Ina Garten Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe

Ina Garten’s Chicken Saltimbocca is a flavorful Italian dish featuring tender chicken cutlets wrapped in prosciutto and sage, served in a rich and buttery sauce. This elegant recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a delightful weeknight meal.

What is Ina Garten Chicken Saltimbocca?

Chicken Saltimbocca is a traditional Italian dish that translates to “jumps in the mouth,” referring to its burst of flavor. The dish combines thin chicken cutlets with prosciutto, fresh sage, and a savory white wine sauce for a harmonious blend of flavors.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Chicken Saltimbocca

• Bursting with flavor: A perfect mix of savory and aromatic notes.
• Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Elegant presentation: Ideal for entertaining guests.
• Customizable: Adjust ingredients to suit your taste.
• A classic dish: Brings a touch of Italy to your table.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Chicken Saltimbocca

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 4, butterflied and pounded thin
• Salt and black pepper: To taste
• Fresh sage leaves: 8 large
• Prosciutto di Parma: 4 thin slices
• All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup, for dusting
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons, divided
• Dry white wine: 1/4 cup
• Chicken stock: 1 cup
• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
• Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Chicken Saltimbocca

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

• Season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper.
• Place two sage leaves on each piece of chicken, then cover each with a slice of prosciutto. Press firmly to adhere.
• Lightly dust both sides of the chicken with flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Sear the chicken

• Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Place the chicken in the skillet, prosciutto side down, and sear for 2–3 minutes until golden. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Make the sauce

• Reduce the heat to medium and add the white wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.
• Add the chicken stock and simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in the lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of butter, whisking until smooth.

Step 4: Finish the dish

• Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Cook for 2–3 minutes to heat through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

• Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and pour the sauce over it. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Chicken Saltimbocca

• Mashed potatoes: A creamy side dish to soak up the sauce.
• Pasta: Serve with spaghetti or fettuccine for a complete Italian meal.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus complement the flavors.
• Crisp salad: A light arugula salad balances the richness of the dish.
• White wine: Pair with a dry Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Chicken Saltimbocca

• Use fresh sage: Enhances the aromatic flavor of the dish.
• Don’t skip the flour dusting: It helps create a golden crust on the chicken.
• Deglaze the skillet: Scrape up the browned bits for a flavorful sauce.
• Keep the chicken thin: Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking.
• Serve immediately: The dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Chicken Saltimbocca

• Cheesy twist: Add a slice of mozzarella or Parmesan under the prosciutto.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with thin slices of eggplant or zucchini.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Herbaceous flavor: Use thyme or rosemary in addition to sage.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Chicken Saltimbocca

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended as the texture of prosciutto and sauce may change.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken stock to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for chicken saltimbocca?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their thickness, but they add extra flavor and juiciness to the dish.

What can I substitute for prosciutto in chicken saltimbocca?

If prosciutto is not available, thinly sliced ham or pancetta can be used as a substitute. Turkey bacon is another option for a lighter variation.

How do I prevent the prosciutto from falling off while cooking?

Press the prosciutto firmly onto the chicken and lightly dust with flour before searing. This helps it adhere better and form a crispy coating during cooking.

Can I make chicken saltimbocca ahead of time?

Chicken saltimbocca is best served fresh, but you can prepare the chicken with prosciutto and sage in advance. Cook the chicken and make the sauce just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Chicken Saltimbocca is a sophisticated yet simple dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home!

More Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Shrimp and Grits
• Barefoot Contessa Steak Bites with Garlic Butter
• Barefoot Contessa Poppy Seed Dressing
• Barefoot Contessa Sirloin Tip Roast
• Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder

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