There’s an undeniable warmth that fills the kitchen when I cook Italian Chicken Saltimbocca. The moment the prosciutto crisps and mingles with the aromatic sage, I know I’m about to create something special. This elegant dish, featuring succulent chicken breasts wrapped in savory goodness, can be on your table in under 30 minutes. It’s a fantastic solution for anyone tired of the fast-food rut or dreaming of a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Whether you’re hosting friends for a spontaneous dinner or just looking to spice up your weeknight meals, Chicken Saltimbocca is a winner. With its low-carb, high-protein profile, this recipe fits seamlessly into a healthy meal plan—plus, it’s versatile enough for endless variations. Fancy a cheesy twist? Or perhaps a vegetarian option? The possibilities are as enticing as the dish itself. So grab your apron, and let’s elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering Italian classic!
Why is Chicken Saltimbocca worth making?
Simplicity in Preparation: This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Elevated Flavors: The crispy prosciutto and sage create a savory experience that’ll impress anyone at your table.
Versatile Variations: Want to go cheesy? Add mozzarella! Prefer a meatless meal? Swap in eggplant for a delicious vegetarian version.
Health-Conscious Choice: With its low-carb and high-protein attributes, this recipe supports your wellness goals without sacrificing taste.
Quick Clean-Up: Minimal ingredients and cookware mean less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones!
Chicken Saltimbocca Ingredients
• Get ready to savor the goodness!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless for a tender, easy-to-cook protein.
- Prosciutto – Provides a savory, crispy layer; substitute with smoked ham for a similar flavor.
- Fresh Sage Leaves – Offers aromatic notes that beautifully complement the chicken; rosemary or thyme makes a great alternative.
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates a light crust; use gluten-free flour for a low-carb option.
For the Cooking
- Olive Oil – Essential for cooking with depth; feel free to use butter or other oils as an alternative.
- Unsalted Butter – Enhances the dish’s flavor; remember to adjust saltiness if you opt for salted butter.
For the Sauce
- Chicken Broth – Forms the rich base for the sauce; feel free to use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- White Wine (optional) – Adds depth and complexity; substitute lemon juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
- Salt and Pepper – Key seasonings that elevate the overall flavor of your Chicken Saltimbocca.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re just moments away from delighting your taste buds with this exquisite dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine!
How to Make Chicken Saltimbocca
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Flatten: Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound them to about ½ inch thickness using a meat mallet. This step ensures even cooking and tenderness.
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Season: Generously season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper, enhancing the flavor of this savory dish.
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Wrap: Wrap each chicken breast with two slices of prosciutto and one fresh sage leaf. The prosciutto will crisp up and add a wonderful depth of flavor.
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Dredge: Gently dredge each wrapped chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. This creates a beautiful, light crust when cooked.
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Sauté: In a skillet, heat olive oil and unsalted butter over medium-high until shimmering. This indicates that it’s ready for the chicken.
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Cook: Place the chicken in the skillet, prosciutto-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes until crispy and golden. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Deglaze: Remove the chicken from the skillet and add chicken broth and white wine (if using) to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
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Simmer: Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Return the chicken to the pan so it can soak up those delicious flavors before serving.
Optional: Garnish with additional sage leaves for a fresh finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Saltimbocca
Fridge: Keep leftover Chicken Saltimbocca in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store it with sauce to maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze wrapped Chicken Saltimbocca for up to 2 months. Place in a sealed freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it juicy and delicious.
Make-Ahead: Prepare chicken and wrap them up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the fridge. Simply sauté when you’re ready to serve, making this meal an easy weeknight delight!
Expert Tips for Chicken Saltimbocca
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Pound Evenly: Ensure you pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to avoid toughness and achieve perfect tenderness.
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and juicy results.
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Avoid Sogginess: Don’t skimp on the flour dredging; this helps create a light, crispy crust that will elevate your Chicken Saltimbocca.
