marinated with lemon, olive oil, and aromatic oregano before being perfectly grilled. This dish highlights the natural flavors of high-quality lamb, creating a truly unforgettable and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
In a large bowl, combine 60 ml of olive oil, the juice of 2 lemons, 3 minced garlic cloves, 15 ml of dried oregano, and salt and black pepper to taste. Whisk until well combined.
- 2
Add 8 lamb chops (about 1.2 kg total) to the marinade, ensuring each chop is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- 3
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating, remove the lamb chops from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- 4
Place the marinated lamb chops on the hot grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 6-7 minutes per side for medium doneness. Look for a beautiful char and internal temperature of 60-63°C (140-145°F) for medium-rare.
- 5
As the chops cook, rotate them once or twice to ensure even grilling and beautiful grill marks. Don't overcrowd the grill, as this can lower the temperature and steam the meat instead of searing it.
- 6
Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the lamb chops from the grill and transfer them to a clean plate. Tent loosely with foil and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- 7
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring tender and flavorful chops. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh oregano and a squeeze of fresh lemon, accompanied by your favorite Greek sides like tzatziki or roasted potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cut of lamb chop is best for authentic Paidákia?+
For traditional Paidákia, select tender rib chops or loin chops. These cuts grill beautifully, offering a great fat-to-meat ratio and absorbing the Greek marinade effectively.
What is the ideal marinating time for Paidákia to achieve deep flavor?+
Marinate the lamb chops for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, but for optimal, deep Greek flavors, aim for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator. An overnight marinade (up to 12 hours) yields the most intense taste.
How long should I grill Paidákia for medium-rare doneness and what internal temperature should I look for?+
Grill Paidákia for approximately 3-4 minutes per side over high heat for medium-rare, depending on thickness. The internal temperature should register 130-135°F (54-57°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
What's a common mistake to avoid when grilling Paidákia to keep them juicy?+
A common mistake is overcooking, which results in dry chops. Ensure your grill is hot for a quick sear, cook only until medium-rare, and always rest the chops for 5-10 minutes after grilling to retain their juices.
🇬🇷 GRMundo Match
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