As I stood in my kitchen the other evening, the intoxicating aroma of sizzling prosciutto danced in the air, wrapping me in a comforting Italian embrace. This Lightened-Up Chicken Saltimbocca is my go-to recipe when I crave that classic taste without the guilt. By swapping out heavy ingredients for lighter alternatives, this dish offers a delightful twist that keeps your meals both healthy and satisfying. In under 30 minutes, you can whip up succulent chicken paired with crisp prosciutto and fragrant sage—all while basking in vibrant lemon and herb flavors. It’s the perfect remedy for anyone tired of bland takeout and looking for a quick, protein-packed dinner option. Are you ready to bring a taste of Italy to your own table?
Why is Italian Chicken Saltimbocca a must-try?
Quick and Easy Preparation: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something special without the fuss.
Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of crispy prosciutto, fresh sage, and zesty lemon creates a culinary delight that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
Health-Conscious Cooking: Enjoy a guilt-free meal with lean chicken and wholesome ingredients, making it ideal for fitness enthusiasts or anyone looking for lighter options.
Versatility at Its Best: Feel free to get creative! Try it with different proteins like veal or even a vegetarian version with eggplant for a fantastic flavor makeover.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, this dish will make anyone forget about fast food! Pair it with side dishes like Parmesan Roasted Broccoli for an unforgettable meal.
Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Ingredients
• Ready to whip up this delicious masterpiece? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Cutlets – The main protein source keeps the dish tender and juicy during cooking.
- Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor; feel free to substitute with fresh minced garlic for a stronger aroma.
For the Wrapper
- Sage Leaves – Essential for that classic flavor; fresh is best, but dried will work if you’re in a pinch.
- Prosciutto – Provides richness; try thinly sliced turkey bacon for a lighter, lower-sodium option.
For Cooking
- Olive Oil – A healthy fat that aids in cooking; avocado oil is a great alternative if preferred.
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and flavor; vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian twist.
For Brightness
- Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish; bottled juice works, but fresh delivers more zing!
For Thickening
- Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce beautifully; omit if you prefer a lighter sauce with less texture.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to create a lovely version of Italian Chicken Saltimbocca that your family will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Chicken Saltimbocca
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your boneless skinless chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. This will enhance the wonderful flavors of the Italian Chicken Saltimbocca. Allow the seasoned chicken to rest for a few minutes while you prepare the sage and prosciutto layers.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Wrap
Next, place 2-3 sage leaves on top of each chicken cutlet, and then wrap each cutlet tightly with 2 slices of prosciutto. Make sure the prosciutto covers the sage well to lock in its flavor. This step adds a crispy texture and savory taste that’s essential to your Italian Chicken Saltimbocca.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil glistens, gently place the wrapped chicken cutlets in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s fully cooked.
Step 4: Keep the Chicken Warm
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and tent it with aluminum foil to keep warm. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your Italian Chicken Saltimbocca tender and juicy while you prepare the sauce.
Step 5: Make the Flavorful Sauce
Using the same skillet, pour in 1 cup of low sodium chicken broth and the juice of one fresh lemon. Add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch to thicken the sauce, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil and stir for about 1 minute until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the chicken cutlets and generously drizzle the sauce over each piece. Allow the vibrantly flavored sauce to enhance your Italian Chicken Saltimbocca. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as Parmesan Roasted Broccoli, for a delightful meal that will impress your family and friends!
What to Serve with Lightened-Up Chicken Saltimbocca
Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that harmonize beautifully with this classic Italian dish.
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Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: This savory, cheesy side adds a crispy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the tender chicken while infusing your meal with essential nutrients.
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Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, creamy mashed cauliflower boasts a velvety texture that complements the rich flavors of the Chicken Saltimbocca.
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Garlic Herb Quinoa: Fluffy, protein-packed quinoa dressed with fresh herbs offers a healthy and nutty flavor profile, enhancing the lemon and sage accents of your dish.
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Sautéed Garlic Spinach: Quick and nutrient-rich, lightly sautéed spinach adds a vibrant, fresh element that balances the savory richness of the chicken without overpowering it.
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Zesty Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast and a delightful crunch, making your meal feel light and uplifting.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is a delightful pairing, enhancing the flavors of the dish while cooling the palate.
