Chicken Saltimboca
Chicken Saltimbocca features tender chicken breasts layered with mozzarella, wrapped in ham, coated in seasoned bread crumbs, and baked to golden perfection, offering savory flavors suitable for elegant dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pound chicken breasts between 2 pieces of waxed paper until about 1/4-inch thick.
- On the boned side of each chicken breast, place one slice of mozzarella cheese and a dash of Italian herb seasoning.
- Roll up each chicken breast.
- Dip each rolled-up chicken breast in melted margarine.
- Roll the coated chicken in a mixture of bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Place the prepared chicken breasts in a shallow pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes or until brown and tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on traditional Chicken Saltimboca, consider using prosciutto instead of ham for a richer flavor. You can also substitute fresh mozzarella with a low-fat version or even a dairy-free alternative. To enhance the dish, try adding fresh basil or spinach inside the chicken rolls. If you prefer a crunchier texture, bake on a wire rack placed over the pan to allow air circulation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Saltimboca with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh arugula salad to balance the richness of the dish. This recipe pairs beautifully with Pollo Alla Parmigiana(Chicken Parmesan) or Italian recipes that feature similar ingredients. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, also complements the flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them on a low setting, but be careful not to overcook and dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Saltimboca contains roughly 475 calories, with 23g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (70% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 956mg per serving (42% 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 make Chicken Saltimboca ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken rolls and coat them with breadcrumbs a few hours in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier when cooked.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for mozzarella, provolone or fontina cheese can be great alternatives, offering similar melts and flavors. For a lighter option, consider using part-skim mozzarella or even a vegan cheese if you need a dairy-free choice.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the chicken should be golden brown, and the juices should run clear when pierced with a knife.
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).