Why You’ll Love Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe
This Chicken Saltimbocca delivers impressive restaurant‑quality flavor with minimal effort. The combination of crisp prosciutto, fragrant sage, and a buttery wine sauce creates rich, layered flavors that contrast beautifully with the juicy chicken. It’s elegant yet approachable, quick to cook, and sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breasts (cut into thin cutlets)
salt
black pepper
fresh sage leaves
thin slices of prosciutto
all‑purpose flour
olive oil
garlic (minced)
dry white wine
cold butter (for mounting the sauce)
lemon juice
Directions
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Lightly season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper, then top each cutlet with sage leaves and a slice of prosciutto, pressing to adhere.
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Dredge each assembled cutlet in flour, tapping off any excess so the coating is thin.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Place the chicken in the pan prosciutto‑side down and sear until the prosciutto is crisp and golden, about 2–3 minutes.
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Flip the chicken and cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, about another 2–4 minutes depending on thickness.
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Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover to rest.
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Lower the heat slightly and add a bit of butter to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
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Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer until reduced by about half.
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Turn the heat to low and whisk in the remaining cold butter pieces until the sauce is glossy and slightly thickened.
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Return the chicken to the pan just to warm through, spooning the sauce over the top. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
• Herb variation: Swap sage for fresh thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note.
• Lemon-garlic sauce: Add extra lemon zest and minced garlic for a bright, citrusy twist.
• Wine substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with low-sodium chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging to make the recipe gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the chicken and sauce separately if possible.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water until heated through to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
What is Saltimbocca?
Saltimbocca is a classic Italian dish traditionally made with veal, prosciutto, and sage. This chicken version is a more accessible twist with all the same savory notes.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They’re juicier but may require slightly longer cooking time.
What wine should I use for the sauce?
A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Vermentino is ideal for the sauce.
Is prosciutto necessary?
Prosciutto adds essential flavor and texture, but you can substitute with thin sliced ham in a pinch.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate, but it’s best cooked and served fresh.
How do I keep the prosciutto crisp?
Sear it well on the first side and only briefly return the chicken to the sauce before serving.
What sides pair well with Chicken Saltimbocca?
Try serving with buttered pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or sautéed spinach for a complete meal.
Can I skip the flour dredge?
You can skip it, but the flour helps achieve a golden sear and enhances the sauce’s texture.
What if I don’t have fresh sage?
Dried sage can be used in moderation, though fresh sage is strongly recommended for the best flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear.
Conclusion
Chicken Saltimbocca is a delightful blend of savory prosciutto, aromatic sage, and juicy chicken, all brought together with a luscious wine butter sauce. It’s deceptively simple yet elegant enough for guests, making it a versatile recipe to elevate any dinner. With easy preparation and rich flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
