Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, elegant, yet surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This Chicken Wrapped in Prosciutto recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, a special occasion meal, or even a sophisticated appetizer. This easy recipe delivers big on taste, requiring minimal effort and resulting in a truly delicious dish. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this homemade culinary delight!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 slices prosciutto
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the prosciutto adhere better and ensures even browning.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and rosemary (if using).
- Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
Wrapping the Chicken:
- Lay a slice of prosciutto flat on a clean surface.
- Place a chicken breast in the center of the prosciutto slice.
- Wrap the prosciutto tightly around the chicken, tucking in the ends. You might need to slightly overlap the prosciutto to fully enclose the chicken.
- Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts and prosciutto slices.
Cooking the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the wrapped chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the prosciutto is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
- If you prefer a crispier prosciutto, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve the Chicken Wrapped in Prosciutto immediately with lemon wedges. The bright acidity of the lemon complements the salty prosciutto and savory chicken perfectly. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in the herb mixture for at least 30 minutes before wrapping.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a touch of heat.
- Cheese please: Add a slice of mozzarella or provolone cheese inside before wrapping for a gooey, cheesy delight.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, sage, or basil.
- Make it a sheet pan meal: Roast the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 2-3g
This Chicken Wrapped in Prosciutto recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a delicious, healthy meal that's quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this simple yet sophisticated dish!