The moment I first wrapped chicken in prosciutto, I was transported to a quaint Italian trattoria where aromatic herbs danced in the air. This Italian Chicken Saltimbocca is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary escape wrapped in savory goodness! In under 30 minutes, you can serve a dish that dazzles both the palate and the eyes, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
With tender chicken breasts enveloped in crisp prosciutto and an infusion of fragrant sage, every bite feels luxurious yet effortlessly easy to prepare. Whether you decide to stick to the classic or venture into variations like a cheesy twist or a vegetarian option, this recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience every time. Trust me, you’ll want to savor this dish as much as I do! Let’s dive into making this quick and elegant Italian classic that will elevate your home-cooked meals.
Why is Italian Chicken Saltimbocca so special?
Flavorful Layers: Each bite delivers a delightful mix of savory prosciutto and aromatic sage, creating a taste sensation that transports you straight to Italy.
Quick Preparation: With just under 30 minutes needed, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties.
Elegant Presentation: Impress your guests with a dish that looks fancy yet feels comforting, making it a standout choice for any occasion.
Versatile Options: From a cheesy twist to a vegetarian delight, you can easily customize this dish to suit different tastes, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy it.
Healthy Choice: With low-carb and gluten-free adaptations available, this recipe is both satisfying and kind to your waistline, inviting you to indulge without guilt.
Crowd-Pleasing: No one can resist the allure of this mouthwatering dish—it’s always a hit at gatherings!
Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish, providing a juicy and tender base you’ll love.
• Prosciutto – Adds a salty depth while wrapping the chicken to keep it moist.
• Fresh Sage Leaves – Brings vibrant aroma and flavor to perfectly complement the chicken.
For the Dredging
• All-Purpose Flour – Lightly coats the chicken for a delicious crust when seared.
• Olive Oil – Used for cooking, enhancing flavor while preventing sticking.
• Unsalted Butter – Boosts richness in the sauce for beautifully balanced flavor.
For the Sauce
• Chicken Broth – Forms the sauce base, adding moisture and depth; homemade is best!
• White Wine (Optional) – Infuses acidity and complexity; substitute with broth for non-alcoholic.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.
With these ingredients, you’re set to whip up your very own Italian Chicken Saltimbocca, offering an unforgettable taste of Italy right in your kitchen!
How to Make Italian Chicken Saltimbocca
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Prepare Chicken: Pound each chicken breast to ½ inch thickness between plastic wrap. This helps the chicken cook evenly, ensuring tenderness as it cooks to perfection.
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Season: Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. A little seasoning goes a long way, enhancing the chicken’s natural flavor beautifully.
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Wrap: Place two slices of prosciutto and one sage leaf atop each chicken breast. This configuration adds a burst of flavor, ensuring the chicken stays juicy and fragrant.
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Dredge: Lightly coat wrapped chicken in flour, shaking off excess. This step creates a lovely golden crust when you cook the chicken, adding a delightful texture.
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Heat Pan: In a non-stick skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear, which keeps those flavors locked in!
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Cook Chicken: Sear chicken, prosciutto side down, for 4-5 minutes until golden; flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until cooked through. The prosciutto should crisp beautifully, adding a crunch to each bite.
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Add Liquids: Remove chicken, add broth and wine (if using) to skillet, scraping browned bits from the bottom. These bits are flavor gold, enriching your sauce.
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Reduce Sauce: Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes to thicken. Watch as it transforms into a luscious glaze that beautifully coats your chicken.
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Serve: Return chicken to the pan, coating with sauce before plating. This final touch ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Optional: Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Italian Chicken Saltimbocca?
To create a delightful dining experience, consider side dishes that enhance the flavors and textures of this elegant Italian classic.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy, buttery texture complements the savory sauce, creating a comforting base for the flavorful chicken.
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Sautéed Spinach: This simple dish adds a fresh, vibrant touch to your meal, balancing the rich flavors of the saltimbocca beautifully.
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Fresh Arugula Salad: With peppery greens and a zesty vinaigrette, this salad provides a refreshing contrast that lifts the palate between bites.
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Roasted Asparagus: The crisp-tender stalks offer a delightful crunch. Drizzle with lemon for a bright note that echoes the dish’s aromatic sage.
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Risotto: Creamy risotto offers a luxurious touch, with flavors that blend seamlessly with the savory notes of the chicken.
