2 Easy Easter Main Dishes: Grilled Chicken & Lamb Chops
Introduction
Welcome to a special episode where we're diving into the art of grilling for Easter, or truly any day that calls for a celebration with delicious food. Today, we're focusing on two main dishes that are perfect for the grill: Grilled Lamb Chops and Balsamic Lemon Dijon Grilled Chicken Thighs. These recipes are not only festive for Easter but also versatile enough to enjoy all year round. Whether you're a traditionalist who loves lamb for Easter or you're catering to guests with different tastes, these dishes offer something for everyone.
Ingredients for Grilled Lamb Chops
- Baby Lamb Chops
- Garlic, grated
- White Wine (Pinot Grigio recommended)
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Salt
- Hot Pepper Flakes
- Fresh Rosemary
Ingredients for Balsamic Lemon Dijon Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
- Lemon Juice (about 1/4 cup)
- Balsamic Vinegar
- Garlic, minced
- Dijon Mustard
- Fresh Rosemary, finely chopped
- Salt and Pepper
Preparation Steps for Grilled Lamb Chops
- Pound the Lamb Chops: Lightly pound the lamb chops between plastic wrap to slightly thin them out for even grilling.
- Marinate: Combine the grated garlic, white wine, olive oil, salt, hot pepper flakes, and fresh rosemary in a bowl. Pour the marinade over the lamb chops and let them marinate for a while in the fridge.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to a high temperature. Grill the lamb chops until they are nicely charred on the outside but still tender and juicy inside. The exact grilling time will depend on the thickness of the chops and your preferred doneness.
Preparation Steps for Balsamic Lemon Dijon Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and ensure they are well coated with the marinade. Let them marinate for a few hours in the fridge for the best flavor.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Grill the chicken thighs until they are fully cooked through, with a nice char on the outside and a tender, juicy interior. Again, the cooking time will vary based on the size of the chicken thighs and grill temperature.
Conclusion
These grilled lamb chops and chicken thighs are more than just meals; they are a celebration of flavors that can elevate your Easter or any outdoor gathering. The lamb chops, with their traditional marinade of white wine and rosemary, pay homage to classic Easter flavors, while the balsamic lemon Dijon chicken offers a tangy and herbaceous alternative for those who might prefer poultry. Both dishes are straightforward to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of family and friends. So fire up the grill and get ready to impress your guests with these delectable grilled delights.
