Chicken Saltimbocca is a delightful Italian dish that features tender chicken breasts seasoned with fresh sage and prosciutto, all simmered together in a savory white wine sauce. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also brings a touch of Italian elegance to your dinner table, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. With its rich flavors and succulent textures, Chicken Saltimbocca is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this Chicken Saltimbocca recipe for its incredible blend of flavors and the ease with which it comes together. The aromatic sage and savory prosciutto elevate the simple chicken to something extraordinary, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. This dish fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle, as it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a great source of protein and can be paired with various sides to meet your dietary preferences.
Tips and Tricks
- Use thin chicken breasts: To ensure quick cooking and maximum tenderness, opt for thinly sliced chicken breasts or pound them to an even thickness.
- Fresh ingredients are key: For the best flavor, use fresh sage leaves and high-quality prosciutto.
- Don’t rush the sauce: Allow the white wine to reduce properly before adding the chicken back to the pan. This will deepen the sauce’s flavor.
- Serve immediately: Chicken Saltimbocca tastes best fresh off the stove, so have your sides ready to go.
Make Ahead Tips
For meal preppers, Chicken Saltimbocca can be partially prepared ahead of time. You can season and wrap the chicken breasts with prosciutto and sage, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The white wine sauce can also be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to three days. When ready to cook, just combine the chicken with the sauce and proceed with the recipe.
Recipe Variations
- Herb variations: Swap sage for other herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrition.
- Cooking methods: Instead of pan-frying, try baking the chicken in the oven for a healthier alternative. You can still use the same sauce to keep the flavor intact.
How to Serve
Serve Chicken Saltimbocca hot from the skillet, garnished with fresh sage leaves for an elegant touch. Accompany with a side of creamy polenta, sautéed green beans, or a simple arugula salad to balance the richness of the dish. Presentation is key, so consider plating the chicken on a beautiful dish with the sauce drizzled artistically around.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this Chicken Saltimbocca with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the dish’s flavors beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving sparkling water with a lemon twist. For dessert, a light panna cotta or a fruit sorbet would round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Leftover Chicken Saltimbocca can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Equipment Needed
- A large skillet or frying pan is essential for cooking the chicken and sauce.
- A meat mallet or rolling pin can be helpful for pounding the chicken to an even thickness.
- Tongs will aid in flipping the chicken without tearing the prosciutto.
Dietary Adaptations
To make Chicken Saltimbocca dairy-free, simply omit any butter used in the sauce. For a gluten-free version, ensure that the prosciutto is gluten-free and serve with gluten-free sides. To create a vegetarian version, use eggplant or portobello mushrooms as the base instead of chicken, and substitute the prosciutto with a plant-based alternative.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, fresh vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can be added for a pop of color and flavor. In the colder months, consider using butternut squash or root vegetables as a side to create a heartier meal.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- What can I substitute for prosciutto? You can use pancetta, turkey bacon, or a vegetarian alternative if needed.
- How long can I marinate the chicken? Marinating for 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to infuse flavor without making the chicken too salty.
Chicken Saltimbocca
Chicken Saltimbocca is a delightful Italian dish that features tender chicken breasts seasoned with fresh sage and prosciutto, all simmered together in a savory white wine sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of prosciutto
- 8 fresh sage leaves
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Begin by placing each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Lay 2 slices of prosciutto on each chicken breast and top with 2 sage leaves, pressing gently to adhere.
- Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken, prosciutto side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Carefully flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until reduced by half.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and additional sage if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 514Total Fat: 23gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 17gCholesterol: 142mgSodium: 1693mgCarbohydrates: 14gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 55g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Saltimbocca is a quintessential Italian dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. With its simple yet elegant preparation, it’s a fantastic option for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Embrace the flavors of Italy and indulge in this delightful dish that celebrates the beauty of fresh ingredients and culinary tradition!
