Chicken Saltimbocca with Sage and Prosciutto
Chicken Saltimbocca is a flavorful Italian dish that combines tender chicken breast, savory prosciutto, and fresh sage in a delightful white wine sauce. It’s a perfect combination of elegance and simplicity, ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of prosciutto
- 8 fresh sage leaves
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the chicken: Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness (about 1/4 inch). Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Add the toppings: Lay 2 sage leaves on each chicken breast, then wrap with 2 slices of prosciutto, pressing gently to secure.
- Dredge: Lightly coat each chicken piece in flour, shaking off the excess.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken, prosciutto-side down, until golden (about 3–4 minutes). Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Finish the dish: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over, and cook for another 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
- Serve: Plate the chicken, drizzle with the pan sauce, and enjoy with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Kcal: 320 per serving | Servings: 4
Easy Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe for a Gourmet Dinner
Want a classic Italian dish that’s both fancy and tasty? Chicken Saltimbocca is your answer. It’s a favorite in Italy and easy to make at home. But what makes it so good? Let’s dive into Chicken Saltimbocca and learn how to make it.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken Saltimbocca is a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken, savory prosciutto, and aromatic sage.
- This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect Chicken Saltimbocca, from ingredient selection to cooking techniques.
- Learn the cultural significance and traditional methods behind this beloved dish.
- Discover tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and mastering the presentation.
- Explore wine pairing suggestions and serving ideas to elevate your Chicken Saltimbocca experience.
Understanding Traditional Italian Chicken Saltimbocca
Chicken saltimbocca is a favorite dish in Italy and America. It comes from Rome and is loved by many. People all over the world enjoy it.
Origins and Cultural Significance
The name “saltimbocca” means “to jump in the mouth.” It’s from Rome and has been loved for centuries. It’s a dish that makes your taste buds jump with joy.
Classic Ingredients Overview
Chicken saltimbocca uses chicken, prosciutto, and sage. These ingredients make the dish special. They give it a unique taste and feel.
Why This Dish Became Popular
Chicken saltimbocca is loved for its mix of flavors and textures. The chicken, prosciutto, and sage work together beautifully. It’s also great as a main dish or part of a big Italian meal.
“The secret to a great saltimbocca is in the quality of the ingredients and the care taken in its preparation.” – Chef Giada De Laurentiis
Essential Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Making the perfect Chicken Saltimbocca needs the right ingredients and tools. You’ll need top-notch chicken breasts, tasty prosciutto slices, and fresh sage. For the sauce, use white wine and a bit of cheese.
Some important tools will help you make it just like a restaurant. A sharp knife is key for cutting the chicken and prosciutto thin. A strong skillet is needed to sear the chicken right. And a meat thermometer ensures the chicken is cooked just right.
- High-quality chicken breasts
- Thin slices of prosciutto
- Fresh sage leaves
- White wine for the sauce
- Cheese (such as Parmesan or Manchego) for the sauce
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Meat thermometer
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to make a delicious Chicken Saltimbocca. It will wow your friends and family.
Chicken Saltimbocca recipe dinner family
Creating a tasty Chicken Saltimbocca dish starts with the right meat cut. You need thin, tender chicken breasts. They should cook evenly and soak up the flavors of prosciutto and sage well. Let’s look at how to pick the best meat for your Saltimbocca.
Preparing the Perfect Meat Cut
Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are the same thickness. This ensures they cook evenly. If the breasts are different sizes, pound them to about 1/4 inch thick. This makes the chicken cook fast and stay tender.
Seasoning and Marinade Tips
After preparing the chicken, season it with spices that match the prosciutto and sage. Use salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder or Italian seasoning. For more flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
Prosciutto Selection Guide
The prosciutto you pick is key for Saltimbocca. Choose thinly sliced, high-quality prosciutto di Parma or prosciutto di San Daniele. These hams add a salty taste and a soft texture when wrapped around the chicken.
| What Meat Is Chicken Shawarma Made Of? | What Is Square Ham Made Of? |
|---|---|
| Chicken shawarma is made from thinly sliced marinated chicken. It’s seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Then, it’s roasted on a vertical spit. | Square ham, or cooked ham, comes from a pig’s hind leg. It’s cured, smoked, and pressed into a square shape. |
With the right meat, seasoning, and prosciutto, you’re ready to make a tasty Chicken Saltimbocca. Your family will love it. Next, we’ll cover more steps to make this classic Italian dish.