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Substitution Savvy: If you don’t have prosciutto, smoked ham works just as well, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
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Store Wisely: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture, or freeze for up to two months to enjoy later.
Chicken Saltimbocca Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this classic dish to suit your taste buds!
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Cheesy Addition: Layer mozzarella underneath the prosciutto for a melty, rich flavor that adds an indulgent twist.
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Vegetarian Version: Swap out chicken for thick slices of eggplant; the prosciutto and sage will still shine beautifully together.
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Grilled Option: Fire up the grill for an outdoor touch, adding a delightful smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish.
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Incorporate Vegetables: Toss in fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes with the chicken wrap for an explosion of color and nutrition.
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Use Different Meats: Thinly sliced pork works equally well; it’s a versatile swap that brings a different twist to this Italian classic.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of sage to change the flavor profile while keeping the essence of this dish alive.
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Add Heat: Spice things up with red pepper flakes for a kick that will warm your palate and invigorate each bite.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate a touch of lemon zest into the sauce for a refreshing brightness that complements the savory elements beautifully.
What to Serve with Chicken Saltimbocca?
Creating a memorable dining experience doesn’t stop at the main dish; it’s about the perfect sidekicks too!
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the savory chicken, absorbing the delicious sauce beautifully.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp and vibrant, these green beans add a fresh crunch, balancing the richness of the Chicken Saltimbocca with their bright flavor.
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Arugula Salad: Peppery and slightly bitter, fresh arugula dressed with a light vinaigrette cuts through the dish’s richness, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies brings color and texture to the table, enhancing the meal with their natural sweetness and caramelization.
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Lemon Risotto: Creamy and zesty, this risotto pairs wonderfully with the chicken, as it balances the savory flavors with a bright, citrusy touch, making each bite exciting.
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White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio provides a refreshing sip that complements the dish’s savory notes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Lemon Sorbet: End the meal with a light and refreshing lemon sorbet that cleanses your palate and leaves a lingering sweetness, a perfect finish after such a rich meal.
Let your imagination run wild and mix and match these delightful sides to create a well-rounded, memorable feast!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Saltimbocca bundles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the chicken by flattening and seasoning it, wrapping each breast with prosciutto and sage, and refrigerating them for up to 24 hours. This way, your dinner can be on the table in no time. Additionally, you can dredge the wrapped chicken in flour before storing it, saving even more time when you’re ready to cook. To maintain quality, cover the chicken tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re set to serve, simply sauté the chicken and finish with the delicious sauce for that restaurant-quality meal at home!
Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Chicken Saltimbocca?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish. They cook quickly and remain juicy. If you’re a fan of dark meat, you can also opt for boneless chicken thighs, which provide a richer flavor.
How should I store leftover Chicken Saltimbocca?
Absolutely! Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the chicken and sauce together to maintain moisture and flavor. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing.
Can I freeze Chicken Saltimbocca?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Saltimbocca! Here’s how: Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a sealed freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How do I reheat Chicken Saltimbocca to avoid drying it out?
To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist while warming. Cover the skillet to trap steam and help retain juiciness. This method should keep your Chicken Saltimbocca as delicious as when it was first cooked!
Can I make Chicken Saltimbocca ahead of time?
Very! You can prepare the chicken by wrapping it in prosciutto and sage up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This makes for super quick preparation when it’s time to serve, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
Are there any dietary concerns for Chicken Saltimbocca?
Yes, be mindful of gluten if you’re using all-purpose flour; opt for a gluten-free flour if necessary. For a lower-sodium version, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and prosciutto. If you’re concerned about allergies, always check the labels of your ingredients for potential allergens, especially when substituting.
Savor the Flavors: Easy Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Flatten chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to ½ inch thickness.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Wrap each chicken breast with two slices of prosciutto and one sage leaf.
- Dredge each wrapped chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high until shimmering.
- Cook chicken in the skillet, prosciutto-side down, for 4-5 minutes until golden, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove chicken and add chicken broth and wine to deglaze the pan.
- Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes, then return chicken to pan before serving.