Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that brings the sophistication of a high-end steakhouse right to your dining room table? I’m so excited to share this recipe with you. It’s one of my absolute favorites for weeknight dinners or special occasions when I want something impressive but also manageable. We’re talking about Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher – an easy dinner that delivers big on flavor and presentation. Think juicy, perfectly cooked chicken breasts topped with a decadent garlic-butter sauce and crisp prosciutto. Trust me; this is a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds! So, let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to this restaurant-worthy masterpiece!
What Makes Chicken Christopher So Special?
Okay, so what is it about this dish that makes it so darn delicious? It’s all about the combination of textures and flavors. You have the tender, succulent chicken, the rich, garlicky butter sauce that just melts in your mouth, and the salty, crispy prosciutto that adds a delightful crunch. It’s a symphony of tastes that work together in perfect harmony. Plus, it looks absolutely gorgeous on the plate, making it perfect for entertaining.
And the best part? Despite its fancy restaurant origins, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make at home. We’re going to break it down into simple, manageable steps so that even beginner cooks can achieve amazing results. So, put on your apron, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher: An Easy Dinner Recipe
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this incredible dish in your own kitchen:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices prosciutto
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Equipment:
- Large skillet (preferably cast iron)
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Small saucepan
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps it cook evenly and stay tender. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Prosciutto: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the prosciutto slices until they are crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes per side. Remove the prosciutto from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess grease. Keep the skillet with the rendered prosciutto fat; this will add amazing flavor to the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet with the prosciutto fat. Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Garlic-Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine and chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet – those are packed with flavor! Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until it has reduced slightly.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Assemble the Dish: Place the cooked chicken breasts on a serving plate. Spoon the garlic-butter sauce generously over the chicken. Top each chicken breast with a slice of crispy prosciutto. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best served hot and fresh. Enjoy!
Success Tips for the Perfect Chicken Christopher
Want to make sure your Chicken Christopher turns out absolutely perfect? Here are a few of my top tips:
- Pound the Chicken Evenly: This is crucial for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin and don’t be afraid to really get in there! Aim for a consistent thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove it from the skillet as soon as it reaches that temperature.
- Crisp the Prosciutto Properly: Crispy prosciutto is a key element of this dish. Cook it until it’s golden brown and slightly curled. This will give it the perfect texture and flavor.
- Don’t Burn the Garlic: Burnt garlic is bitter and unpleasant. Keep a close eye on the garlic while it’s cooking and make sure it doesn’t brown too much. You want it to be fragrant, not burnt.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Seasoning is everything! Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Remember that the prosciutto is already salty, so you may not need to add too much salt.
Variations and Adaptations
One of the great things about this recipe is that it’s easy to customize to your own tastes and preferences. Here are a few variations and adaptations you might want to try:
- Use Different Herbs: If you’re not a fan of parsley, you can substitute it with other fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
- Add Some Heat: If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic-butter sauce.
- Make it Creamy: For a richer, creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese at the end.
- Serve with Different Sides: Chicken Christopher pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free pasta or rice if you want a complete gluten-free meal.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made this amazing Chicken Christopher, let’s talk about how to serve it! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Classic Presentation: Serve the chicken breasts on a plate with a generous spoonful of the garlic-butter sauce and a slice of crispy prosciutto on top. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprig of fresh parsley.
- With Pasta: Toss the cooked chicken and sauce with your favorite pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve the chicken alongside roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the rich and flavorful chicken.
- As a Sandwich: Slice the chicken and serve it on a crusty roll with some lettuce and tomato for a delicious lunch or light dinner.
