Pesto Chicken Saltimbocca with Burst Tomatoes and Burrata

Pesto Chicken Saltimbocca with Burst Tomatoes and Burrata is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. This recipe combines the traditional elements of saltimbocca with the fresh, vibrant flavors of pesto, juicy burst tomatoes, and the creamy goodness of burrata cheese. It’s a dish that promises to impress and satisfy with its rich combination of textures and flavors.

What is Chicken Saltimbocca?

Saltimbocca is an Italian dish that typically consists of veal, prosciutto, and sage, cooked in a pan and served with a savory sauce. The name “saltimbocca” translates to “jumps in the mouth,” which is a perfect description of the flavor explosion this dish delivers. In our version, we’re swapping veal for chicken and adding a few extra touches to make it even more delicious.

The Origin of Saltimbocca

Saltimbocca is believed to have originated in the city of Brescia in northern Italy. It has since become a popular dish throughout Italy and beyond, known for its simple yet sophisticated flavors. The combination of savory prosciutto and tender meat, often complemented by a light sauce, makes it a beloved dish in Italian cuisine.

Why Pesto Elevates This Dish

Pesto, with its bright and aromatic flavors, adds a refreshing twist to the traditional saltimbocca. The blend of basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil creates a rich, green sauce that complements the savory prosciutto and chicken perfectly. Pesto not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful color contrast to the dish.

Burst Tomatoes: A Flavorful Addition

Burst tomatoes are cooked until they pop open, releasing their sweet and tangy juices. These tomatoes add a vibrant, fresh element to the dish, balancing the richness of the prosciutto and the creaminess of the burrata. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite an experience.

The Creaminess of Burrata

Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. The outer shell is solid mozzarella, while the inside contains stracciatella and cream, giving it an unusual, soft texture. Burrata adds a luxurious creaminess to the dish, making it even more indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients Needed

Chicken Breasts

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the base of this dish. They are tender and cook quickly, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Prosciutto

Thin slices of prosciutto are wrapped around the chicken, adding a salty, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the pesto and burrata.

Pesto Sauce

Homemade or store-bought pesto works well for this recipe. The key is to use a high-quality pesto with fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are ideal for bursting, as they are small and sweet. They add a pop of color and a burst of juicy flavor to the dish.

Burrata Cheese

Fresh burrata cheese is the crowning glory of this dish. Its creamy interior and soft exterior provide a luxurious texture that complements the other ingredients.

Fresh Basil

Fresh basil leaves add a final touch of freshness and aroma to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Olive Oil

A good quality olive oil is essential for cooking the chicken and bursting the tomatoes, adding a rich, fruity flavor.

Garlic

Fresh garlic cloves add a depth of flavor to the dish, enhancing the savory notes of the chicken and prosciutto.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Pound the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures they cook evenly.
2. Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Remember, the prosciutto adds saltiness, so don’t overdo it.

Assembling the Saltimbocca

1. Spread Pesto: Spread a generous layer of pesto on one side of each chicken breast.
2. Wrap with Prosciutto: Lay a slice of prosciutto on top of the pesto, pressing it down gently so it adheres to the chicken.
3. Secure with Toothpicks: If needed, secure the prosciutto with toothpicks to keep it in place during cooking.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet, prosciutto side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the prosciutto is crispy.
3. Remove and Keep Warm: Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Bursting the Tomatoes

1. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to burst and release their juices.
3. Season: Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Bringing It All Together

1. Return Chicken to Skillet: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the burst tomatoes.
2. Add Burrata: Tear the burrata into pieces and scatter over the chicken and tomatoes.
3. Garnish with Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Pesto Chicken Saltimbocca with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables would also pair well with this dish. For a complete Italian experience, consider serving with a glass of crisp white wine.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Saltimbocca

• Even Thickness: Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
• High-Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality prosciutto, pesto, and burrata for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.

Variations to Try

Vegetarian Option

Swap the chicken for thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist on this dish.

Different Cheeses

Try using mozzarella, ricotta, or goat cheese in place of burrata for a different flavor and texture.

Alternate Herbs

Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Health Benefits of This Dish

This dish is rich in protein from the chicken and burrata. The pesto provides healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, while the tomatoes add vitamins and antioxidants. It’s a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Wine Pairings

Pair this dish with a crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity in the wine will complement the richness of the prosciutto and burrata, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and wrap it with prosciutto a few hours ahead. Keep it refrigerated until ready to cook.
2. What can I use instead of prosciutto? You can use thinly sliced ham or pancetta as a substitute for prosciutto.
3. Is there a vegan version of this dish? Yes, you can use a plant-based pesto, vegan cheese, and substitute the chicken with tofu or a meat alternative.
4. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
5. Can I freeze this dish? It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken (without burrata) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before adding fresh burrata.

Conclusion

Pesto Chicken Saltimbocca with Burst Tomatoes and Burrata is a delightful fusion of classic Italian flavors and modern twists. The combination of tender chicken, savory prosciutto, aromatic pesto, juicy burst tomatoes, and creamy burrata creates a dish that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Yield: 6

Pesto Chicken Saltimbocca with Burst Tomatoes and Burrata

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Pesto Chicken Saltimbocca with Burst Tomatoes and Burrata is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. This recipe combines the traditional elements of saltimbocca with the fresh, vibrant flavors of pesto, juicy burst tomatoes, and the creamy goodness of burrata cheese. It’s a dish that promises to impress and satisfy with its rich combination of textures and flavors.

Prep Time 25 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 chicken cutlets
• 1/3 cup basil pesto
• 8 thin slices of prosciutto
• 1 1/2 cups Panko bread crumbs
• 2/3 cup grated parmesan
• 2 balls (8 ounces) burrata cheese, torn into pieces
• basil, for serving
• TOMATOES:
• 3 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for cooking
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• zest of 1 lemon
• chili flakes
• kosher salt and black pepper
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons honey

Instructions

1. In a bowl, toss together the chicken and pesto, coating the chicken fully in pesto. Combine the Panko and parmesan in a separate shallow bowl.

2. Working with 1 cutlet at a time, press 2 basil leaves on top of each cutlet. Wrap 2 pieces of prosciutto around each cutlet to secure the basil. The oils from the pesto should moisten the prosciutto, if not drizzle lightly with olive oil. Dredge through the Panko, pressing to adhere. Place the chicken on a plate.

3. To make the tomatoes. In a large skillet, over high heat, combine the olive oil, 2 cups tomatoes, shallots, garlic, thyme, lemon zest, and a pinch each of chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until the tomatoes burst about, 10 minutes. Turn the heat off. Halve the remaining tomatoes and stir them in with the vinegar and honey.

4. Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken and cook until golden brown, 3-4 minutes. Cook until golden brown, 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and season with salt.

5. Serve the chicken warm topped with torn burrata, tomatoes, and fresh basil.

Nutrition Information:

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 617