Samantha If you’ve ever had Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher, you know it’s a showstopper—a buttery, garlicky masterpiece with golden chicken cutlets draped in a silky white wine and lemon cream sauce. I still remember my first bite of it at the restaurant. It was rich, flavorful, and totally unforgettable. I knew right then I had to recreate this indulgent favorite in my own kitchen. My homemade version of Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher brings all that restaurant-quality flavor home, without the price tag or the need to change out of your sweats.
This copycat recipe is the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and zesty. It’s ideal for special date nights, holiday dinners, or even a cozy weeknight when you’re craving something decadent but still doable in under 40 minutes. With simple ingredients like chicken breasts, garlic, white wine, lemon juice, and cream, you’ll create a sauce that feels five-star with every forkful. Whether you’re looking for a low-effort high-reward dinner or impressing guests, this Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher recipe has your back.
Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher – Buttery Garlic Chicken Copycat for Dinner at Home
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour for dredging
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic finely minced
- ½ cup dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh chopped parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the ChickenPound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour.
- Step 2: Sear to Golden PerfectionHeat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Step 3: Build the Garlic-Wine SauceIn the same pan, lower heat and add garlic. Sauté until fragrant (30 seconds). Add wine and broth, scraping up the brown bits.
- Step 4: Add Cream and LemonStir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and butter. Simmer until thickened—about 5–7 minutes.
- Step 5: Return Chicken and SimmerAdd the chicken back in, coating with the sauce. Let it simmer 2–3 more minutes to soak in the flavor.
- Step 6: Garnish and ServeTop with parsley and serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or vegetables.
Notes
Secret Tips for the Perfect Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher
1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Chicken Breasts: For that signature Morton’s tenderness, choose plump, fresh chicken breasts and trim them evenly. This ensures juicy, restaurant-quality results in your copycat Chicken Christopher. 2. Butterfly for Even Cooking: Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create thin, even pieces. This not only shortens cooking time but also helps the buttery garlic sauce coat every bite perfectly. 3. Don’t Skimp on the Garlic Butter Sauce: The rich, velvety garlic butter is the heart of Morton’s Chicken Christopher. Use fresh garlic and real butter for that luxurious flavor that makes this dinner at home taste like a fine dining experience. 4. Sear for a Golden Crust: Start with a hot skillet and sear the chicken until golden brown before finishing in the oven. This adds a delicious texture contrast to the tender meat and locks in juices. 5. Deglaze for Depth of Flavor: After searing, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth. This picks up all those savory browned bits and enriches your garlic butter sauce. 6. Serve Immediately: This buttery garlic chicken is best enjoyed hot from the pan, when the sauce is silky and the chicken is perfectly tender—just like at Morton’s Steakhouse.Recipe Overview
- Course: Dinner, Main Dish
- Cuisine: American, Steakhouse-Inspired
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Main Ingredients: Chicken breasts, garlic, lemon, heavy cream, white wine
- Best For: Elegant dinners, celebrations, romantic meals, special occasions
Nutritional Snapshot
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 410mg |
Budget Breakdown
| Ingredient | Estimated Cost |
| Chicken breasts | $6.50 |
| Garlic | $0.50 |
| Heavy cream | $1.50 |
| Lemon | $0.75 |
| White wine | $2.00 |
| Flour + butter + oil | $1.25 |
| Fresh herbs (optional) | $0.75 |
| Total | $13.25 |
| Cost per Serving | $3.31 |
Behind the Recipe
I first discovered Morton’s Chicken Christopher on a trip to Chicago with my sister. We sat in a dimly lit booth, surrounded by steakhouse classics, and she begged me to try her chicken. One bite and I was hooked—the golden crust on the chicken, that velvety white wine cream sauce, the tang of lemon, and the garlic… oh, the garlic. It was love at first bite.
Ever since, I’ve been on a mission to make it mine. This version keeps the soul of the dish but makes it approachable for the home cook. I swapped in a few light tweaks to simplify the prep without sacrificing the depth of flavor. It’s now one of those recipes I break out for anniversaries, birthdays, or even just when I want a taste of something a little fancy without fuss. Every time I make it, I’m transported back to that first delicious memory—and I know it’ll do the same for you.
Why You’ll Love This Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher
An Elevated Chicken Recipe That Feels Special
Craving restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss or the price tag? This Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher delivers an upscale experience right from your stovetop. The seared, golden chicken paired with a silky garlic butter lemon cream sauce is everything you’d expect from a fine dining menu—yet it’s simple enough for any home cook. It’s the kind of dish that makes an average night feel like a celebration.
Creamy Garlic Lemon Sauce with Pantry Staples
The flavor starts with basics you probably already have—fresh garlic, lemon juice, dry white wine, butter, and cream. That blend creates a rich, zesty sauce that’s luxurious but still light on effort. The garlic-forward cream sauce clings to the chicken and balances richness with acidity in every forkful. If you love creamy chicken recipes with a tangy finish, this one’s a winner.