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Italian Bread: Soft, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
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Pinot Grigio: A chilled glass of this wine complements the flavors of the chicken and enhances the dining experience, making it feel truly special.
Pairing these sides with your Italian Chicken Saltimbocca will create a meal that feels both comforting and sophisticated, turning every dinner into a celebration!
Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Variations
Feel free to explore delightful twists that will make this dish uniquely yours!
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Cheesy Twist: Add slices of mozzarella beneath the prosciutto for a melty surprise that adds richness and flavor.
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Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for eggplant slices, keeping the prosciutto and sage for that wonderful flavor infusion.
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Lemon Butter Sauce: For a zesty alternative, replace the chicken broth and wine with a bright lemon-infused butter sauce, enhancing the dish’s freshness.
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Add Veggies: Sneak in some vibrant spinach or sun-dried tomatoes inside the chicken to elevate flavors and add a pop of color to your plate.
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Grilled Option: Take it outdoors by grilling the chicken instead of pan-frying. This brings a delightful smoky flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
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Herb Fusion: Experiment by using fresh rosemary or thyme instead of sage for a different aromatic profile that gives a new twist to the traditional recipe.
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Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the final dish to introduce a sweet-tangy contrast that beautifully balances the savory elements.
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Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéed sauce can turn up the heat and add an exciting flavor dimension to your Italian Chicken Saltimbocca.
Make Ahead Options
These Italian Chicken Saltimbocca are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken by pounding and seasoning it up to 24 hours in advance, wrapping it in prosciutto and sage, and storing it in the refrigerator. To ensure the best quality, keep the wrapped chicken covered tightly to prevent drying out. You can also make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just reheat before finishing the dish. When ready to serve, simply sear the chicken and then add the sauce back to the pan. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious flavors with minimal effort, making dinner time a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Italian Chicken Saltimbocca
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken moist while allowing the flavors to meld wonderfully.
Freezer: For longer storage, tightly wrap the cooked chicken in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, microwave with a splash of broth to keep the chicken juicy.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and prosciutto wraps in advance, then refrigerate them, making it easy to cook fresh Italian Chicken Saltimbocca on busy nights!
Expert Tips for Italian Chicken Saltimbocca
• Pound Evenly: Use a meat mallet to pound chicken to ½ inch uniformly. This helps in cooking evenly while preventing dryness.
• Watch the Heat: Keep a close eye on the pan temperature to achieve a perfect golden crust without burning the prosciutto.
• Check Temperature: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer for safety and ideal texture.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook chicken in batches if needed. Overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming instead of searing, affecting your Italian Chicken Saltimbocca’s crispiness.
• Sauce Reduction: Simmer the sauce long enough to enhance its flavors, making sure it’s thick enough to beautifully coat the chicken.
Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for chicken breasts that are plump and slightly moist with no dark spots or unpleasant odor. Fresh meat should feel firm and have a pinkish hue. If possible, opt for organic or hormone-free chicken for the best flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very easy! Store any leftover Italian Chicken Saltimbocca in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness, and feel free to drizzle a bit of chicken broth over it before storing to keep it moist.
Can I freeze Italian Chicken Saltimbocca?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double-wrapping prevents freezer burn and keeps it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What if the prosciutto isn’t crisping up as I expected?
If you’re finding the prosciutto isn’t crisping up, check that your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if needed. Remember to pat the prosciutto-wrapped chicken dry with a paper towel before dredging to ensure proper browning.
Can I modify this recipe for gluten-free or dietary preferences?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe! For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using eggplant slices instead of chicken but maintain the prosciutto and sage for flavor. Both alternatives will keep the essence of the dish while allowing you to cater to various diets.
How should I reheat leftover Italian Chicken Saltimbocca to maintain its texture?
To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist and juicy. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap steam, ensuring even heating throughout. This method will help preserve the delicious texture of the prosciutto, making it almost as good as fresh!
Italian Chicken Saltimbocca: A Quick, Elegant Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pound each chicken breast to ½ inch thickness between plastic wrap.
- Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place two slices of prosciutto and one sage leaf atop each chicken breast.
- Lightly coat wrapped chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
- In a non-stick skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken, prosciutto side down, for 4-5 minutes until golden; flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
- Remove chicken, add broth and wine to skillet, scraping browned bits.
- Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
- Return chicken to the pan, coating with sauce before plating.