Chicken Saltimbocca

Chicken saltimbocca is a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken breast with layers of ham, cheese, and tomatoes. This savory and flavorful recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special meal with your family.

The chicken breast fillets are pounded to create thin and even pieces, which are then topped with slices of boiled ham, Emmenthal cheese, and fresh tomato. A touch of crushed dried sage adds an aromatic note to the dish. The chicken is rolled up, Swiss-roll style, to encase the fillings, creating a delicious and visually appealing presentation.

To add a crispy and golden texture, the rolled chicken is coated in a mixture of fine dried breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley. This coating helps to seal in the flavors and provides a delightful crunch when baked.

When baked to perfection, the chicken saltimbocca becomes juicy and flavorful, with the cheese melting and blending with the ham and tomatoes. The aroma that fills your kitchen will surely whet your appetite.

Chicken saltimbocca can be served as a main course alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables, or it can be sliced and served as an elegant appetizer or party dish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 skinless chicken breast fillets, halved lengthways
• 6 thin slices boiled ham
• 6 slices Emmenthal cheese
• 1 tomato, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon crushed dried sage
• 75g/3oz fine dried breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 50g/2oz butter, melted

PREPARATIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas mark 4.
2. Place the chicken fillets, bottom side up, between two pieces of cling film. Lightly pound each piece with a meat mallet, starting from the center and working outwards. Remove the cling film.
3. On each chicken fillet, place a slice of ham, a slice of Emmenthal cheese, and a few slices of tomato.
4. Lightly sprinkle each fillet with crushed dried sage and roll them up, Swiss-roll style. Press to seal well.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the fine dried breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley.
6. Dip each rolled chicken fillet in the melted butter, ensuring it is coated evenly. Then, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
7. Place the coated chicken fillets in a lightly oiled baking dish.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• When rolling the chicken fillets, make sure to tuck in the fillings tightly to prevent them from falling out during baking.

TIPS:

1. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a thin layer of pesto sauce or Dijon mustard on the chicken fillets before adding the fillings.
2. Serve the chicken saltimbocca with a side of lemon wedges for a refreshing citrus twist.
3. Garnish the baked chicken with additional chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

In conclusion, chicken saltimbocca is a delightful Italian dish that features tender chicken breast rolled with ham, cheese, and tomatoes, then coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture. This flavorful and visually appealing recipe is perfect for a special meal or entertaining guests.

The combination of the savory ham, melted Emmenthal cheese, and juicy tomatoes creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The crushed dried sage adds a subtle aromatic note that enhances the taste of the dish.

Coating the rolled chicken in a mixture of fine dried breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley adds a satisfying crunch and a golden texture. The baked chicken saltimbocca emerges from the oven tender, juicy, and with a beautifully crispy coating.

Whether served as a main course alongside a fresh salad or as an elegant appetizer, chicken saltimbocca is sure to impress. The dish offers a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

So, gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy a taste of Italy with this delectable chicken saltimbocca recipe. The delicious combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and crispy coating will make this dish a standout favorite.