Chicken saltimbocca

Chicken Saltimbocca features tender chicken breasts paired with savory prosciutto and a tangy lemon-wine sauce, offering a delightful blend of flavours. This dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a sophisticated dinner.

25 Nov 2025
Cook time 18 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

8 chicken breasts
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
4 oz prosciutto
3/4 cup whole-grain wheat flour
2 tbsp butter
1.50 tbsp olive oil
4 fl oz white wine
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 lemon

Chicken Saltimbocca is a classic Italian dish that translates to 'jumps in the mouth' due to its explosion of flavors. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with savory prosciutto, and a tangy lemon-wine sauce, making it a delightful choice for an exquisite dinner.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4-inch to ensure even cooking.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with the salt and black pepper.

2. Layer with Prosciutto:
- Place a slice of prosciutto on top of each chicken breast, pressing gently so it adheres.

3. Dredge in Flour:
- Place the whole-grain wheat flour in a shallow dish.
- Lightly dredge each chicken breast (with prosciutto side up) in flour, shaking off any excess.

4. Cook the Chicken:
- In a large pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is hot.
- Place the chicken breasts in the pan, prosciutto side down first.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

5. Prepare the Sauce:
- Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and keep warm.
- In the same pan, carefully pour in the white wine to deglaze. Scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon.
- Let the wine reduce to half, then add the chicken broth.
- Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Add Lemon Juice:
- Squeeze the juice from the lemon into the sauce, stirring to combine.

7. Finish and Serve:
- Return the chicken breasts to the pan to warm through and coat in the sauce for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve the chicken saltimbocca hot, drizzled with the pan sauce.

This Chicken Saltimbocca recipe delivers a blend of savory, tangy, and rich flavors that will surely impress your family or guests. Serve with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad to complete this exquisite meal.

Chicken saltimbocca FAQ:

How long should I cook the chicken breasts for Chicken Saltimbocca?

Cook the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side over medium-high heat, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I substitute the prosciutto in Chicken Saltimbocca?

Yes, you can substitute prosciutto with thinly sliced smoked ham or turkey for a lighter option. However, the flavor profile will change slightly.

What type of wine is best for the sauce?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best for the sauce in Chicken Saltimbocca, complementing the lemon and broth flavors.

How should I store leftover Chicken Saltimbocca?

Store leftover Chicken Saltimbocca in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

What can I serve with Chicken Saltimbocca?

It pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables, risotto, or a simple green salad to balance the rich flavors of the dish.

Tips:

- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly.

- Use fresh, high-quality prosciutto for the best flavor.

- After cooking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices.

- Deglaze the pan with the white wine to incorporate all the delicious browned bits into your sauce.

- Adjust the seasoning of the sauce to taste before serving.

- Garnish with fresh parsley or a lemon wedge for an added touch of freshness.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 490kcal
Protein 66g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fiber 3.17g
Sugar 1.16g
Fat 20g

Chicken saltimbocca