There’s something truly magical about the union of bold flavors and timeless techniques, and few dishes capture this alchemy quite like savory saltimbocca chicken. Imagine tender chicken breasts layered with fragrant sage leaves and wrapped in crispy, smoky beef bacon-a appetizing twist that elevates this classic Italian favorite to new heights. The interplay of herbaceous warmth, savory richness, and textural contrast creates a culinary experience that is both comforting and refined. In this article, we’ll explore how to master the art of saltimbocca with a creative spin, bringing you a dish that’s as impressive on the plate as it is irresistible to the palate. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a curious food lover, get ready to embark on a flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation.
Savory Saltimbocca Chicken with Sage and Crispy Beef Bacon brings the irresistible comfort of Italy’s countryside right to your plate, blending the tender juiciness of chicken with the earthy aroma of fresh sage and the smoky crunch of perfectly rendered beef bacon. This dish honors the classic Roman saltimbocca tradition, elevated with a rich twist that will delight both the eyes and the palate.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 hungry diners
Difficulty Level
Medium – Perfect for home cooks ready to impress
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin (about 6 oz each)
- 12 thin slices beef bacon
- 16 fresh sage leaves, washed and patted dry
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh lemon wedges, for garnish
- Optional: fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Gently pound each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap to about 1/4-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Coat with flour: Lightly dredge each chicken breast in the sifted flour, shaking off excess.This ensures a delicate, crispy crust when sautéed.
- Cook the beef bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat,add the beef bacon slices. Sauté until crisp and browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, reserving the pan drippings.
- Sear the chicken: Add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter to the same skillet with the reserved fat. When shimmering, place the chicken breasts in the pan. Sear for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked through.
- Layer sage and bacon: Remove the chicken briefly. Place 4 sage leaves on each breast, then wrap 3 slices of crispy beef bacon around each piece, securing with toothpicks if needed.
- Finish cooking: Return the wrapped chicken to the skillet.Pour the white wine and chicken broth around the edges and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for another 8-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and flavors meld.
- Reduce the sauce: Carefully remove the chicken and keep warm. Increase heat to medium-high and reduce the sauce until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in remaining butter for a glossy finish.
- Plate and garnish: Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley to brighten the palette and add a pop of color.
Chef’s Notes and Tips for Success
- Choosing beef bacon: Opt for a high-quality, minimally processed beef bacon to achieve deep flavor and crisp texture. Avoid overly fatty varieties which can overpower the delicate balance.
- Sage substitution: Fresh sage is essential for its aromatic earthiness but,if unavailable,substitute with fresh rosemary for a similarly robust herbaceous note.
- Make ahead: You can assemble the chicken with sage and bacon and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before cooking-ideal for prepping in advance for entertaining.
- Chicken thickness: Pounding the chicken evenly ensures even cooking and tender bites. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin and watch out not to tear the meat.
- Sauce adjustment: For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream before serving for a silky finish.
Serving Suggestions
Present your saltimbocca masterpiece atop a bed of creamy polenta or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious pan sauce. A crisp side of sautéed green beans or roasted asparagus complements the richness perfectly.
For a rustic touch,garnish with additional whole sage leaves lightly fried in olive oil,bringing both aroma and crunch. A wedge of lemon on the side offers a vibrant citrus burst that cuts through the savory richness reassuringly.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
For an in-depth dive into classic Italian dishes similar to saltimbocca, don’t miss our Classic Italian recipes Collection.To explore the rich history of saltimbocca and its evolution, visit Serious Eats’ complete guide.
Q&A
Q&A: all About Savory Saltimbocca Chicken with Sage and Crispy Beef bacon
Q1: What exactly is Saltimbocca, and how does it differ when made with chicken?
Saltimbocca, which means “jump in the mouth” in Italian, is a classic Roman dish traditionally prepared with veal. when made with chicken, it maintains the essence of the original-tender meat wrapped with prosciutto and sage-but offers a lighter, more approachable protein. Using chicken makes the dish accessible and quick to cook without sacrificing that signature blend of savory, herbal, and salty flavors.
Q2: Why use beef bacon instead of traditional pork bacon in this recipe?
Beef bacon adds a deeper, beefy richness and a uniquely crispy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the soft chicken and fragrant sage. It’s an appealing option for those who prefer or need to avoid pork and introduces a subtle smoky umami note that elevates the classic saltimbocca experience.
Q3: How does sage enhance the dish’s flavor profile?
Sage is the aromatic backbone of saltimbocca. Its earthy, slightly peppery aroma cuts through the richness of chicken and bacon, imparting a woodsy brightness. When crisped alongside the meat, sage leaves become a crispy, flavorful garnish that adds complexity and visual appeal.
Q4: What’s the secret to achieving perfectly crispy beef bacon without overcooking the chicken?
To balance crispiness and tenderness, first sear the beef bacon in a hot pan until crisp, then remove and set aside. Next,gently cook the chicken in the same pan to absorb those infused flavors without drying out. reintroduce the bacon and sage toward the end to meld all the elements beautifully.This layered cooking approach preserves texture and flavor harmony.
Q5: Can this dish be adapted for busy weeknights or meal prep?
Absolutely! Saltimbocca chicken comes together in about 20 minutes,making it ideal for quick dinners. For meal prep,cook the chicken and bacon fully,then store portions separately or combined with sage leaves. Reheat gently to keep the chicken moist and the bacon crispy-or refresh the bacon in a hot pan to restore its crunch before serving.Q6: What sides pair best with Savory Saltimbocca Chicken with Sage and Crispy Beef Bacon?
Classic companions include buttery polenta, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light lemony arugula salad to cut through the richness. Roasted seasonal vegetables or garlic sautéed spinach also complement the herbal and smoky notes perfectly, creating a balanced, restaurant-quality plate at home.
Q7: Are there any creative twists to try with this recipe?
For a modern twist, try adding a splash of white wine or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the pan sauce for brightness. or experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary alongside sage. For extra indulgence, top with a shaving of Parmesan or a dollop of mascarpone just before serving.
this Q&A offers a flavorful journey into the art and soul of Savory Saltimbocca Chicken with Sage and Crispy Beef bacon-where tradition meets innovation on your plate.
Key Takeaways
In the world of comforting yet sophisticated dishes, Savory Saltimbocca Chicken with Sage and crispy Beef Bacon stands out as a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The tender chicken embraced by fragrant sage and the irresistible crunch of smoky beef bacon creates a culinary experience that’s both familiar and delightfully unexpected. Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or elevate a weeknight dinner, this dish offers a perfect balance of rustic charm and refined taste.So next time you crave a meal that sings with savory notes and satisfying crispness, let Saltimbocca Chicken be your go-to inspiration in the kitchen.
