Ina Garten’s Zesty Herbed Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe for Dinner Joy

Succulent chicken breasts dance with prosciutto in this classic Ina Garten chicken saltimbocca recipe that promises a symphony of flavors.

The delicate layers of meat promise an elegant dining experience.

Sage leaves and white wine create a luxurious sauce that elevates every bite.

Fresh ingredients come together with surprising ease, making this dish both impressive and approachable.

Tender chicken wrapped in salty prosciutto melts in your mouth with each forkful.

The recipe brings a touch of Italian sophistication to your dinner table.

You’ll want to savor every delectable moment of this restaurant-worthy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 470 kcal

Servings: 4

Everything for Ina Garten Chicken Saltimbocca

• Chicken Breasts: Tender canvas for this elegant dish, choose plump, evenly sized breasts for consistent cooking.
• Prosciutto: Adds luxurious salty flavor, select thin, high-quality slices that easily drape over chicken.
• Sage Leaves: Introduces earthy, aromatic notes, pick fresh, vibrant green leaves without discoloration.

• All-Purpose Flour: Creates delicate golden crust and helps thicken sauce, sift to prevent lumps.
• Butter: Provides rich, velvety texture and helps achieve beautiful golden-brown sear.
• Olive Oil: Prevents butter from burning and adds subtle fruity undertone.

• White Wine: Deglazes pan and adds bright, acidic complexity, choose dry varieties like pinot grigio.
• Chicken Stock: Builds depth and brings sauce together, use low-sodium for better control of saltiness.
• Salt and Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that elevate and balance all other flavors.

Kitchen Equipment for Cooking Saltimbocca

• Large skillet: Key for searing chicken and creating a flavorful sauce.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping chicken and handling meat safely.
• Cutting board: Needed for preparing and seasoning chicken.
• Sharp knife: Essential for trimming chicken breasts if necessary.
• Measuring spoons: Helps measure salt, pepper, and other seasonings accurately.
• Plate: Used for setting aside cooked chicken and resting meat.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring sauce and scraping skillet.

Step-by-Step Chicken Saltimbocca Instructions

• Herbal Chicken Preparation

Grab fresh chicken breasts and season them with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Lovingly place sage leaves on top, then drape each piece with a delicate slice of prosciutto, gently pressing to make them stick.

• Flour Coating

Dust the chicken with a light veil of flour, shaking off any excess for a perfect, delicate crust.

• Sizzling Skillet Action

Warm a large skillet with butter and olive oil until it’s dancing with heat. Carefully lay the chicken in, letting the prosciutto side turn a gorgeous golden brown. Flip once to ensure even cooking, then set aside on a waiting plate.

• Magical Sauce Creation

In the same skillet, pour in white wine and watch it bubble and reduce. Add chicken stock and let the liquid transform into a rich, silky sauce that promises incredible flavor.

• Final Flavor Fusion

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Let everything simmer together for a few moments, allowing the flavors to mingle and the chicken to become perfectly tender.

• Elegant Serving

Plate the chicken and cascade the luxurious sauce over the top, creating a dish that looks as stunning as it tastes.

Tips for Rolling and Cooking Saltimbocca Perfectly

• Choose fresh, vibrant sage leaves for the most aromatic and flavorful chicken. Crisp, bright green leaves will provide the best taste and appearance.
• Opt for thinly sliced, high-quality prosciutto that's not too salty. Italian imported prosciutto works best for authentic flavor and delicate texture.
• Use all-purpose flour or try gluten-free alternatives like almond flour for a lighter coating. Gently pat the chicken dry before flouring to ensure a crispy exterior.
• Select a dry white wine like pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc that complements the chicken's delicate flavor. Avoid overly sweet or oakey wines that might overpower the dish.
• Replace chicken breasts with veal or turkey cutlets for a different twist. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the meat to ensure perfect doneness.

Ideas to Plate Chicken Saltimbocca with Sides

• Plate with Elegant Flair: Arrange the golden-brown chicken breasts on a pristine white platter, showcasing the crispy prosciutto and delicate sage leaves.
• Pasta Perfect Pairing: Serve alongside creamy fettuccine or buttery risotto to soak up the rich, wine-infused sauce and complement the savory chicken.
• Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or additional sage leaves over the dish for a burst of color and bright, aromatic finish that elevates the presentation.
• Wine Companion: Pour a crisp pinot grigio or light chardonnay that mirrors the white wine in the sauce, creating a harmonious dining experience that delights the palate.

Store Saltimbocca So It Stays Juicy

• Manage Leftovers Smartly: Store cooked chicken saltimbocca in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring maximum flavor retention.
• Freeze with Care: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags to maintain quality for 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat Gently: Warm chicken in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken stock to prevent drying. Alternatively, use the microwave with a damp paper towel to keep moisture locked in.
• Plan Ahead: Prep chicken breasts and assemble ingredients the night before to streamline cooking. This technique saves time and reduces stress during meal preparation.