Introduction
Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher is a luxurious and flavorful dish that has become a signature item on the menu of this renowned steakhouse. Known for its perfectly cooked chicken breasts, this dish is smothered in a rich and creamy sauce made with a combination of fresh ingredients like mushrooms, wine, and seasonings. It’s a hearty, comforting meal with a refined touch that makes it perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality dinner at home. Whether served with a side of vegetables, pasta, or potatoes, Chicken Christopher is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
The History of Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher
Morton’s Steakhouse, founded in 1978, has built a reputation for serving exceptional cuts of steak, seafood, and a selection of expertly crafted dishes. Chicken Christopher, one of their most popular non-steak items, quickly became a fan favorite after its debut on the menu. Its creamy sauce and succulent chicken have made it a beloved dish for both regular customers and newcomers to the restaurant. The dish exemplifies the classic Morton’s philosophy of combining high-quality ingredients with rich flavors, making it stand out in a menu primarily known for its steaks. Today, Chicken Christopher is not only a staple at Morton’s Steakhouse locations but has inspired home cooks to replicate this indulgent dish in their own kitchens.
Ingredients Breakdown
Chicken Christopher is built upon simple yet high-quality ingredients that create a flavor-packed dish. The chicken breast is the star, tender and juicy, offering a neutral base to carry the richness of the sauce. The sauce itself is made from butter, heavy cream, and a splash of white wine, creating a luxurious, velvety texture. Mushrooms add an earthy depth, and the combination of garlic, shallots, and herbs enhances the sauce’s complexity. A finishing touch of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley brightens the dish and gives it a well-rounded flavor. This dish is often served with roasted vegetables or potatoes to complement its creamy richness.
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add a little more butter and sauté the shallots and garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they soften and release their moisture.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. Allow the wine to reduce by half.
- Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let the sauce thicken for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish the Sauce: Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy texture. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Let it cook together for a minute or two so the flavors meld.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the Chicken Christopher with your favorite side dish, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for the Perfect Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your chicken and mushrooms will directly impact the flavor of the dish, so use the freshest ingredients available.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy. Overcooking will result in dry chicken, which detracts from the dish’s richness.
- Let the Sauce Simmer Gently: Allow the sauce to simmer slowly to thicken and develop flavor. Don’t rush it by turning up the heat too high, as this can cause the cream to separate.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to experiment with the sauce by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or tarragon to bring more complexity to the dish. A squeeze of lemon juice can also add a refreshing brightness.
- Perfect the Searing: Sear the chicken breasts until golden and crisp on the outside for added texture. A good sear helps lock in the chicken’s juices and flavor.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian alternative, swap the chicken for large portobello mushrooms or a plant-based protein like tofu. These will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Add More Veggies: You can add vegetables such as spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers to the sauce for added color and nutrition.
- Use Different Meat: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can try making this dish with turkey breasts, pork chops, or even veal for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Asiago, Gruyere, or Fontina for a unique take on the dish’s flavor.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Chicken Christopher is a rich and indulgent dish, primarily due to its buttery, creamy sauce. While chicken itself is a lean source of protein, the sauce adds a significant amount of calories, fat, and cholesterol, particularly from the butter and heavy cream. To make this dish a bit lighter, consider substituting half-and-half or a lower-fat cream option, and using less butter. Pairing the dish with a lighter side, such as steamed vegetables or a simple salad, can balance out the richness. As with any indulgent meal, it’s best to enjoy Chicken Christopher in moderation.
FAQ
- Can I make Chicken Christopher ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the chicken and reheat the sauce. - Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, though they may cook faster than bone-in breasts, so keep an eye on the cooking time. - Can I freeze Chicken Christopher?
While you can freeze the sauce, it’s best to freeze the chicken separately. Reheat the sauce slowly when ready to serve. Freezing the entire dish may affect the texture of the sauce. - What sides go well with Chicken Christopher?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the seasonings and any added ingredients are gluten-free.
Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup white wine optional
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a pan and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan.
- In the same pan, sauté the chopped onions for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. Then, add the chicken broth and allow it to simmer.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens. If the sauce is too thin, you can mix a little flour with water and add it to the sauce to thicken it.
- Next, return the chicken to the pan. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and cook together for another 5 minutes. If desired, sprinkle cheese over the chicken and cook until melted.
- Before serving, I like to add fresh parsley and basil. For a side, I roasted some vegetables and served a little of the sauce alongside them. Enjoy!
Notes
Fresh parsley and basil can enhance the flavor of the dish, but they’re optional.
For those who enjoy some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Using a non-stick pan is recommended to prevent the chicken from sticking, so be sure to use one for this recipe.
If you choose to use white wine, make sure it’s a good quality wine that you would drink, as it will definitely improve the flavor of the sauce.