WebMD notes that pairing lean protein with healthy fats like olive oil or moderate dairy cream can boost satiety and satisfaction, especially in lower-carb meals.
High-Protein, Low-Carb Comfort Food
Each serving packs in over 40g of lean protein while staying low on carbs and sugars, making this an excellent option for anyone watching their macros. Whether you’re focused on high-protein dinners or need something keto-friendly, Chicken Christopher fits right in. It also works for diabetic-friendly meal planning when paired with veggies or cauliflower mash.
Perfect for Romantic Dinners or Cozy Nights In
This dish can impress your date just as easily as it can satisfy your craving for comfort food on a Tuesday night. It’s classy, creamy, and comforting all at once. The aroma of garlic and white wine simmering in the pan is pure culinary magic—you’ll feel like a chef in your own home.
Related Internal Link:
Want more buttery, garlic-packed flavor? Try my Cheese Steak Stuffed Peppers Recipe next—it’s bold, spicy, and just as comforting.
Perfect For
Romantic Dinners at Home
If you’re planning a cozy night in, Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher is your ticket to an impressive, elegant dinner without the need for reservations. The golden seared chicken and garlic butter wine cream sauce feel indulgent and thoughtful—like something you’d find on a special occasion menu. Light some candles, pour a glass of that dry white wine you used in the sauce, and let this dish work its magic.
Holidays and Celebrations
Looking for something besides the usual holiday ham or roast? This dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table with just enough flair to make it feel celebratory. Whether it’s Christmas dinner, an anniversary, or a milestone birthday, this creamy chicken entrée is a standout that doesn’t take all day to prepare. Add roasted asparagus and parmesan mashed potatoes for a showstopping steakhouse-inspired spread.
Low-Carb or Keto Meal Plans
Trying to cut carbs without cutting flavor? This protein-packed dinner fits beautifully into keto or low-carb lifestyles. With minimal carbohydrates and high-quality lean protein from chicken breast, it’s a nourishing choice that feels anything but restrictive. You can pair it with garlic-sautéed spinach, riced cauliflower, or grilled zucchini for a complete, nutrient-dense plate. According to Cleveland Clinic, incorporating healthy fats with lean protein supports better energy and longer-lasting fullness.
Family Dinners with a Twist
Forget bland baked chicken—your family will love this creamy, garlicky twist on their usual protein. It’s comforting enough for kids but elevated enough to make weeknight dinner feel special. Plus, the sauce doubles as a great dipper for warm bread, mashed potatoes, or even crispy green beans.
Hosting Friends
Want to serve up a crowd-pleaser that feels impressive but doesn’t require five burners and a sous chef? This recipe nails it. It’s simple to scale up, and you can make the sauce ahead of time, then finish it all in one pan. Serve it with a crusty baguette or cheesy polenta and watch your guests swoon.
Craving More Steakhouse-Style Meals?
Don’t miss my Best Ever Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs—it’s high-protein, bold, and built for flavor-packed weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Highlights
Chicken Breasts
Go for boneless and skinless for even cooking. Pound them thin for tenderness and quicker cook time.
Garlic
A whole four cloves give this dish its signature punch. Freshly minced makes all the difference.
White Wine
Dry varieties like Sauvignon Blanc create depth without sweetness. If avoiding alcohol, you can sub with extra broth.
Heavy Cream
Brings that silky richness Morton’s is known for.
Lemon Juice
Adds brightness to cut through the richness and lift the sauce.
How to Make Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour.
Step 2: Sear to Golden Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
Step 3: Build the Garlic-Wine Sauce
In the same pan, lower heat and add garlic. Sauté until fragrant (30 seconds). Add wine and broth, scraping up the brown bits.
Step 4: Add Cream and Lemon
Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and butter. Simmer until thickened—about 5–7 minutes.
Step 5: Return Chicken and Simmer
Add the chicken back in, coating with the sauce. Let it simmer 2–3 more minutes to soak in the flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with parsley and serve over mashed potatoes, pasta, or vegetables.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing. Cook in batches if needed.
- Use fresh garlic—pre-minced won’t deliver the same depth.
- Deglaze properly. Those brown bits are gold and bring flavor into the sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken is done at 165°F.
Make It Yours
Add Mushrooms or Spinach
Looking to layer in more umami or sneak in some greens? Add sautéed mushrooms like cremini or shiitake for a hearty, earthy flavor that complements the garlic and white wine sauce beautifully. A few handfuls of baby spinach wilted into the sauce toward the end also adds color, nutrition, and depth. These additions boost the fiber and nutrient profile while keeping this restaurant-style creamy garlic chicken as luxurious as ever.
