This Jamie Oliver chicken wrapped in prosciutto recipe is a simple yet elegant way to elevate your chicken dinner. The salty, crispy prosciutto adds a beautiful texture and flavor that perfectly complements the juicy, tender chicken inside. It’s a foolproof dish that works well for weeknight meals or impressing guests.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 8 slices of prosciutto (thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced, optional for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the prosciutto stick and crisps up better.
- Season each chicken breast lightly with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder on all sides.
- Lay two slices of prosciutto on a clean surface, slightly overlapping to form a rectangle large enough to wrap one chicken breast.
- Place one chicken breast at the edge of the prosciutto and roll it tightly so the prosciutto completely wraps the chicken. Repeat with remaining breasts and prosciutto.
- Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the wrapped chicken breasts, seam side down, and sear for 2-3 minutes until the prosciutto starts to crisp and brown.
- Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 2 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the prosciutto is crisp.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Tips
- Substitution: If you don’t have prosciutto, thin slices of pancetta or streaky bacon work well, though they may be a bit fattier.
- Butterfly for even cooking: If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider butterflying them before wrapping to ensure they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: When searing, give each wrapped chicken breast space to crisp up properly without steaming.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides that balance the richness of the prosciutto. Try serving it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or carrots, or creamy mashed potatoes. A light pasta tossed with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs also complements the flavors well. For a low-carb option, steamed broccoli or a cauliflower mash works perfectly.
Variations
To add more flavor layers, consider spreading a thin layer of pesto or herbed cream cheese on the chicken breasts before wrapping them in prosciutto. You can also stuff the chicken with fresh spinach leaves or sun-dried tomatoes for extra moisture and taste. For a spicy twist, sprinkle some chili flakes or smoked paprika into the seasoning mix. If you prefer a milder option, swap the oregano for fresh basil or thyme.
Storage and Reheating
Store cooked chicken wrapped in prosciutto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a low oven temperature (around 300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes to help the prosciutto regain some crispness without drying out the chicken. Alternatively, reheat gently in a nonstick skillet over low heat, turning occasionally. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the prosciutto soggy and the chicken rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and will be even juicier. Adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs tend to take a bit longer—aim for 20-25 minutes in the oven after searing.
- Do I need to season the chicken if the prosciutto is salty?
- Prosciutto is salty, so use salt sparingly on the chicken to avoid over-seasoning. Pepper and herbs add flavor without extra salt.
- What is the best way to check if the chicken is cooked?
- Use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption according to USDA guidelines.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- You can assemble the chicken wrapped in prosciutto and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes it convenient for meal prep or entertaining.
- Why does the prosciutto sometimes get soggy?
- Soggy prosciutto usually results from too much moisture or overcrowding the pan during searing. Make sure chicken is dry before wrapping and give pieces enough space to crisp up properly.
- Is prosciutto the same as regular ham?
- Prosciutto is a dry-cured Italian ham that is thinly sliced and has a delicate, salty flavor and silky texture. It differs from cooked or cured hams like deli ham, making it ideal for wrapping chicken.
This Jamie Oliver chicken wrapped in prosciutto recipe is straightforward yet impressive, combining simple ingredients to create a dish that is juicy, flavorful, and visually appealing. With a few easy steps and some helpful tips, you can master this classic preparation and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home any night of the week.
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