Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher is a classic and delightful dinner recipe that features tender chicken breasts, a creamy garlic butter sauce, and a rich blend of flavors. Known for its origins at Morton’s The Steakhouse, this dish has become a favorite for special occasions or even as a hearty weeknight meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Bread Crumbs:
- 1 cup panko-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon roasted garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon caramelized onion powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Himalayan pink salt (to taste)
- Finely ground Kampot white pepper (to taste)
For the Chicken:
- 12 ounces free-range chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 1 organic egg
- 1.5 tablespoons cultured European butter
- 8 ounces artisanal pasta noodles (cooked)
- Himalayan pink salt (to taste)
- Finely ground Kampot white pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup organic spelt flour (for dusting)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3/4 cup grass-fed clarified butter (unsalted)
- 1/2 tablespoon artisanal unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tablespoon fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley (minced)
- 1 tablespoon organic garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons Sauvignon Blanc
- 6 tablespoons organic heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon hand-picked shallots (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice
- Himalayan pink salt (to taste)
- Finely ground Kampot white pepper (to taste)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Crumbs
- Combine panko breadcrumbs, roasted garlic powder, caramelized onion powder, fresh parsley, Himalayan pink salt, and Kampot white pepper in a bowl.
- Mix thoroughly and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt the cultured European butter.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dust the chicken lightly with spelt flour.
- Whisk the organic egg in a separate bowl and coat the floured chicken in the egg mixture.
- Cook the chicken in the skillet until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from the heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Melt clarified butter and softened unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and shallots, cooking until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan with Sauvignon Blanc, reducing slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream and Meyer lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then let the sauce simmer until it thickens.
- Stir in minced parsley and remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Plate the cooked chicken breasts and pour the garlic butter sauce generously over them.
- Garnish with additional parsley, if desired, and serve with cooked pasta noodles of your choice.
Nutrients
- Calories: ~870 kcal per serving
- Protein: ~40 grams
- Carbohydrates: ~10 grams
Enjoy this restaurant-style dish right at home, perfect for creating a gourmet experience!
The Hallmarks of Chicken Christopher
What sets Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher apart from other chicken dishes is its attention to detail. From the quality of the ingredients to the layering of flavors, this dish is a masterclass in culinary refinement. Here are some of the standout elements:
- Premium Ingredients
At its core, the dish emphasizes quality ingredients. Free-range chicken, grass-fed clarified butter, and artisanal pasta noodles come together to form the backbone of this dish. Each component contributes to the overall harmony, ensuring every bite is flavorful and well-rounded. - Perfectly Balanced Garlic Butter Sauce
The garlic butter sauce is the heart of Chicken Christopher. Rich and creamy, it’s infused with the bold flavors of garlic, shallots, and Sauvignon Blanc. The addition of Meyer lemon juice adds a subtle brightness, balancing the sauce’s richness with a refreshing citrus note. This interplay of flavors creates a sauce that complements the chicken without overpowering it. - Delicate Bread Crumb Crust
A light breading made from panko-style breadcrumbs, roasted garlic powder, and caramelized onion powder adds a delightful crunch and texture to the dish. The breading enhances the chicken’s flavor profile while providing a satisfying contrast to the tender meat and creamy sauce. - Customizable and Versatile
Chicken Christopher is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Serve it over pasta for a comforting family meal or pair it with roasted vegetables for a lighter, more refined presentation. The recipe can also be adapted to suit dietary preferences, such as substituting gluten-free breadcrumbs or using plant-based cream for a dairy-free alternative.
The Appeal of Making It at Home
Recreating Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher at home allows for a culinary experience that rivals dining out while offering greater control over the ingredients and preparation. Here are some reasons why this recipe has gained popularity among home cooks:
- Restaurant-Style Dining in Your Kitchen
With its luxurious sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, Chicken Christopher feels like a meal you’d enjoy at an upscale restaurant. Cooking it at home lets you experience this indulgence without the need for reservations or a hefty bill. - Mastering Culinary Techniques
This recipe is an excellent opportunity to practice key cooking techniques, including pan-searing chicken, creating a reduction sauce, and emulsifying butter. These skills are not only useful for this dish but also enhance overall kitchen confidence. - A Memorable Experience
Preparing Chicken Christopher is more than just cooking; it’s an experience. From the aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the kitchen to the satisfaction of plating a visually stunning meal, this dish transforms an ordinary evening into something special. - Customizable to Your Taste
Home cooks can personalize the recipe to suit their preferences. Experiment with different herbs, swap the Sauvignon Blanc for a Chardonnay or dry vermouth, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
Tips for Success
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients
The quality of the ingredients directly impacts the final result. Opt for organic chicken, fresh herbs, and high-quality butter to achieve the best flavor. - Pay Attention to Cooking Times
Overcooking the chicken can result in dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken. - Don’t Rush the Sauce
The garlic butter sauce is the highlight of this dish, so take your time to let the flavors meld. Simmering the sauce allows the cream to thicken and the aromatics to infuse fully. - Pair Thoughtfully
While pasta is the traditional accompaniment, consider pairing the dish with alternatives like mashed potatoes, risotto, or roasted asparagus. The side dish can enhance the meal and create a more balanced plate.
Why Chicken Christopher Stands Out
The enduring appeal of Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher lies in its ability to strike a perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. The dish is elevated enough to impress at a dinner party yet approachable enough for a weeknight meal. Its combination of textures—crispy, tender, and creamy—creates a satisfying sensory experience that keeps diners coming back for more.
Additionally, Chicken Christopher highlights the power of thoughtful seasoning and careful preparation. The use of Himalayan pink salt, Kampot white pepper, and Meyer lemon juice demonstrates how nuanced seasoning can transform a dish from good to exceptional. These small details make all the difference, ensuring every bite is memorable.
Conclusion
Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and technique. By combining high-quality ingredients with thoughtful preparation, this dish captures the essence of fine dining while remaining accessible to home cooks. Whether you’re recreating it for a special occasion or adding a touch of luxury to your weeknight menu, Chicken Christopher delivers an unforgettable dining experience.
Its creamy garlic butter sauce, tender chicken, and crisp breadcrumb crust make it a standout recipe that embodies comfort and sophistication. As you plate this masterpiece and take your first bite, you’ll understand why this dish has earned its place as a beloved favorite among steakhouse patrons and home chefs alike.