This Chicken with Prosciutto and Fresh Sage recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Deceptively simple to prepare, yet boasting a flavor profile worthy of the finest Italian restaurants, this dish is a delightful twist on the classic chicken saltimbocca. Imagine perfectly sautéed chicken cutlets, tender and juicy, generously topped with aromatic fresh sage and savory, delicate prosciutto. Each bite is complemented by a subtly sweet and deeply flavorful Marsala mushroom sauce, creating a harmonious symphony of tastes that truly “jumps in the mouth,” as the Italian name suggests. This recipe is designed to impress your family and friends, making any meal feel like a special occasion.

Why This Chicken and Prosciutto Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite
There’s an undeniable joy in savoring the first bite of this chicken and prosciutto masterpiece. It’s my cherished adaptation of traditional chicken saltimbocca, a dish whose name literally means “jumps in the mouth” in Italian. This perfectly encapsulates the explosive burst of flavor you’ll experience. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create something truly extraordinary.
I recently prepared this chicken dish for a discerning client, and its success was immediate and overwhelming. He returned for not just a second, but a third helping, a clear indication of its irresistible appeal. This is more than just a recipe; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers restaurant-quality taste directly to your home kitchen. What truly sets it apart is its remarkable efficiency – a gourmet meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something special, or for those impromptu dinner parties where you want to impress without the stress. For entertaining guests or enjoying a romantic date night at home, this chicken saltimbocca-style dish consistently hits all the right notes, earning rave reviews every time.
Beyond its incredible taste and quick preparation, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. The crispy, savory prosciutto, the earthy sage, the tender chicken, and the rich, velvety Marsala mushroom sauce all come together to create a culinary experience that feels both luxurious and comforting. It’s the kind of dish that builds confidence in the kitchen and sparks joy at the dinner table, proving that elegant meals don’t require hours of effort or complex techniques.
Essential Ingredients for an Unforgettable Meal
One of the beauties of this Chicken with Prosciutto and Fresh Sage recipe is its surprisingly short and accessible ingredient list. Each component plays a vital role in building the dish’s signature flavor profile. Below, you’ll find the key ingredients; a detailed list with specific quantities can be found in the complete recipe card further down.

- Boneless and Skinless Chicken Breasts: The lean protein base of our dish. Pounding them thin ensures quick and even cooking, resulting in incredibly tender cutlets.
- Fresh Sage: This aromatic herb is non-negotiable for authentic saltimbocca flavor. Its earthy, peppery notes perfectly complement the richness of the chicken and prosciutto.
- Prosciutto: Thinly sliced, cured Italian ham provides a salty, savory layer that crisps beautifully when seared, adding depth and texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: Used for dredging the chicken, it helps create a golden-brown crust and serves as a thickening agent for our luscious Marsala sauce.
- Kosher Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a fruity note and ensures the chicken cooks evenly without sticking.
- Salted Butter: Contributes richness and a golden color to both the chicken and the sauce, finishing the sauce with a silky texture.
- Button Mushrooms: These humble mushrooms bring an essential earthy, umami depth to the sauce, transforming it into something truly special.
- Dry Marsala Wine: The cornerstone of our savory-sweet sauce. Marsala provides a distinctive nutty, caramelized flavor that deglazes the pan and builds a rich base.
- Reduced Sodium Chicken Stock: Forms the liquid base of the sauce, adding body and savory notes without overpowering the Marsala.
Mastering the Art of Chicken Saltimbocca-Style: A Detailed Guide
Achieving restaurant-quality results at home is easier than you think with this recipe. The key lies in a few simple yet crucial steps, starting with the preparation of your chicken. Thin chicken cutlets are paramount for this dish, as they cook rapidly and absorb flavors beautifully. I recommend starting with whole boneless, skinless chicken breasts and carefully slicing each horizontally to create two thinner cutlets. Once sliced, place these cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap. This is where your meat mallet (or a sturdy rolling pin) comes in handy. Gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about one-quarter inch. This not only tenderizes the meat but also ensures uniform cooking and creates the perfect canvas for our toppings.

