Succulent Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug wrapped in crispy, buttery, and aromatic layers, this Succulent Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken breasts wrapped in delicate slices of prosciutto and fresh sage, then cooked in a luscious pan sauce made from white wine, chicken broth, and butter, this recipe brings a classic Italian favorite straight to your table with minimal fuss. Every bite bursts with vibrant flavors and textures, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a lovely dish to impress friends without stress.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Succulent Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the salty prosciutto that crisps up beautifully, to the fragrant sage that perfumes the dish, to the buttery sauce that ties it all together. Let’s gather everything that makes this flavor symphony possible.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounded thin for quick, even cooking and tenderness.
• 8 slices of prosciutto: Adds savory saltiness and a delicate, crispy texture.
• 8 fresh sage leaves: Delivers a subtle aroma and earthy brightness that complements the chicken.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: Light coating for a silky crust that helps seal in the juices.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a healthy fat base for searing chicken to a golden brown.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that silky pan sauce.
• ½ cup chicken broth: Infuses the sauce with savory depth and moisture.
• ½ cup white wine (optional): Brightens the sauce with acidity and complexity.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Seasoning essentials—just a pinch of salt since prosciutto is salty already.

How to Make Succulent Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

The first step sets the stage for tender, evenly cooked chicken. Place each boneless, skinless breast between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until it reaches about half an inch thick. This ensures quick cooking and a delicate texture that’s a joy to bite into.

Step 2: Season and Layer

Next, sprinkle a light touch of salt and pepper on the chicken. Be cautious because the prosciutto adds plenty of saltiness already. Lay two slices of prosciutto on top of each chicken breast, then tuck a fresh sage leaf beneath the prosciutto. Press gently so the prosciutto adheres well to the chicken, locking in the herb’s wonderful fragrance.

Step 3: Flour the Chicken

To get a lovely light crust, lightly dust each stuffed chicken breast with all-purpose flour. Then, shake off any excess so you get just a delicate coating that will brown nicely without being heavy or gummy.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil and half the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the fat is sizzling hot, place the chicken prosciutto-side down in the pan. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the prosciutto is golden and crispy—this texture contrast is one of the highlights of the dish.

Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking

Carefully flip the chicken breasts, then add the remaining butter to the pan. Continue cooking another 4 to 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and beautifully browned on both sides. The butter melts into that crispy prosciutto crust, turning every bite irresistibly rich.

Step 6: Make the Pan Sauce

Remove the chicken briefly from the skillet, then pour in the chicken broth and white wine. Scrape up all the tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Let the liquid simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it reduces and thickens slightly, creating a luscious sauce. Return the chicken to the pan to coat it in this buttery, flavorful sauce before plating.

How to Serve Succulent Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and flavor, garnish with a few fresh sage leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. A light drizzle of the pan sauce over the top adds a shiny, inviting finish that makes the dish feel truly special.

Side Dishes

Classic pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a bright lemony arugula salad. These sides balance the richness of the chicken saltimbocca and infuse the meal with fresh, vibrant notes that make every mouthful sing.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your saltimbocca on a rustic wooden board for a cozy, family-style feel, or stack the chicken breasts on a large platter with the pan sauce poured generously over. For a restaurant-worthy flair, you can place the chicken over polenta or risotto, creating a comforting bed to soak up all the sauce’s goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from your Succulent Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover the chicken with some of the pan sauce so it stays moist and flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of cooked saltimbocca by wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil and placing them in freezer bags. Keep frozen for up to 2 months, making sure to label the package so you remember the delicious treasure inside.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, spooning some pan sauce over the chicken to keep it from drying out. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can toughen the chicken and diminish the lovely crispy prosciutto texture.

FAQs

Can I use other herbs instead of sage in this recipe?

While sage is traditional and adds that distinct earthy aroma, you can experiment with thyme or rosemary for a slightly different flavor profile. Just be mindful that their stronger flavors will change the character of the dish.

Is it necessary to use white wine in the pan sauce?

The wine adds acidity and depth, but if you prefer to skip alcohol, simply replace it with extra chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice for brightness. The sauce will still be delicious and rich.

How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?

Flattening the chicken to an even thickness is key, as it enables quick, even cooking without drying out. Also, cooking over medium-high heat ensures you get a golden crust while locking in the juices.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch. The coating helps with browning and sauce texture, so make sure to use an appropriate substitute.

Is prosciutto absolutely required for authentic saltimbocca?

Prosciutto is definitely traditional as it delivers salty, savory, and crispy elements that balance the tender chicken. However, if unavailable, you could try thin slices of pancetta or even bacon, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Final Thoughts

This Succulent Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe effortlessly combines simple ingredients with classic Italian flair to create a comforting yet elegant meal. Give it a try for your next dinner and delight in the perfect harmony of crispy prosciutto, fragrant sage, and rich buttery sauce that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

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