chef john’s chicken saltimbocca

chef john’s chicken saltimbocca

Are you ready to make a dish that’s as fun to say as it is to eat? Chicken Saltimbocca is a flavorful Italian favorite that combines tender chicken, crispy prosciutto, and fresh sage for an explosion of flavor! I can’t wait to share my favorite recipe with you, complete with tips and tricks to make it perfect every time. Let’s get cooking!

Cook Time: 10
Prep Time: 10
Yields: 2
Calories: 468

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Saltimbocca

Crafting a mouthwatering Chicken Saltimbocca doesn’t require a long shopping list, just a few key ingredients that pack a punch. here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper: These will help enhance the flavors of the chicken.
  • 4 to 8 fresh sage leaves: This herb is crucial for that traditional taste; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
  • 3 thin slices of prosciutto: This Italian cured meat adds a savory richness that complements the chicken beautifully.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Look for extra virgin for a more robust flavor when frying.
  • 2 tablespoons Marsala wine or white wine: Marsala offers a unique sweetness, but any dry white wine will work.
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon: This brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the prosciutto.
  • 1/3 cup chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
  • 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter: This will make your pan sauce silky smooth and delicious.
  • Lemon wedges (optional): For serving,these add a fresh touch to your plate.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a delightful Chicken Saltimbocca that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chicken Saltimbocca

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple steps to make a fabulous Chicken Saltimbocca. Follow these instructions to prepare a dish that’s bursting with flavor:

  1. Prep the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of heavy plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken until it’s about 3/8-inch thick. This step helps tenderize the meat and makes it cook evenly. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  1. Add Sage and Prosciutto: With the smooth side of the chicken facing up, lay 2 to 4 sage leaves per breast. cover the sage with a single layer of prosciutto. The prosciutto not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist during cooking.
  1. Chill: Cover the chicken with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld and will make the chicken easier to handle.
  1. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the pan, prosciutto-side down. Cook for about 3 minutes until the prosciutto is lightly browned.
  1. Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully turn the chicken over and cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until the centre is no longer pink and juices run clear. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F.
  1. Make the Sauce: Remove the chicken and keep it warm on a plate covered with foil. In the same skillet,add Marsala wine,lemon juice,and chicken broth.Bring to a boil, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. cook until the sauce reduces by half, about 3 minutes.
  1. Finish with butter: Lower the heat and swirl in cold unsalted butter until melted and the sauce is smooth.
  1. Serve: spoon the sauce over the chicken and add a lemon wedge on the side if desired.

With these steps,you’ll create a Chicken Saltimbocca that’s as delicious as it is indeed easy to prepare! Enjoy your culinary creation!

 chef john's chicken saltimbocca

Serving and Storage Data for Chicken Saltimbocca

When it comes to serving chicken Saltimbocca, presentation is key. I love to serve this dish warm, right after it’s prepared, to fully enjoy the rich flavors.Here’s how to serve and store it:

Serving Suggestions:

  • Plate it Right: Place the chicken on a warm plate and drizzle the delicious pan sauce generously over the top.
  • garnish: Add a few lemon wedges on the side for an extra splash of colour and brightness.You can even sprinkle some fresh sage leaves for a pop of green.
  • Pair with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad, garlic mashed potatoes, or sautéed vegetables. The fresh greens and lemon balance the richness of the chicken.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerate: If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 days.
  • Reheat: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or a little water to keep it moist. heat until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook, as this can dry out the chicken.
  • Freezing: If you’d like to keep it for longer, you can freeze the chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

With these serving and storage tips, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy chicken Saltimbocca at its best!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Chicken Saltimbocca

While making Chicken Saltimbocca is straightforward, here are some notes and troubleshooting tips to help you achieve the best results:

Flavor Enhancements:

  • If you want to deepen the flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs for 30 minutes before assembling.
  • For a more intense sauce, add a dash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the pan sauce for an extra kick.

Common Issues:

  • Chicken Doesn’t Cook evenly: If your chicken breasts are thick, they may not cook through evenly. Make sure to pound them to an even thickness, around 3/8 inch, to prevent this issue.
  • Prosciutto Isn’t Crispy: If the prosciutto doesn’t crisp up as you’d like, consider increasing the heat slightly during the searing process, but be careful not to burn the chicken.
  • Sauce Too thin or Thick: If your sauce turns out too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce.If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.

Perfecting the Dish:

  • Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon to balance flavors.
  • Feel free to experiment with different herbs,like thyme or rosemary,if sage isn’t your favorite.

With these notes and tips, you’ll be set to create an amazing Chicken Saltimbocca every time!