Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe: A Delightfully Easy and Elegant Dish
Are you looking for a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly easy to make at home? Look no further than Chicken Saltimbocca! This classic Italian dish is known for its delicate flavors and elegant presentation, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. But don't let its sophistication intimidate you; this recipe is surprisingly simple to follow, even for beginner cooks.
What is Chicken Saltimbocca?
Chicken Saltimbocca, meaning "jumps in the mouth" in Italian, is a dish where thin slices of chicken breast are topped with prosciutto and sage, then quickly sautéed in butter and white wine. The result is a tender, juicy chicken breast with a salty, savory, and slightly herbaceous flavor profile. Its speed and simplicity make it a weeknight favorite, while its taste elevates it to special-occasion status.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Chicken Saltimbocca:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin (about ¼ inch thick)
- 4 large slices prosciutto
- 8 fresh sage leaves
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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Optional additions for extra flavor:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- A squeeze of lemon juice at the end
Step-by-step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Gently pound the chicken breasts to an even ¼ inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and a more tender final product.
- Season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper.
2. Assemble the Saltimbocca:
- Top each chicken breast with a slice of prosciutto and 2 sage leaves.
3. Cook the Chicken:
- Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. If adding garlic, sauté it briefly in the butter before adding the chicken.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
- Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
5. Serve:
- Return the chicken to the skillet to coat it in the sauce.
- Serve immediately, optionally garnished with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken Saltimbocca pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- Creamy polenta: The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the savory chicken.
- Roasted asparagus: A simple and elegant side dish.
- Garlic mashed potatoes: A classic comfort food pairing.
- Simple green salad: A fresh and light counterpoint to the richness of the chicken.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Use high-quality prosciutto: The flavor of the prosciutto will be prominent in the dish, so choose a good quality one.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook it until it's just cooked through.
This recipe is easily adaptable to your taste. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add a splash of chicken broth for extra richness. Enjoy your delicious and impressive Chicken Saltimbocca!
