Chicken Breast - Stuffed with Prosciutto & Fontina

By á-96

These stuffed chicken breasts can be assembled and refrigerated for up to three hours before cooking.

*Tip* A slotted spatula is the best tool for turning and moving the chicken. Tongs can damage the delicate golden crust.

Ingredients

• 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (8 to 9 oz. each)
• 4 thin slices prosciutto (2 to 3 oz.)
• 1 cup lightly packed grated Fontina (3 oz.)
• 3/4 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 Tbls Dijon mustard
• 1 1/2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
• 4 Tsp dried sage leaves
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2/3 cup olive oil

Details

Servings 4
Preparation time 20mins
Cooking time 30mins

Preparation

Step 1

If the chicken breasts have tenderloins, remove them. Trim, rinse, and pat the breasts dry.

Make a pocket on the thicker side of each breast. Using a sharp boning or utility knife, cut into the breast about 1/2 inch from one end. Create a pocket, slicing to within about 1/4 inch of the other side.

1. Lay a slice of prosciutto lengthwise inside each pocket. Stuff each pocket with about one-quarter of the Fontina, distributing it evenly throughout the pocket and to the ends. Press on the top of each breast to close the pocket.

2. Line up three wide shallow dishes. Fill the first with the flour. In the second, whisk together the eggs and mustard. In the third, toss the breadcrumbs with the dried sage leaves, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper.

3. Season the breasts generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge one breast well in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the eggs, turning to coat evenly, and then dredge it in the breadcrumbs, pressing to make the crumbs adhere evenly. Gently shake off any excess. Set on a plate and repeat with the other breasts. *Refrigerate for at least 5 minutes and up to 3 hours to let the breading set.* Discard any leftover flour, egg, or crumbs.

4. Heat the oven to 350°F. Heat the olive oil in a heavy 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is very hot, carefully add two of the breasts to the pan and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. If the oil seems to get too hot, reduce the heat to medium. Transfer the breasts to a baking sheet. Repeat with the other two breasts

5. Bake until the chicken and filling reach 165°F on an instant-read thermometer, about 15 minutes. Serve immediately.