Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher

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If there’s one dish that immediately brings a wave of rich, savory comfort to the table, it’s Chicken Christopher. I remember the first time I tasted it at Morton’s Steakhouse—perfectly pan-seared chicken breasts with a crisp golden crust, served in a velvety garlic butter sauce with fresh herbs dancing on top. It was indulgent without being overwhelming, luxurious yet utterly comforting. Naturally, I had to recreate it at home, and I’m happy to say, this version nails that restaurant-quality experience.

This is more than just chicken in butter. It’s a masterclass in how a handful of quality ingredients—garlic, lemon, butter, and fresh parsley—can come together to create something absolutely unforgettable. The crisp coating contrasts beautifully with the juicy tenderness inside, while the lemon-garlic butter sauce ties everything together with a fragrant richness that feels both fresh and decadent.

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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Christopher

This recipe checks all the boxes for a weeknight treat or a weekend splurge. It’s quick enough for a busy schedule but refined enough for dinner guests. The buttery, garlicky pan sauce delivers so much flavor with minimal fuss, and it’s practically guaranteed to impress. Plus, it pairs well with a variety of sides, making it endlessly adaptable.

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What Cut of Chicken Should I Use for Chicken Christopher?

Chicken Christopher is traditionally made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are lightly pounded to an even thickness. This ensures quick, even cooking and allows the crust to develop that irresistible golden crunch. You could also use chicken cutlets to save time or even boneless thighs if you prefer a juicier, slightly richer bite. Just be sure to adjust cooking time based on thickness.

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Options for Substitutions

This recipe is versatile enough to welcome a few thoughtful swaps without losing its magic:

• Butter: If you want to lighten things up, you can use a mix of olive oil and butter, but keep some butter for that signature richness.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic paste or even roasted garlic can offer a different depth.
• Breadcrumbs: Traditional plain breadcrumbs work best, but panko can add extra crunch. For gluten-free needs, choose a certified GF option.
• Lemon juice: Fresh is best, but bottled will work in a pinch. You could also experiment with white wine for a slightly tangier, more elegant sauce.
• Parsley: Flat-leaf parsley is the classic choice, but fresh chives or even thyme can offer a different herbal note.

These substitutions give you some flexibility while still preserving the heart of what makes Chicken Christopher so good.

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Ingredients for This Chicken Christopher

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  These are the star of the show. When pounded thin, they cook quickly and stay juicy under that crisp coating.
• All-purpose flour
  A light dredge in flour helps the egg wash and breadcrumb coating stick properly and adds a golden crunch.
• Eggs
  Beaten eggs act as the glue that holds the crispy coating in place.
• Plain breadcrumbs
  These create the signature crispy crust. They absorb the buttery sauce beautifully without going soggy.
• Salt and black pepper
  Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the breadcrumb mix to bring out maximum flavor.
• Unsalted butter
  Butter is the soul of the sauce—rich, creamy, and luxurious. It also adds flavor to the pan as the chicken cooks.
• Garlic (minced)
  A generous amount of fresh garlic infuses the sauce with that bold, aromatic character Chicken Christopher is known for.
• Fresh lemon juice
  A bright contrast to the butter and garlic, lemon adds balance and freshness to the sauce.
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
  For garnish and a pop of color, plus a little herbal brightness that cuts through the richness.

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing each chicken breast horizontally to create cutlets, or gently pound them to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures quick and even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

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Step 2: Dredge and Coat

Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, dip in the egg, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs. Press lightly to make sure the coating sticks well.

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Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a generous amount of butter (about 2 tablespoons) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted and foamy, add the chicken. Sear for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Do this in batches if needed, and add more butter if the pan gets dry.

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Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it—you want all those flavorful bits), melt more butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir to combine, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.

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Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet briefly, spooning the sauce over each piece. Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle generously with chopped parsley. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

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How Long to Cook the Chicken Christopher

Cooking time is quick, thanks to the thinness of the chicken cutlets. Each piece typically takes about 3 to 4 minutes per side over medium-high heat to develop a golden crust and cook through. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The sauce comes together in under 5 minutes, making this a fast yet elegant dish.

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Tips for Perfect Chicken Christopher

• Pound evenly: Make sure your chicken pieces are an even thickness to avoid undercooked or dry spots.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches so each piece gets the crisp, golden sear it needs.
• Use fresh garlic and lemon: These ingredients make the sauce sing. Skip the jarred stuff if you can.
• Watch your heat: Medium-high is key. Too low and the crust goes soggy; too high and the breadcrumbs will burn before the chicken is done.
• Rest before serving: Let the chicken sit in the sauce for a minute off the heat—this helps all the flavors soak in without losing that crispy texture.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the flour step: The flour helps the egg adhere better, which in turn holds the breadcrumbs—skipping it can lead to a patchy crust.
• Using cold chicken: Let your chicken come to room temperature for even cooking. Cold meat can seize and cook unevenly.
• Overcooking the garlic: Garlic burns quickly and becomes bitter. Keep an eye on it and stir constantly once it hits the pan.
• Not seasoning the breadcrumbs: If your coating tastes bland, it’s usually because the breadcrumbs weren’t seasoned. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to them.
• Neglecting to deglaze: Don’t waste those browned bits in the skillet—they add tons of flavor to the sauce. A splash of lemon juice does the trick.

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What to Serve With Chicken Christopher?

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and savory, these complement the buttery sauce perfectly and soak it up beautifully.

Steamed Asparagus

The light crunch and subtle bitterness are a great contrast to the rich chicken.

Buttery Rice Pilaf

Soft, fluffy rice seasoned with herbs adds a comforting base to the meal.

Creamed Spinach

A steakhouse classic—rich and creamy, and it pairs so well with garlic butter.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their crisp, caramelized edges bring another layer of flavor and texture.

Crispy French Bread

Use it to mop up every drop of that irresistible sauce.

Simple Garden Salad

A light, fresh counterbalance to the richness of the dish.

Lemon-Parmesan Pasta

If you want to go all out, serve the chicken over pasta tossed with lemon, herbs, and a sprinkle of parmesan.

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Storage Instructions

Leftover Chicken Christopher stores well and keeps its flavor beautifully:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place a piece of parchment or paper towel underneath to absorb moisture and help maintain the crispy coating.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10–12 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave—it softens the crust and makes the chicken rubbery.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general breakdown per serving (assuming the recipe serves 4):

• Calories: ~480 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: ~520mg

These values may vary slightly based on ingredient brands and portion sizes, but it’s a solid estimate for most homemade versions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Christopher ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep and bread the chicken ahead, then refrigerate it for up to 8 hours before cooking. Just make the sauce fresh for best flavor.

Can I bake instead of pan-fry?

You can, but you’ll lose that restaurant-style crispiness. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written. But you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

What kind of pan is best to use?

A heavy skillet like cast iron or stainless steel is ideal—it holds heat well and helps develop that golden crust.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Definitely. Thighs will be juicier and more flavorful, but they may need slightly more time to cook through.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer! You want it to reach 165°F internally. The juices should run clear, and the chicken should feel firm to the touch.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of white wine in place of part of the lemon juice adds a delicious depth. Let it reduce slightly before finishing with butter.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just be sure to cook in batches so you don’t crowd the pan and lose that crisp texture.

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Conclusion

Chicken Christopher is one of those dishes that takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something truly memorable. From the crispy coating to the rich garlic butter sauce, every bite feels indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re recreating your favorite steakhouse meal or treating your family to something special, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Once you master it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—it’s that good.

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