Chicken Saltimbocca: A Taste of Italy

Chicken Saltimbocca is a beloved Italian dish that translates to “jump in the mouth,” a nod to its delightful combination of flavors that truly stand out. This recipe features tender chicken breasts wrapped in prosciutto, flavored with fresh sage, and finished with a savory pan sauce. Let’s explore how to create Chicken Saltimbocca with a recipe that captures the essence of Italian culinary tradition.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 8 slices prosciutto di Parma
• 8 fresh sage leaves
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are about 1/4 inch thick. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Assemble the Saltimbocca

2. On each chicken breast, place 2 slices of prosciutto to cover the surface. Place 2 sage leaves on top of the prosciutto, pressing them gently into the meat.

Step 3: Dredge in Flour

3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. This helps to create a light coating that will aid in browning and thickening the sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

4. In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts, prosciutto-side down, and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

5. Deglaze the skillet with white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Let the wine simmer until it reduces by half, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add chicken broth and lemon juice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and incorporated into the sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

7. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
8. Transfer the Chicken Saltimbocca to serving plates. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately, pairing it with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Success:

• Choosing Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, as they cook quickly and evenly.
• Sage and Prosciutto: Fresh sage leaves and quality prosciutto di Parma are key ingredients that impart authentic Italian flavors to the dish.
• Deglazing: Deglazing the pan with white wine and chicken broth not only adds flavor but also creates a delicious sauce to complement the chicken.

Serving Suggestions:

Chicken Saltimbocca pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as risotto, roasted potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Serve it alongside a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Conclusion:

Chicken Saltimbocca is a classic Italian dish that celebrates the simplicity and richness of Italian cuisine. With its tender chicken, salty prosciutto, and aromatic sage, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy a traditional Italian favorite at home. Embrace the art of making Chicken Saltimbocca with this easy-to-follow recipe and treat yourself to a delicious meal that’s sure to impress.