Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe

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The Comfort of Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe

There’s something deeply comforting about a dinner that feels both special and effortless, and that’s exactly what this Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe delivers. I love how the delicate sage and salty prosciutto embrace the tender chicken, creating flavors that are bold yet balanced. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to slow down and savor every bite, like a quiet weekend afternoon in an Italian kitchen.

You’ll notice first the golden crust of the prosciutto, crisped just right, while the chicken stays juicy and tender underneath. The velvety pan sauce, enriched with butter and a splash of white wine, ties the whole dish together with an aromatic finish. This recipe captures that classic Italian flair without overwhelming your cooking time or ingredients.

If you’ve been curious about making something that feels elegant yet approachable, this Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe is just the friend you need in the kitchen. It’s a personal favorite on busy nights and special occasions alike.

Ingredient Guide

• Chicken breasts: Key for a tender, juicy base; pound evenly for quick, even cooking.
• Prosciutto slices: Adds a savory, salty crisp layer; swap with thin pancetta if needed.
• Fresh sage leaves: Offers a fragrant herbal note that complements the meat beautifully.
• All-purpose flour: Light coating helps develop a delicate crust; you can try gluten-free flour for alternatives.
• Olive oil: The foundation of a golden sear; use extra virgin for flavor depth.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and silky texture to the sauce; balance oil with butter to prevent burning.
• Chicken broth: Builds a flavorful pan sauce base; use homemade or low-sodium for control.
• White wine (optional): Brightens and lifts the sauce; substitute with extra broth or lemon juice if preferred.
• Salt and pepper: Keep seasoning light—the prosciutto saltiness shines through.

Prep Before You Begin

Before diving into this Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe, set yourself up for success with a little organization. Flattening the chicken evenly ensures quick cooking and a beautifully tender result, so take your time pounding them out to about a half-inch thickness. Gather your ingredients and have the flour ready for dredging—this mise en place smooths every step and helps you stay focused.

How to Make Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe

1. Pound the chicken gently between two sheets of plastic wrap until about ½ inch thick. This step ensures even cooking and keeps the texture tender.
2. Season lightly with salt and pepper—you’ll appreciate that the prosciutto will add just the right salty balance without overwhelming.
3. Layer your prosciutto and sage on each breast: place two slices of prosciutto, then tuck in a fresh sage leaf, pressing gently so everything adheres without sliding around.
4. Coat lightly with flour on all sides, then shake off the excess. This thin layer helps develop a beautifully crisp crust while keeping the chicken moist inside.

5. Heat olive oil and half the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering and just beginning to sizzle—the perfect temperature to achieve that golden sear.
6. Place chicken prosciutto-side down first, cooking for 4–5 minutes until that side is beautifully crisp and golden brown. You’ll love the aroma as the sage releases its oils during this step.
7. Flip carefully to the other side, then add the remaining butter. Cook for another 4–5 minutes, basting occasionally, to finish cooking the chicken through while building a luscious, velvety shell.
8. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Meanwhile, pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using), scraping up all those golden brown bits from the pan—this creates a deeply flavorful sauce.
9. Simmer the sauce gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced and aromatic, then return the chicken to the pan to coat well.
10. Serve immediately, spooning extra pan sauce over each piece for that last touch of silky richness. Pair it with simple sides like sautéed greens or creamy polenta to complete the meal.

Creative Variations for Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe

• Swap prosciutto for thin pancetta to add a smokier note and a little extra crunch.
• Add a squeeze of lemon to the pan sauce at the end for a bright, citrusy lift that cuts through the richness.
• Use fresh thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a fragrant twist on the classic herb flavor.
• Try serving over creamy risotto or buttery mashed potatoes to make it feel indulgent and comforting.
• For a veggie boost, toss in some sautéed baby spinach or roasted asparagus alongside the chicken.
• Make it gluten-free by swapping all-purpose flour for almond flour or a gluten-free mix.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store cooked chicken saltimbocca in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, so loosen with a splash of broth when reheating.
• Freeze: Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
• Reheat tips: Warm slowly over medium-low heat to avoid drying out the chicken, and add a little butter or broth to revive the sauce’s velvety texture.

Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe FAQs

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Boneless thighs will add extra juiciness, but be sure to adjust cooking times slightly as thighs are thicker.
• Is white wine mandatory for the sauce? Not at all—chicken broth alone works beautifully. White wine adds brightness, but lemon juice is a great non-alcoholic alternative.
• How do I keep the prosciutto from getting soggy? Pressing it firmly onto the chicken and cooking prosciutto-side down first helps crisp it up nicely. Use medium-high heat but watch carefully to prevent burning.
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You sure can! Assemble the chicken with prosciutto and sage, then refrigerate for a few hours before cooking. This deepens the flavors and saves time on busy evenings.
• What side dishes pair well with Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe? Classic options include sautéed spinach, creamy polenta, roasted vegetables, or a light arugula salad with lemon dressing to balance richness.

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