With your chicken perfectly thinned, the next step is to elevate its flavor. Each cutlet is then adorned with fresh sage leaves and a tender slice of subtly sweet and salty prosciutto. This layering is what defines saltimbocca, infusing the chicken with rich, savory notes and a fragrant herbal essence. After a quick dredge in seasoned all-purpose flour, the chicken is ready for its sizzle in the pan. I always initiate the sautéing process by placing the prosciutto side down first. This allows some of the prosciutto’s delicate fat to render and caramelize, enriching the butter and olive oil in the pan and deeply flavoring the chicken from the outset. Sauté until each side is beautifully golden brown, achieving a perfect crispy exterior while keeping the chicken wonderfully tender within.

Once the chicken is cooked through and resting, covered, to keep warm, it’s time to build the exquisite Marsala mushroom sauce in the very same pan. This utilizes all the delicious fond – the browned bits and flavorful drippings left behind – adding immense depth to the sauce. Add a knob of butter and then introduce the quartered button mushrooms. Sauté them until they begin to soften and develop a lovely golden hue on their edges. These mushrooms aren’t just a textural addition; they contribute a profound earthiness that perfectly balances the rich chicken and savory prosciutto. The magic truly begins as the sauce is created right alongside these browned mushrooms.

To deglaze the pan, pour in the dry Marsala wine. As it bubbles, use a wooden spoon to gently scrape up all those flavorful brown bits from the bottom – this is where much of the sauce’s character originates. Allow the Marsala to cook down slightly, concentrating its rich, nutty aroma. To achieve the perfect consistency, sprinkle in a bit of the reserved seasoned flour, stirring constantly. This acts as a thickener, creating a smooth, unctuous base for our sauce. Finally, pour in the reduced sodium chicken stock and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes. As it thickens, stir in the remaining pat of butter off the heat. This final touch adds an incredible sheen and a luxurious, silky finish to the sauce, making it utterly irresistible.

