Chicken Breasts With Prosciutto
Juicy chicken breasts are enhanced with prosciutto, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, then baked to perfection. This flavorful dish combines savory, smoky, and herbal notes, making it ideal for a comforting family dinner or special occasion that impresses with its rich taste and elegant presentation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Split the chicken breasts in half or leave whole, remove the bone, and dust with flour.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet; add garlic, brown briefly, then discard.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and brown thoroughly on both sides.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Add prosciutto, rosemary, bay leaf, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet.
- Cook for 3 to 4 minutes to sauté the mushrooms.
- Pour in the white wine and simmer gently for about 1 minute.
- Add the tomato paste mixed with water and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes, basting occasionally to glaze the chicken with sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and rosemary before cooking. If you don't have prosciutto, pancetta or even smoked bacon can work as a substitute. Using fresh herbs can elevate the dish, so feel free to experiment with thyme or sage. Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken breasts with a side of Garlic Rosemary Chicken for a complementary flavor. A fresh salad or roasted vegetables also pairs well, adding a vibrant touch. For a more filling meal, consider serving over a bed of artichoke rice salad or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps retain moisture and prevents the chicken from drying out, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Breasts With Prosciutto contains roughly 461 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1173mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be a great alternative, offering a richer flavor and more moisture. Adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may require a bit longer to cook through compared to chicken breasts. Always ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for dry white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or a mixture of vinegar and water. For a non-alcoholic option, a splash of lemon juice combined with chicken broth can add acidity and depth to the dish without the alcohol.
How can I make this dish more creamy?
To add creaminess, stir in some heavy cream or crème fraîche toward the end of cooking, right before transferring to the baking dish. This will create a rich sauce that complements the chicken and mushrooms beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).