With these options on your table, your Lightened-Up Chicken Saltimbocca meal is sure to impress and satisfy everyone.
Variations & Substitutions for Italian Chicken Saltimbocca
Feel free to customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!
- Pork Alternative: Swap chicken for thin pork cutlets for a delicious change. Pork pairs wonderfully with sage and prosciutto too!
- Vegetarian Version: Use slices of eggplant layered with cheese and sage instead of chicken for a satisfying meat-free alternative.
- Turkey Bacon: Replace prosciutto with turkey bacon for a lighter, lower-sodium option while still maintaining that savory flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.
- Add Capers: For a touch of brininess, toss in capers into the sauce just before serving for a pop of salty goodness.
- Citrus Zest: Boost the lemon flavor by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the sauce for an extra zing.
- Nutty Flavor: Consider finishing your dish with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added texture and nuttiness.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or top your chicken with fresh chili slices!
By tailoring the Italian Chicken Saltimbocca to your liking, every meal can feel uniquely indulgent. If you’re in the mood for more chicken delights, give Dollys Chicken Stuffing or Chicken Enchiladas Flavorful a try!
Make Ahead Options
These Lightened-Up Chicken Saltimbocca are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the chicken by seasoning and wrapping it with sage leaves and prosciutto up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, the sauce can be made in advance and stored separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the chicken as instructed and heat the sauce gently on the stovetop. This ensures that your Italian Chicken Saltimbocca will be just as delicious and satisfying, offering you a delightful meal with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Italian Chicken Saltimbocca
Fridge: Store your Italian Chicken Saltimbocca in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wrapped chicken before cooking. Use a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to prevent dryness while enjoying the rich flavors of your Italian Chicken Saltimbocca.
Expert Tips for Italian Chicken Saltimbocca
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh sage and chicken for maximum flavor and better texture. Fresh ingredients elevate your Italian Chicken Saltimbocca.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Overcooking can lead to dry chicken; aim for 4-5 minutes per side on medium heat for perfectly juicy cutlets.
• Watch the Salt: Prosciutto is salty, so adjust additional salt accordingly. Taste your dish before adding more seasoning to ensure balance.
• Rest the Chicken: Tent your cooked chicken with foil for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.
• Sauce Thickness Preference: If you like a thinner sauce, you can skip the cornstarch. Just remember that the texture won’t be as luscious!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra sauce and cooked chicken ahead of time. Reheat gently to avoid drying out, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Italian Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken cutlets for this recipe?
When selecting chicken cutlets, look for boneless and skinless pieces that are plump and pink. Avoid any that have dark spots or a slimy texture as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh cutlets will stay juicy and tender once cooked.
How should I store leftovers of Italian Chicken Saltimbocca?
Your Italian Chicken Saltimbocca can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain its delicious flavors.
Can I freeze Italian Chicken Saltimbocca?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap the uncooked chicken cutlets tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to prepare, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
What do I do if my chicken turns out dry?
If your chicken ends up dry, it may have been overcooked or cooked at too high a temperature. Always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. If it does happen, try slicing the chicken and simmering it in some chicken broth for a few minutes to help it regain moisture.
Is there a way to make this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! For a gluten-free option, ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free and skip the cornstarch if needed. To make it low-sodium, you can use unsalted broth and turkey bacon instead of prosciutto. Always check food labels to accommodate any allergies—particularly with processed meats.
Can I substitute ingredients if I don’t have them on hand?
Certainly! If you don’t have sage leaves, you can use thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. If prosciutto isn’t available, thinly sliced turkey or chicken bacon can be a great alternative. For lemon juice, fresh is best but bottled versions can work in a pinch. Feel free to explore these options and adjust according to your pantry!
Delicious Italian Chicken Saltimbocca in Under 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Place 2-3 sage leaves on each chicken cutlet and wrap them tightly with prosciutto.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the wrapped chicken cutlets.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove chicken and tent with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, pour in chicken broth and fresh lemon juice; add cornstarch to thicken.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, stirring until slightly thickened.
- Plate the chicken and drizzle with the flavorful sauce.
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