Chicken Saltimbocca

Chicken Saltimbocca

INGREDIENTS

1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast cut into 4-ounce pieces

 Salt and pepper

1 tablespoon chopped sage, plus 24 large sage leaves

2 garlic cloves smashed to a paste

1 pinch red pepper flakes, optional

 Olive oil

6 thin slices proscuitto

6 slices fontina cheese (about 4 ounces)

PREPARATION

Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken to flatten a bit. Salt and pepper each piece on both sides and place on a platter. 

Sprinkle with chopped sage, garlic, red pepper flakes (if using) and olive oil. 

Massage in the seasoning to distribute, cover and marinate at room temperature for one hour, or refrigerate for up to several hours.

Heat a wide skillet over medium heat and add 3 tablespoons olive oil. 

When the oil looks wavy, add the sage leaves and let them crisp for about 30 seconds. 

Remove and drain.

Brown the chicken breasts in the oil for about 2 minutes per side, then transfer to a baking dish large enough to fit them in one layer.

Top each piece with 2 sage leaves, a slice of prosciutto and a slice of fontina. 

Grill for 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling. Garnish with remaining sage leaves.