Chicken Saltimbocca (Chicken with Prosciutto)

Chicken Saltimbocca is an Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken cutlets topped with savory prosciutto and fragrant sage, all sautéed in a buttery white wine sauce. This elegant yet easy-to-make recipe is full of flavor and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, Savory Flavors – The combination of prosciutto, sage, and white wine creates a rich and satisfying dish.
• Quick & Elegant – Ready in under 30 minutes, but tastes like a gourmet meal.
• Low Carb – Naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for keto or gluten-free diets.
• Perfect for Entertaining – Impressive presentation with minimal effort.
• Pairs Beautifully – Goes well with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Prosciutto slices
• Fresh sage leaves
• All-purpose flour (for dusting)
• Olive oil
• Unsalted butter
• Dry white wine
• Chicken broth
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine (optional, to secure prosciutto)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken – Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
2. Add Prosciutto and Sage – Place a sage leaf or two on each cutlet and top with a slice of prosciutto. Press gently or secure with toothpicks.
3. Lightly Dredge – Dust the underside (chicken side only) of each piece in flour.
4. Sauté the Chicken – Heat olive oil and a bit of butter in a skillet. Cook chicken prosciutto-side down first for 2–3 minutes, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
5. Make the Sauce – In the same skillet, add white wine and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in remaining butter.
6. Return Chicken to Pan – Warm the chicken in the sauce for a minute, spooning sauce over top.
7. Serve Warm – Plate with sauce and garnish with extra sage if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Version – Add a thin slice of provolone or mozzarella beneath the prosciutto.
• Lemon Twist – Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce for brightness.
• No Wine Option – Substitute white wine with more chicken broth for an alcohol-free version.
• Breaded Style – Dredge the whole cutlet in flour before adding prosciutto for a crispy coating.
• Veal Saltimbocca – Use veal cutlets for a more traditional Roman-style version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or in the microwave at 50% power.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as prosciutto and sauce may become watery after thawing.

FAQs

What does “saltimbocca” mean?

Saltimbocca means “jumps in the mouth” in Italian—referring to its bold, delicious flavor.

Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?

Fresh sage is best for aroma and flavor, but dried sage can be used in a pinch—just use sparingly.

What kind of wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best for the sauce.

Is flour necessary for this recipe?

It helps the sauce cling to the chicken and adds a slight crust, but you can skip it for a gluten-free version.

Can I make this with chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs can be used, though cook time may be slightly longer.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead and reheat gently before serving.

What sides go well with Chicken Saltimbocca?

Polenta, mashed potatoes, sautéed spinach, or pasta make excellent accompaniments.

Do I have to use prosciutto?

Prosciutto is traditional, but you can substitute with very thinly sliced ham if needed.

Can I bake Chicken Saltimbocca instead of frying?

Yes, sear briefly then finish in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes until cooked through.

How do I keep the prosciutto from curling or falling off?

Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure it while cooking. Pressing it gently into the chicken also helps.

Conclusion

Chicken Saltimbocca is a flavorful, sophisticated dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. With its tender chicken, savory prosciutto, and sage-infused wine sauce, it’s a classic that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and let the flavors speak for themselves!

Print