Try Chicken Thighs
While chicken breasts keep things lean and high in protein, switching to boneless, skinless chicken thighs gives this dish an ultra-juicy, richer mouthfeel. Thighs are slightly higher in fat, which makes them more forgiving to cook and ultra-flavorful when seared golden brown. They’re also ideal for those following high-fat, low-carb meals as part of a keto plan. Healthline notes that chicken thighs are still an excellent source of protein while offering more iron and zinc than breasts.
Finish with Mozzarella
For those who love a cheesy finish, try melting shredded mozzarella over the chicken right before serving. You can even use fresh mozzarella slices to add a melty, creamy topping that makes this dish feel extra indulgent. That creamy mozzarella combined with the zesty lemon wine sauce is a flavor combination that never disappoints.
Serve with Whole Grains
Balance out the richness by serving over nutty, fiber-rich grains like quinoa, farro, or brown rice. These add texture and wholesome nutrition without stealing the spotlight from the main event. Even a slice of garlic sourdough or crusty bread makes a great base to soak up every drop of that buttery garlic cream sauce.
Hungry for Another Elegant Weeknight Dinner?
You’ve got to try my Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Bites—a light, crispy option that’s bold on flavor and done in under 30 minutes!
Storage & Reheat Tips
Store It
Let leftovers cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat It
Warm in a covered pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
Freeze It
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Make It a Meal
Pair With These ReadyPrep Favorites:
- Try This Next: Garlic Shrimp & Sausage Skillet
- Another Protein Favorite: Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole
- Don’t Miss: Air Fryer Ribeye Steak
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Morton’s Chicken Christopher made of?
This classic dish is made with thinly pounded chicken breasts that are lightly breaded and pan-seared until golden. The real magic comes from the rich, velvety garlic butter sauce infused with white wine, lemon juice, and heavy cream. The combination creates a restaurant-quality chicken entrée that’s bold, buttery, and slightly zesty.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer dark meat. They’re naturally juicier and a bit more forgiving if you happen to overcook them slightly. Just remember to increase the cooking time by about 5–7 minutes and ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If your sauce feels a little thin, let it simmer a few more minutes to reduce and concentrate. You can also whisk in a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with cold broth to help it thicken gently. And reducing sauces or using roux-based thickeners can enhance flavor while adjusting texture.
Can I make this low sodium?
Yes, and it’s easier than you might think. Choose low-sodium chicken broth and unsalted butter, and season sparingly. The other ingredients like garlic, wine, and lemon still deliver bold flavor. The Mayo Clinic recommends limiting daily sodium to under 2,300 mg for most adults.
What’s a good side dish for Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher?
Classic mashed potatoes are always a hit, but you can lighten things up with mashed cauliflower, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus. Anything that helps soak up that buttery lemon sauce is fair game!
Is this meal keto-friendly?
Definitely. With minimal carbs and high protein from the chicken, this recipe works great for those on a keto or low-carb plan. Just pair it with non-starchy veggies like spinach, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice to keep it balanced.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but know that the sauce will be noticeably thinner and less indulgent. Whole milk is your best bet, and a small knob of butter stirred in at the end can help boost richness.
Is white wine necessary?
While white wine gives the sauce that signature depth and restaurant-style tang, you can absolutely make this without alcohol. Just substitute with chicken broth and a teaspoon of white wine vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for acidity. The flavor will still be layered and delicious.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, and it’s great for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Just make sure to sear the chicken in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan. A larger skillet or even a Dutch oven will help maintain that golden sear on the chicken cutlets.
How do I make Morton’s Chicken Christopher gluten-free?
It’s simple to adapt—just use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken. Double-check that your broth and wine are gluten-free too. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I meal prep this for the week?
Yes! This dish reheats beautifully. Store the chicken and sauce separately to maintain texture, then combine and reheat gently in a skillet. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to bring the sauce back to life.
What type of wine works best for this sauce?
Choose a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay. Avoid anything sweet, as it can throw off the balance of the sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can experiment with unsweetened coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute and plant-based butter. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but the garlic, lemon, and wine will still shine.
How long does the sauce keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the garlic lemon cream sauce will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and stir well to re-emulsify before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Christopher recipe truly brings the steakhouse experience into your own kitchen. Every bite is packed with bold garlic, buttery richness, and zesty lemon cream that feels gourmet but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re cooking for someone special or just want to treat yourself to something extra, this chicken delivers all the wow with none of the stress.
I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and it still feels like magic every single time. And the best part? You’ll only need one pan, a few everyday ingredients, and less than an hour to make something that tastes like you spent all day cooking. So pour yourself a glass of that wine, grab a fork, and dig into the comfort of this restaurant-worthy favorite.
“Golden pan-seared chicken drenched in creamy garlic lemon sauce—it’s everything a steakhouse dinner should be, made easy for your kitchen.” – Sam
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Crispy golden chicken breasts simmered in a rich, garlicky white wine lemon cream sauce—this restaurant-style dinner is perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions at home.