Mastering the Prosciutto and Sage Wrapping Technique
Wrapping saltimbocca chicken in prosciutto and sage is key. It adds savory flavor and keeps the chicken moist. This skill is vital for a delicious caprese chicken saltimbocca.
Start with thin, good-quality prosciutto. Place chicken breasts on it and add fresh sage leaves. Then, wrap the prosciutto around the chicken, making sure the sage is inside. Use toothpicks or twine to hold it in place without tearing the prosciutto.
- Choose thin, high-quality prosciutto slices for optimal wrapping.
- Gently place the chicken breasts onto the prosciutto and top with fresh sage leaves.
- Wrap the prosciutto around the chicken, encasing the sage leaves inside.
- Secure the wrapping with toothpicks or kitchen twine, being mindful not to tear the prosciutto.
The secret to great saltimbocca chicken is in the wrapping. Take your time and make sure the prosciutto and sage cover the chicken evenly. This step makes the dish look and taste amazing.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Thin, high-quality prosciutto | 8 slices |
| Fresh sage leaves | 16 leaves |
| Chicken breasts | 4 (6-oz each) |
| Toothpicks or kitchen twine | As needed |
Creating the Perfect Saltimbocca Sauce
The secret to a great Chicken Saltimbocca dish is the sauce. It’s a mix of savory and rich flavors. This makes the dish even better. Let’s learn how to make the perfect Saltimbocca sauce.
Wine and Butter Reduction
The base of the Saltimbocca sauce is white wine and butter. Use a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Add a lot of unsalted butter to make it smooth and velvety.
Let the liquid simmer slowly. This lets the flavors get stronger and the sauce get thicker. This makes the sauce perfect for the chicken.
Seasoning Balance Tips
Getting the seasoning right is key for the Saltimbocca sauce. Add a bit of Piccata. It has lemon, garlic, and herbs for a bright taste. Also, add a little salt and black pepper for more flavor.
The seasoning should make the sauce taste good without covering up the chicken. It’s all about finding the right balance.
Sauce Consistency Guide
The sauce should be silky and stick to the chicken. You might need to adjust how long it cooks or the amount of butter and wine. It should coat the back of a spoon but not be too thick.
Keep tasting and adjusting until it’s just right. This will make your Chicken Saltimbocca dish unforgettable. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.
Cooking Methods and Temperature Control
When making the perfect dish, cooking method and temperature are key. For Chicken Saltimbocca, you can use different cooking ways. This helps get the right texture and taste.
Pan-Frying for Crisp Perfection
Pan-frying is a popular choice for Chicken Saltimbocca. It makes the meat golden and keeps it juicy inside. Keep the pan at 350°F to 375°F and watch the time to avoid overcooking.
Baking for a Healthier Approach
For a healthier option, try baking. Heat your oven to 400°F. Put the Chicken Saltimbocca on a baking sheet with parchment paper. This method cooks the meat evenly and keeps it tender. The prosciutto and sage get crispy and tasty.
| Cooking Method | Temperature Range | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Pan-Frying | 350°F – 375°F | 6-8 minutes per side |
| Baking | 400°F | 20-25 minutes |
No matter how you cook, check the meat temperature. It should hit 165°F. This makes sure the chicken is fully cooked but still juicy.
“The key to a perfect Chicken Saltimbocca is striking the right balance between a crisp exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior.”
Plating and Presentation Techniques
Make your Chicken Saltimbocca look like a fancy restaurant dish. Use a few simple tricks to make your plate look amazing. This will make everyone happy when they see and taste it.
Garnishing Ideas
Garnishes make your Chicken Saltimbocca even better. Try adding fresh sage, Parmesan cheese, or balsamic reduction. These add flavor and look nice.
Side Dish Pairings
There are many great sides for Chicken Saltimbocca. Choose Italian dishes like roasted potatoes, spinach, or arugula salad. These sides make the dish look good and taste great.
Professional Plating Tips
Here’s how to make your dish look like it’s from a fancy restaurant:
- Put the Chicken Saltimbocca on the plate with the prosciutto and sage on top.
- Put the sides in a way that looks good and balanced.
- Drizzle sauce around the plate, not on the chicken.
- Use a white plate to let the dish’s colors and textures stand out.