The anticipation builds with every step, and I genuinely cannot wait for you to experience the incredible flavors of this chicken with prosciutto, fresh sage, and Marsala mushroom sauce. It’s a dish that proves elegant dining is entirely achievable in your own home with just a little passion and a few key techniques.
Suggestions, Tips, and Variations for Culinary Success
To ensure your Chicken with Prosciutto and Fresh Sage is nothing short of perfect, and to offer ways to tailor it to your preferences, consider these helpful suggestions and tips:
- Expediting Prep Time: For ultimate convenience, look for pre-sliced, thinly cut chicken cutlets at your local grocery store. While they save time, you might still need to give them a gentle pound to achieve an even thickness of approximately ¼ inch, ensuring consistent cooking.
- Wine Substitutions: If dry Marsala wine isn’t available or preferred, you have excellent alternatives. Madeira wine offers a similar rich, nutty flavor profile. Alternatively, a dry white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can be used. If opting for white wine, I recommend adding a heaping teaspoon of brown sugar to the sauce. This helps to mimic the characteristic sweetness and depth that Marsala naturally brings to the dish.
- Non-Alcoholic Option: For those who prefer to cook without alcohol, a fantastic non-alcoholic substitute for Marsala wine can be created. Combine ¼ cup of white grape juice with 1 tablespoon of sherry vinegar and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. This blend provides a similar sweet, acidic, and complex note that will beautifully complement the mushrooms and chicken.
- Enhancing Herb Flavors: While fresh sage is traditional and highly recommended, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs. A sprig of fresh rosemary or a few sprigs of thyme can introduce a different aromatic dimension to the dish. Add them to the pan during the mushroom sauté for infusion.
- Adding a Cheesy Layer: For an extra touch of decadence, consider adding a thin slice of provolone or fresh mozzarella over the prosciutto on the chicken cutlets before sautéing, or briefly melt it on top at the very end of cooking.
- Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional value and texture of the sauce by incorporating additional vegetables. Fresh spinach wilted into the sauce at the very end, or a handful of sun-dried tomatoes added with the Marsala, can offer vibrant colors and complementary flavors.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This elegant chicken dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, allowing you to create a complete and satisfying meal. For a classic Italian experience, serve it alongside a generous helping of creamy risotto or a simple pasta dish tossed in butter and Parmesan. Polenta, whether creamy or grilled, also makes an excellent accompaniment, soaking up the exquisite Marsala mushroom sauce beautifully. For lighter options, consider steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a fresh, crisp side salad. A loaf of crusty bread is always a welcome addition to sop up every last drop of the delectable sauce. When it comes to wine pairings, a dry Marsala or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc would complement the flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Should you be lucky enough to have leftovers, this Chicken with Prosciutto and Fresh Sage reheats surprisingly well. Store any remaining chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if the sauce appears too thick. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the stovetop method often yields better results, helping to retain the tenderness of the chicken and the consistency of the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some common questions about making this delightful Chicken with Prosciutto and Fresh Sage:
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? While best served fresh, you can prep components in advance. Pound the chicken, top with sage and prosciutto, and dredge in flour, then store covered in the refrigerator for up to a day. The sauce can be made an hour or two ahead and gently reheated.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? As written, the recipe uses all-purpose flour. To make it gluten-free, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Ensure your chicken stock is also gluten-free.
- What kind of Marsala wine should I use? Always opt for a dry Marsala wine for savory cooking. Sweet Marsala is typically used for desserts and will alter the flavor profile significantly.
- Can I use dried sage instead of fresh? Fresh sage is highly recommended for its vibrant aroma and flavor. If you must use dried, use about one-third of the amount specified for fresh, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Add it to the sauce with the mushrooms.
More Delicious Chicken Recipes to Explore
If you love the ease and gourmet taste of this dish, you’ll surely enjoy these other fantastic chicken recipes that promise to rival any restaurant creation:
- Zesty Lemon Chicken Recipe
- Butter Sautéed Chicken Breast with Fresh Tomato Sauce
- Delightful Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
Your Feedback Makes a Difference!
I genuinely hope you take the opportunity to try this delicious chicken with prosciutto, fresh sage, and Marsala mushroom sauce recipe. Your culinary adventures are truly inspiring to me! If you decide to make it, I would be thrilled to hear about your experience.
Please take a moment to leave a comment below and share your thoughts. A recipe rating is also incredibly helpful for other home cooks exploring new dishes. I personally read and do my best to respond to every single comment. And don’t forget to capture a photo of your masterpiece to post on Instagram! Tag @amycaseycooks, and I’ll be sure to share your beautiful creations on my Insta stories. It brings me so much joy to see your culinary interpretations!
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Chicken with Prosciutto, Fresh Sage and Marsala Mushroom Sauce Recipe
Chicken with Prosciutto, Fresh Sage and Marsala Mushroom Sauce
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15 minutes
15 minutes
30 minutes
4 servings
494kcal
Amy Casey
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast, about 6 ounces each
- 20 fresh sage leaves
- 8 slices prosciutto
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- kosher salt
- pepper
- 4 tablespoons salted butter divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 10 ounces button mushrooms cut in quarters
- ⅓ cup dry marsala wine
- 1 cup reduced sodium chicken stock
Instructions
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Slice each chicken breast horizontally into 2 cutlets. Place the cutlets between sheets of plastic wrap. Pound with a meat mallet until about ¼ inch thick.
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Top each chicken cutlet with 1 or 2 sage leaves, depending on their size. Top with a slice of prosciutto, folding if necessary so it covers the top of the cutlet. Press down lightly.
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Place the flour in a shallow dish and season with salt and pepper. Lightly dredge the chicken in the flour. Set aside the chicken. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the seasoned flour.
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Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon each of butter and olive oil. When the butter has melted and begins to foam, sauté the chicken cutlets in batches with the prosciutto side down first. Add more olive oil if the pan gets dry. Sauté the chicken for about 2 to 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil.
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In the same pan add and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the mushrooms and sauté until just beginning to brown on the edges. Add the marsala wine. Scrape up any brown bits on the bottom of the pan. Cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of the reserved flour, stir and cook for 1 minute.
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Add the chicken stock. Stir and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken the sauce.
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Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter.
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Pour the sauce over the sautéed chicken and sprinkle with chopped sage.
Video
Notes
- To speed up the prep for chicken with prosciutto, pick up thinly sliced chicken cutlets at the grocery store. You may need to pound them to make them an even thickness.
- Substitute madeira or white wine for the marsala. If using white wine, try Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc with a heaping teaspoon of brown sugar to match the sweetness of the marsala.
- For a non-alcoholic substitute for the marsala use ¼ cup white grape juice with 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
Nutrition
Serving: 2pieces for chicken with sauce
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Calories: 494kcal
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Carbohydrates: 12.7g
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Protein: 51.7g
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Fat: 25.6g
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Saturated Fat: 10g
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Cholesterol: 153mg
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Sodium: 1270mg
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Fiber: 1.9g
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Sugar: 1.4g
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