The Key Ingredients: Chicken, Prosciutto, and Sage

Chicken Breasts: The Perfect Base

Chicken breasts are the ideal choice for this dish because they are tender and quick to cook. By pounding them to an even thickness, the chicken cooks quickly and uniformly, ensuring that each bite is juicy and tender. The thinness of the chicken allows the prosciutto and sage to adhere better, creating a well-balanced flavor profile.

Prosciutto: Adding Savory Richness

The prosciutto is what truly elevates the chicken in this dish. The salty, savory flavor of the thinly sliced cured ham complements the mild taste of the chicken perfectly. When cooked, the prosciutto crisps up, creating a satisfying texture that contrasts with the tender chicken. Wrapping the chicken in prosciutto infuses it with rich, umami flavors, enhancing its taste without overpowering the dish.

Sage: A Herb That Brings Freshness and Aroma

Fresh sage leaves add an aromatic, slightly peppery flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory prosciutto. Sage is a classic herb used in Italian cooking, especially in dishes like Saltimbocca, where its earthy flavors complement the richness of the meat. The sage also adds a fresh, fragrant note, balancing the richness of the prosciutto and butter in the dish.

Making Italian Chicken Saltimbocca: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

To start, place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to about ½-inch thickness. This step helps the chicken cook more evenly and tenderizes the meat, ensuring a juicy, flavorful result. Afterward, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Wrap with Prosciutto and Sage

Next, lay two slices of prosciutto over each chicken breast, followed by one fresh sage leaf on top of each. The prosciutto will stick to the chicken and provide a rich, salty layer, while the sage leaves will infuse the chicken with their fragrant aroma. This combination of ingredients adds depth of flavor and texture to the chicken, creating a mouthwatering result.

Step 3: Dredge in Flour

Lightly dredge the prosciutto-wrapped chicken breasts in flour, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly. The flour helps create a golden, crispy crust while cooking, giving the dish a delightful texture. Shake off any excess flour before cooking to prevent clumping.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts, prosciutto side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. The prosciutto should begin to crisp up as well.

Carefully flip the chicken and add the remaining butter to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the prosciutto is crispy and caramelized. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F for it to be fully cooked.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. To make the sauce, pour chicken broth and white wine (if using) into the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These flavorful bits, known as fond, add depth and richness to the sauce.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to reduce for about 2-3 minutes, concentrating the flavors and thickening the sauce slightly.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet and allow it to coat with the sauce for about 1 minute. The sauce will add moisture and flavor to the chicken, while the prosciutto and sage infuse the sauce with their savory aromas. Serve the chicken immediately, spooning the sauce over the top for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Chicken Saltimbocca is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Sautéed Vegetables: Pair this dish with sautéed vegetables such as spinach, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts to balance out the richness of the chicken and sauce.

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are an excellent choice for soaking up the flavorful sauce, making for a satisfying and hearty meal.

• Pasta: A simple pasta dish, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, would pair wonderfully with the chicken, offering a light, complementary side to the rich flavors.

• Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, arugula, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Breakdown

Italian Chicken Saltimbocca provides a great balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with 30 grams of protein from the chicken, making it a good option for those looking to maintain muscle mass or simply enjoy a high-protein meal. The dish also offers a good amount of healthy fats, coming from the olive oil and butter used in cooking.

With just 5 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fiber per serving, this dish is suitable for low-carb or ketogenic diets. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, iron, and calcium, which are important for heart and bone health.

Why Italian Chicken Saltimbocca is Perfect for Any Occasion

Italian Chicken Saltimbocca is a versatile and flavorful dish that works well for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, salty prosciutto, and fragrant sage makes it a crowd-pleaser that will impress guests at a dinner party or family gathering. It’s simple to prepare yet feels elegant, making it the perfect choice for a cozy meal at home or a celebratory dinner.

The balance of savory flavors and textures ensures that each bite is satisfying, and the rich sauce adds a luxurious finish to the dish. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this dish is a foolproof way to enjoy classic Italian flavors at home.

Conclusion: A Classic Italian Dish with Timeless Appeal

Italian Chicken Saltimbocca is the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. The tender chicken breasts wrapped in prosciutto and sage are enhanced by a rich sauce made with chicken broth and white wine, creating a deliciously savory and aromatic dish. Whether served for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will never disappoint. Its savory flavors, quick preparation, and elegance make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.