Indulging in Chicken Saltimbocca is like taking a flavor-filled trip to Italy without leaving your kitchen. This dish bursts with juicy chicken, aromatic sage, and savory prosciutto, all harmoniously wrapped in a tantalizing embrace. As you slice through the tender meat, the delightful aroma wafts up and tempts your taste buds, making it impossible to resist.
Picture this: a cozy gathering with friends or family, laughter echoing around the table as they dive into this culinary masterpiece. I can still hear my grandmother’s cheerful voice as she taught me how to make Chicken Saltimbocca, her secret ingredient being an extra sprinkle of love. It’s perfect for dinner parties or simply treating yourself after a long day—you’re bound to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Saltimbocca recipe offers an effortless way to impress guests with minimal fuss.
- The combination of flavors creates a delightful dining experience that balances savory and aromatic notes beautifully.
- The vibrant presentation is sure to catch the eye at any mealtime.
- It’s versatile enough to serve over pasta or paired with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients for Chicken Saltimbocca
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts depending on how many servings you need; tender and juicy is key!
- Fresh Sage Leaves: Look for bright green leaves; they bring a fragrant earthiness that defines this dish.
- Prosciutto: Thinly sliced; this Italian delight adds saltiness and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil for cooking; it enhances the overall richness of the dish.
- Dry White Wine: A splash of white wine adds acidity and complexity; opt for something you’d enjoy drinking.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is best; it keeps the dish flavorful without overwhelming it with salt.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Saltimbocca
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and giving them a little pep talk—no one likes being left out! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large skillet and heat some olive oil over medium heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound them with a meat mallet until they’re about half an inch thick—think of it as giving your chicken some much-needed spa treatment!
Step 3: Season and Layer
Sprinkle both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper. Lay down fresh sage leaves on top of each piece, followed by slices of prosciutto—like wrapping a gift but much tastier!
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Carefully transfer the prepared chicken into your hot skillet skin side down (yes, those prosciutto-wrapped beauties deserve some time on stage!). Cook for about four minutes until golden brown before flipping them over.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
Once both sides are cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Pour in white wine while scraping up all those delicious brown bits clinging to the bottom—this is where flavor magic happens!
Step 6: Final Touches
Add chicken broth to the pan along with any leftover sage leaves. Bring everything to a simmer before returning your chicken back into the pan. Let everything bubble together for another five minutes until it’s cooked through and luxurious!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Saltimbocca, which is sure to transport you straight to an Italian trattoria!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken saltimbocca recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create mouthwatering chicken saltimbocca, start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet. While it cooks, prepare your sauce and side dishes for seamless timing and delicious results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap prosciutto with cooked bacon, or add spinach for an extra veggie kick. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil to give your dish a unique twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken saltimbocca in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pound the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
- Use fresh herbs for better flavor; dried ones might dull your dish.
- Let the dish rest before slicing to keep juices intact.
Sometimes I think my family loves chicken saltimbocca more than they love me, especially when they ask for it every week! The smiles at the dinner table make all the effort worthwhile.
FAQs :
What is Chicken Saltimbocca?
Chicken Saltimbocca is a classic Italian dish that features chicken breasts topped with prosciutto and fresh sage leaves. The name “Saltimbocca” translates to “jump in the mouth,” highlighting the dish’s delicious flavor profile. Typically, the chicken is sautéed until golden brown and then simmered in a white wine sauce, which adds depth to its savory taste. This dish is often served with side dishes like pasta or vegetables, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.
How do you make Chicken Saltimbocca?
To make Chicken Saltimbocca, start by flattening chicken breasts and seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper. Place a slice of prosciutto and a sage leaf on each piece of chicken. Secure them with toothpicks or kitchen twine. Sauté the chicken in olive oil until browned, then add white wine to deglaze the pan. Let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
What can I serve with Chicken Saltimbocca?
Chicken Saltimbocca pairs well with various sides that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it alongside creamy polenta, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. A simple green salad or garlic bread can also enhance your dining experience, balancing the savory notes of the dish while providing freshness.
Can I make Chicken Saltimbocca ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken Saltimbocca ahead of time for convenience. Cook the chicken as directed and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve its tenderness. This makes Chicken Saltimbocca an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
Conclusion for Chicken Saltimbocca :
In summary, Chicken Saltimbocca is an exquisite Italian dish that brings together flavorful ingredients like chicken, prosciutto, and sage. Its simple preparation makes it accessible for home cooks while delivering restaurant-quality results. Whether you’re enjoying it on a weeknight or serving it at a dinner party, this dish will impress your guests with its delicious taste and presentation. Give Chicken Saltimbocca a try for your next meal and savor every bite!
Chicken Saltimbocca
Savor the vibrant flavors of Italy with this Chicken Saltimbocca recipe. Juicy chicken breasts are layered with aromatic sage and savory prosciutto, creating a dish that’s both elegant and comforting. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this easy-to-make meal will transport your taste buds straight to an Italian trattoria.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 12 fresh sage leaves
- 8 slices prosciutto
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place each chicken breast between plastic wrap and gently pound to about half an inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Lay sage leaves on each breast, top with prosciutto, and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken, prosciutto side down, for about 4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Remove chicken from skillet; add white wine to deglaze, scraping up brown bits. Stir in chicken broth and remaining sage leaves, bringing it to a simmer. Return chicken to the pan and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until cooked through.
- Plate the chicken, drizzle with sauce, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 44 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: For added flavor, substitute prosciutto with cooked bacon or include spinach for a veggie twist. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also enhance the dish's profile.