Make it a Complete Meal
To create a well-rounded and satisfying meal, consider pairing your Chicken Christopher with complementary side dishes. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans offer a healthy and flavorful vegetable option. If you’re looking for something more substantial, creamy mashed potatoes or a cheesy risotto would be excellent choices. For a lighter meal, try serving the Chicken Christopher with a side of quinoa or couscous. These grains are packed with nutrients and provide a good source of fiber. You could also create a Mediterranean-inspired platter with hummus, pita bread, and a variety of fresh vegetables. Remember, the key to a successful meal is balance. Choose side dishes that complement the flavors of the Chicken Christopher and provide a variety of textures and nutrients.
Other Chicken Dinner Ideas
If you’re looking for more delicious and easy chicken dinner ideas, you’ve come to the right place! I have a whole collection of chicken recipes that are perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Let’s explore a few of my favorites:
For a quick and flavorful meal, you can’t go wrong with BANG BANG CHICKEN BOWLS. These bowls are packed with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy, spicy sauce that will leave you wanting more.
If you’re in the mood for something comforting and indulgent, try CHICKEN BACON PASTA. This dish is loaded with chicken, bacon, and a creamy sauce that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
For a fun and flavorful twist on classic mac and cheese, check out BBQ CHICKEN MAC. This dish combines tender chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and creamy mac and cheese for a truly unforgettable meal.
If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful chicken dish, give KOHLRABI CHICKEN a try. This recipe features tender chicken and crunchy kohlrabi in a flavorful sauce that’s sure to impress.
For a healthy and vibrant meal, you’ll love STREET CORN CHICKEN RICE BOWL. This bowl is packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice, all topped with a zesty cilantro-lime dressing.
And of course, I can’t forget to mention Marry Me Chicken. This dish is so creamy and delicious, it’s guaranteed to win hearts (and stomachs!).
I hope you enjoy exploring these chicken dinner ideas! With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that you and your family will love.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftover Chicken Christopher, you can easily store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat and cook until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. For best results, I recommend storing the chicken and sauce separately. This will prevent the chicken from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to reheat, simply combine the chicken and sauce in a skillet or microwave and heat until warmed through. You can also freeze Chicken Christopher for longer storage. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. The sauce can be frozen separately in a freezer-safe container. The frozen chicken can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the chicken and sauce in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as directed above.
Conclusion
And there you have it – a step-by-step guide to making Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher right in your own kitchen! I know that recreating restaurant dishes at home can seem intimidating, but I promise you, this recipe is totally doable. With a little bit of effort and these simple instructions, you’ll be serving up a show-stopping meal that everyone will rave about. The key is to take your time, follow the steps carefully, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and variations. Most importantly, have fun in the kitchen and enjoy the process of creating something delicious! I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!
What makes Chicken Christopher so special?
Chicken Christopher is special because of its combination of textures and flavors: tender chicken, rich garlic-butter sauce, and salty, crispy prosciutto. It’s a symphony of tastes that work together in perfect harmony and looks gorgeous on the plate.
What are some tips for making the perfect Chicken Christopher?
To make the perfect Chicken Christopher, pound the chicken evenly, avoid overcooking the chicken (aim for 165°F internal temperature), crisp the prosciutto properly, don’t burn the garlic, and taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
What are some variations or adaptations I can make to the Chicken Christopher recipe?
You can try using different herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano), adding red pepper flakes for heat, stirring in heavy cream or mascarpone for a creamier sauce, serving with different sides, or ensuring the chicken broth is gluten-free for a gluten-free option.
How should I store and reheat leftover Chicken Christopher?
Store leftover Chicken Christopher in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, being careful not to overcook. For best results, store the chicken and sauce separately. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Prosciutto: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the prosciutto slices until they are crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes per side. Remove the prosciutto from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess grease. Keep the skillet with the rendered prosciutto fat; this will add amazing flavor to the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet with the prosciutto fat. Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Garlic-Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine and chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet – those are packed with flavor! Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until it has reduced slightly.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Assemble the Dish: Place the cooked chicken breasts on a serving plate. Spoon the garlic-butter sauce generously over the chicken. Top each chicken breast with a slice of crispy prosciutto. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best served hot and fresh. Enjoy!