Chicken Saltimbocca: A Classic Italian Dish to Delight Your Taste Buds

If you’ve ever wanted to bring the flavors of an authentic Italian kitchen into your home, Chicken Saltimbocca is the dish for you. Translating to “jumps in the mouth,” this dish lives up to its name with a symphony of savory and aromatic ingredients. It’s an elegant yet simple recipe that makes any dinner feel like a special occasion.

In this guide, you’ll discover how to make Chicken Saltimbocca step by step, along with tips, variations, and answers to common questions. Get ready to wow your family and friends with this Italian masterpiece!

What Is Chicken Saltimbocca?

Chicken Saltimbocca is a traditional Italian dish featuring thin chicken cutlets topped with fresh sage leaves and wrapped in prosciutto. The cutlets are lightly cooked in olive oil and then simmered in a savory sauce made with white wine, chicken broth, and butter. It’s a dish that’s rich in flavor yet surprisingly easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Saltimbocca

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of prosciutto, sage, and buttery sauce creates a dish that’s perfectly balanced.
• Elegant Yet Simple: It looks impressive but requires minimal effort.
• Versatile: Serve it with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Your guests will think you’ve been to culinary school!

Ingredients for Chicken Saltimbocca

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic dish:

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken Cutlets (6 ounces)	8
Salt	1 teaspoon
Black Pepper	½ teaspoon
Fresh Sage Leaves	16 large
Prosciutto	16 thin slices
Olive Oil	3 tablespoons
Dry White Wine	1 cup
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth	1 cup
Butter	½ stick (4 tbsp)

How to Make Chicken Saltimbocca

1. Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

1. Place each chicken cutlet between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound it with a mallet until about ¼ inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
2. Season both sides of the cutlets with salt and pepper.

2. Add Sage and Prosciutto

1. Lay two sage leaves on one side of each cutlet.
2. Cover the sage leaves with a slice of prosciutto, pressing gently so it adheres to the chicken.

3. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the chicken, prosciutto-side down, into the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the prosciutto is crisp.
3. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for an additional 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

4. Make the Sauce

1. Deglaze the skillet with 1 cup of dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits.
2. Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Stir in the butter until it melts, creating a rich and glossy sauce.

5. Combine and Serve

1. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each cutlet.
2. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to heat through.
3. Serve immediately, drizzled with extra sauce.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Saltimbocca

• Choose Quality Prosciutto: The prosciutto is a key flavor component, so opt for high-quality slices.
• Don’t Skip the Sage: Fresh sage adds a distinctive, earthy aroma that makes this dish authentic.
• Use Dry Wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best to balance the richness of the sauce.
• Keep It Warm: If cooking in batches, keep the chicken warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish the sauce.

Delicious Variations of Chicken Saltimbocca

1. Veal Saltimbocca

Swap the chicken cutlets for veal to make the classic version of this dish.

2. Lemon Chicken Saltimbocca

Add a splash of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, zesty flavor.

3. Stuffed Saltimbocca

Stuff the chicken with mozzarella cheese and spinach before adding the prosciutto for an indulgent twist.

4. Mushroom Sauce Saltimbocca

Include sautéed mushrooms in the sauce for an extra layer of umami.

5. Gluten-Free Saltimbocca

Skip the flour dredging step if a recipe calls for it, ensuring the dish is gluten-free.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	350
Total Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	120mg
Sodium	800mg
Total Carbohydrates	2g
Protein	35g

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What to Serve with Chicken Saltimbocca

• Pasta: Fettuccine or spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic pairs beautifully.
• Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach complement the flavors.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the sauce perfectly.
• Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Chicken Saltimbocca ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken up to the cooking step and refrigerate it. Cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

2. What can I use instead of prosciutto?

Thinly sliced pancetta or even deli ham can be used as a substitute.

3. Can I freeze Chicken Saltimbocca?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Reheat gently to preserve the texture.

4. What’s the best wine for this recipe?

A dry white wine like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or Pinot Grigio works well.

5. Can I make it without wine?

Yes, substitute the wine with extra chicken broth and a tablespoon of lemon juice for acidity.

6. How do I prevent the chicken from overcooking?

Pound the cutlets evenly and keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure they remain tender.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Saltimbocca is a dish that combines elegance and simplicity, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its savory flavors and rich sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Now, it’s your turn—gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating an authentic Italian masterpiece in your own kitchen!