Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken is an iconic dish inspired by the renowned Morton’s Steakhouse, known for its top-quality steaks and delicious entrees. This recipe brings the restaurant experience right to your home, delivering tender, flavorful chicken with a rich, savory sauce that will impress any guest. The chicken is perfectly seared and bathed in a buttery, herb-infused sauce that highlights the natural flavors of the chicken while adding an extra layer of indulgence.

Whether you’re recreating a memorable dining experience or treating yourself to a special meal, Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken is a must-try dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With a perfect balance of herbs, butter, and seasoning, this recipe takes ordinary chicken to an extraordinary level. This guide will walk you through each step, provide tips for success, and offer suggestions for variations and side dishes that will elevate your meal even further.

Why You’ll Love Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken

• Juicy, Tender Chicken: The chicken breasts are perfectly cooked, retaining their juiciness and tenderness while being seared to golden perfection on the outside.
• Rich, Buttery Sauce: The sauce is a buttery, herb-infused creation that transforms the chicken into a decadent, flavorful dish. It’s creamy, rich, and delicious, without being overwhelming.
• Restaurant-Quality Dish: With the right ingredients and techniques, you can replicate the experience of dining at Morton’s Steakhouse, right in your own kitchen.
• Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavors: The dish relies on a few basic ingredients—chicken, butter, and fresh herbs—but together they create a mouthwatering result that’s full of flavor.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: This recipe is ideal for romantic dinners, holiday gatherings, or impressing guests at a dinner party, making it a versatile dish that can be served for any occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 5-7g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2-3g

Ingredients

For Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a bit of smokiness)

Special Equipment

While making Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken doesn’t require any specialized equipment, there are a few kitchen tools that will help ensure the dish turns out perfectly:

1. Large Skillet or Pan: A large, heavy-duty skillet or sauté pan is ideal for searing the chicken and making the sauce. A non-stick pan works best for easy cleanup.
2. Tongs: Tongs help flip the chicken breasts while cooking without piercing them, keeping the juices inside.
3. Ladle or Spoon: A ladle or large spoon is helpful when serving the chicken, allowing you to drizzle sauce over the top without spilling.
4. Measuring Spoons: For precision when adding ingredients like lemon juice and seasonings, measuring spoons will ensure your dish is perfectly balanced.
5. Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp knife is needed to chop the garlic, shallot, and parsley, while the cutting board provides a stable surface for preparation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.

2. Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Sear each side for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm while preparing the sauce.

3. Make the Herb-Infused Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Sauté the garlic and shallot for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Next, add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. These bits are full of flavor and will enhance the sauce. Let the broth simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

After the broth has reduced, stir in the heavy cream and fresh thyme leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

4. Add the Lemon Juice and Remaining Butter

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh lemon juice. The acidity from the lemon will add a bright contrast to the richness of the cream and butter. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the sauce, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes silky smooth.

5. Return the Chicken to the Skillet

Carefully return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top of each piece. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s heated through and well-coated with the sauce. This step allows the chicken to absorb some of the delicious flavors from the sauce.

6. Serve

Once the chicken is coated in the creamy, buttery sauce, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the chicken with a generous amount of sauce poured over the top. You can serve it with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooking will make it dry and tough. Using a meat thermometer ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley will provide a more vibrant flavor than dried herbs, so opt for fresh if possible. However, if you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme can be used as a substitute.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer to reduce and thicken to your desired consistency.
• Add a Touch of Spice: For those who like a little heat, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Pairing: The richness of this dish pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides like steamed asparagus, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad to balance the flavors.

Variations of Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce for a cheesy, savory twist on the classic Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken. This variation adds even more richness and depth to the sauce.
• Mushroom-Infused Chicken: For a hearty variation, sauté some sliced mushrooms along with the garlic and shallot before adding the chicken broth. The mushrooms will absorb the flavors of the sauce and add an earthy richness.
• Spicy Morton’s Chicken: If you like a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a small amount of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy tangy kick. This version brings a new dimension of flavor to the dish.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add extra lemon zest and a few sprigs of fresh rosemary for a fragrant, citrusy version of Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken that’s fresh and aromatic.

Storage and Shelf Life

While Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for later. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.

If you want to freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. The chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little more cream or broth to revive the sauce.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect side to soak up the delicious sauce from the chicken.
• Rice Pilaf: A light, flavorful rice pilaf with herbs makes a great accompaniment to this dish, complementing the rich chicken without overpowering it.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans will add a healthy and colorful contrast to the creamy chicken.
• Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash offers a similar texture and is a great way to enjoy the sauce without the extra carbs.

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Conclusion

Morton’s Steakhouse Chicken brings the high-quality flavors of a fine dining experience right to your home. With perfectly cooked chicken, a rich buttery sauce, and fresh herbs, this dish is sure to impress both your family and guests. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to an indulgent dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy the delicious flavors of Morton’s Steakhouse from the comfort of your kitchen.