Chicken Saltimbocca is an Italian dish that blends tender chicken with the savory flavors of prosciutto, sage, and a delicious white wine sauce. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy prosciutto, and aromatic sage creates a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can recreate this classic Italian dish in your own kitchen.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

To make Chicken Saltimbocca, you’ll need the following equipment:

Large skillet or frying pan
Tongs or a spatula for flipping the chicken
Knife for trimming chicken and slicing prosciutto
Cutting board
Meat mallet (optional, for flattening chicken)
Plate for assembly
Measuring spoons

What do you need to prepare Chicken Saltimbocca?

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 slices of prosciutto
Fresh sage leaves (about 8-12 leaves)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Toothpicks (for securing the prosciutto and sage)

How to make Easy Chicken Saltimbocca Step-by-Step ?

Step 1: Flatten the chicken breasts using a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are even in thickness (about 1/2-inch thick). This ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Lay 2 slices of prosciutto on each chicken breast, covering the surface evenly. Place 2-3 sage leaves on top of the prosciutto. Secure everything with toothpicks.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts, prosciutto-side down, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the prosciutto is golden and crispy.
Step 4: Flip the chicken breasts and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: In the same skillet, melt butter and add white wine and chicken broth. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce and thicken. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some sauce over it. Simmer for another 2 minutes to reheat and allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and discard the toothpicks.

Variations

Chicken Saltimbocca can be adapted in several ways. For a lighter version, you can use turkey breasts instead of chicken. If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider adding a dash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce for added depth. For those who love cheese, try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan on top of the chicken before serving.

Additionally, you can swap out sage for fresh basil or thyme for a slight twist on the traditional flavor profile. Lastly, if you’re short on time, you can prepare the dish using boneless chicken thighs for a faster cooking time without compromising flavor.

Cooking Note

When making Chicken Saltimbocca, be sure to cook the chicken on medium-high heat to get a crispy prosciutto crust without overcooking the chicken. The key is to not rush the process; allow the chicken to cook thoroughly and the sauce to reduce for maximum flavor. Don’t skip the step of flattening the chicken breasts, as this ensures the meat cooks evenly.

If you prefer a more intense wine flavor, opt for a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. You can also add a bit of garlic to the sauce for extra depth, but traditional recipes focus on the simplicity of the sage and prosciutto.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Saltimbocca pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a creamy risotto or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a lighter option, a fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette would complement the rich flavors of the chicken.

If you’re in the mood for pasta, try serving the chicken with some spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in olive oil and garlic. For a classic Italian touch, serve with a glass of dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Helpful Tips

If you prefer a crispier prosciutto, you can briefly place the prosciutto under the broiler before serving. This will add extra crunch and flavor.
Don’t forget to remove the toothpicks before serving!
If the wine sauce is too tangy, a small amount of honey can be added to balance out the acidity.
You can prepare the chicken and prosciutto ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking, making the dinner prep even faster.

Tips for the Best Chicken Saltimbocca

Be sure to use fresh sage leaves; they contribute to the authenticity of the dish.
Use a non-stick skillet for easier cooking and cleanup.
Don’t overcook the chicken; it should remain tender and juicy, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
Experiment with different wines if you prefer a more robust or mild flavor in the sauce.
Always let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Timing Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350
Protein: 36g
Sodium: 670mg

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FAQs

Can I make Chicken Saltimbocca ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and prosciutto and refrigerate it before cooking. The wine sauce can also be made in advance and reheated when you’re ready to serve.
Can I substitute prosciutto with something else?
If you don’t have prosciutto, you can use pancetta or even thinly sliced bacon as an alternative. The flavor will differ slightly but still be delicious.
What can I serve with Chicken Saltimbocca?
Chicken Saltimbocca pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, pasta, or even a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Chicken Saltimbocca is a flavorful and elegant Italian dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. With its delicious combination of tender chicken, crispy prosciutto, and aromatic sage, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or preparing a weeknight meal, this recipe offers an authentic taste of Italy that you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home.

Don’t forget to experiment with variations to make the dish your own, and enjoy every bite!