With these tips, your homemade Chicken Saltimbocca will impress everyone. It will be a fancy meal at home.
Wine Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Choosing the right wine can make your Chicken Saltimbocca even better. There are many wines that go well with this dish. Each one brings out different flavors.
A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is a good choice. These wines cut through the saltiness of the prosciutto and the chicken’s richness. They make the piccata sauce taste even better.
For a red wine, try a light Chianti or Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. These wines have earthy and fruity tastes. They match the savory Saltimbocca flavors, making your meal more enjoyable.
| Wine Pairing | Key Characteristics | Why it Works |
|---|---|---|
| Pinot Grigio | Crisp, dry, and light-bodied | Balances the saltiness of the prosciutto and richness of the chicken |
| Sauvignon Blanc | Zesty, herbaceous, and high in acidity | Cleanses the palate and complements the piccata sauce |
| Chianti | Light-to-medium-bodied, with earthy and fruity notes | Pairs well with the savory flavors of the Saltimbocca |
| Montepulciano d’Abruzzo | Medium-bodied, with ripe fruit and moderate tannins | Harmonizes with the dish’s flavors and textures |
Pair your Chicken Saltimbocca with a simple salad or roasted veggies. This makes a complete Italian meal. Enjoy how the flavors and textures work together.
Conclusion
Chicken Saltimbocca is a tasty Italian dish loved by many. It started in Italy and now people all over love it. This recipe is a real treasure in cooking.
By using fresh chicken, prosciutto, and a tasty sauce, you make a dish that wows everyone. It’s perfect for impressing your family and friends.
To make the best Chicken Saltimbocca, use the freshest ingredients. Pay attention to how you prepare and cook it. Try different flavors to make it your own.
This recipe is great for both experienced cooks and beginners. It’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
If you want to try something new, use veal instead of chicken. Veal Saltimbocca is a popular dish in Italy. It gives the classic recipe a special twist.
And don’t forget to learn how to say “Saltimbocca”. It’s a fun word that will make your dinner guests smile.
FAQ
What is the origin and cultural significance of Chicken Saltimbocca?
Chicken Saltimbocca comes from Rome, Italy. It’s a dish loved for its mix of chicken, prosciutto, and sage. The name “saltimbocca” means “jump in the mouth,” showing its tasty nature.
What are the key ingredients in Chicken Saltimbocca?
Chicken Saltimbocca needs chicken, prosciutto, sage, white wine, butter, and cheese. These ingredients make the dish special.
How do I properly prepare the chicken for Chicken Saltimbocca?
Pound the chicken breasts to 1/4 inch thick. This helps the prosciutto and sage stick well. Season and marinate the chicken for extra flavor.
What is the correct way to wrap the chicken in prosciutto and sage?
To wrap the chicken, start with prosciutto, then sage, and finally the chicken. Use toothpicks or twine to hold it together.
How do I create the perfect Saltimbocca sauce?
Make the sauce by simmering white wine and butter. Whisk in butter and season with herbs and spices. This makes a delicious sauce.
What are the best cooking methods for Chicken Saltimbocca?
You can fry or bake Chicken Saltimbocca. Frying is classic, but baking works well too. Keep the chicken warm and juicy.
How should I plate and present Chicken Saltimbocca?
Garnish with sage, cheese, and sauce. Serve with pasta, veggies, or a Caprese salad. This makes a beautiful dish.
What are the best wine pairings for Chicken Saltimbocca?
Try Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay with Chicken Saltimbocca. These wines match the dish’s flavors well.
Link source:
- Anchor Text: Guide to Italian Herbs and Spices
Link: https://www.thespruceeats.com/italian-herbs-and-spices-1807654
Purpose: Provides additional information on the role of herbs like sage in Italian cuisine, enhancing the reader’s understanding of the dish’s flavor profile. - Anchor Text: Cooking with Prosciutto: Tips and Recipes
Link: https://www.delallo.com/blog/cooking-with-prosciutto/
Purpose: Offers an in-depth look at prosciutto, a key ingredient in Chicken Saltimbocca, including its history and uses in various recipes. - Anchor Text: Pairing White Wine with Food
Link: https://www.winespectator.com/articles/a-guide-to-pairing-white-wine-with-food
Purpose: Helps readers choose the perfect white wine to complement the flavors of Chicken Saltimbocca, enhancing their dining experience.
