Upper thighs wrapped in prosciutto crudo

Upper chicken thighs wrapped in prosciutto crudo – a delicious and flavorful recipe

If you are looking for a refined yet easy-to-prepare recipe, upper chicken thighs wrapped in prosciutto crudo are the perfect choice. They combine the juiciness of chicken with the intense and salty flavor of prosciutto, resulting in a dish that will impress even the most discerning taste buds. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted according to your preferences.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 pieces of upper chicken thighs (preferably with bone and skin for better flavor)
- 4 slices of prosciutto crudo (you can also use ham, but prosciutto offers a more refined flavor)
- Salt, pepper, vegeta (or other preferred spices)
- Olive oil (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- 1 cup of white wine (choose a quality wine that you enjoy drinking)
- Water (about 200-300 ml)

Step 1: Preparing the thighs

Start by washing the chicken thighs well under a stream of cold water. This step is essential to ensure that you remove any impurities. After washing them, dry them with a kitchen towel. Check each piece and trim excess fat to achieve a healthier dish. Season the thighs with salt, pepper, and vegeta for a more intense flavor. If desired, you can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme, which pair wonderfully with chicken.

Step 2: Wrapping in prosciutto

Lay the slices of prosciutto on a tray or cutting board. Take each piece of chicken thigh and wrap it with a slice of prosciutto, making sure it is evenly covered. This step not only gives the chicken a delicious taste but also protects it from excessive drying during cooking. Prosciutto will add a salty and savory note, making each bite an unforgettable experience.

Step 3: Cooking the thighs

Heat the olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the thighs wrapped in prosciutto. Cook them for 5-7 minutes on each side until the prosciutto becomes crispy and the chicken browns nicely. Carefully turn the thighs to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 4: Adding the liquid

After the thighs are browned, add water to the skillet to partially cover the thighs. This step will help maintain the juiciness of the meat. Then, pour in the white wine – its aroma will blend perfectly with the prosciutto and chicken, creating a delicious sauce. If you prefer a more pronounced wine flavor, you can add more wine and less water.

Step 5: Final cooking

Cover the skillet with a lid and let the thighs simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. During this time, the flavors will intensify, and the meat will become extremely tender. After 20 minutes, check if they are fully cooked – the meat should easily pull away from the bone.

Step 6: Serving

Once the thighs are ready, remove them from the skillet and place them on a platter. You can serve them with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. If you want to add a touch of elegance, you can drizzle a bit of the remaining sauce from the skillet over the thighs for extra flavor.

Helpful tips:
- Choose quality prosciutto, as it will significantly influence the final taste of the dish.
- You can experiment with different types of white wine; a sweeter wine will add a pleasant contrasting note.
- If you enjoy cooking for more people, you can easily double the quantities.

Nutritional benefits:
Upper chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein and contain essential nutrients such as vitamin B6, which helps maintain a healthy nervous system. Prosciutto adds protein and an intense flavor, but it’s important to consume it in moderation due to its sodium content.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but make sure the breast is well-hydrated, as it can dry out faster than thighs.
2. What sides pair best?
Steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a seasonal salad are excellent choices.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the thighs and store them in the fridge, and when you want to serve them, you can easily reheat them.

Possible variations:
If you want a more sophisticated version, you can add slices of goat cheese or mozzarella between the chicken and prosciutto for extra creaminess. You can also add olives or sun-dried tomatoes in oil to the skillet for a Mediterranean flavor.

In conclusion, upper chicken thighs wrapped in prosciutto crudo are an ideal choice for a special dinner or a family weekend meal. With each bite, you will feel the joy of having cooked a delicious dish that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Happy cooking!