There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty chicken dinner, and this Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce is no exception.
Tender chicken breasts are seared until golden, then simmered in a silky sauce made with Irish whiskey, garlic, onion, cream, and broth. The result is a dish that’s rich, savory, and just a little indulgent — perfect for cozy evenings or a special dinner with friends.
This recipe combines simple ingredients with bold flavors, making it approachable for weeknights yet impressive enough to serve for entertaining. With a velvety sauce that begs to be mopped up with mashed potatoes or crusty bread, this is a true comfort food classic with a touch of Irish flair.
My Opinion
The first time I made this dish, I was blown away by how the whiskey transformed the sauce. It doesn’t overpower the dish, but instead adds this warm, slightly sweet depth that pairs beautifully with the richness of the cream.
The chicken turned out juicy and tender, and the sauce alone was so good I wanted to eat it by the spoonful.
What I love most is how versatile it is — it feels fancy enough for a dinner party, yet it’s simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight. I also appreciate that it reheats really well, so I often make extra and enjoy it the next day.
Honestly, this is one of those recipes that makes you feel like you’re cooking restaurant-quality food right in your own kitchen, with minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥃 Rich Irish whiskey flavor – Adds warmth and complexity without being overpowering.
- 🍗 Juicy chicken breasts – Perfectly seared and simmered until tender.
- 🧄 Creamy, garlicky sauce – A luscious blend of cream, onion, and garlic.
- 🥔 Perfect pairing – Goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
- ⏱️ Quick and weeknight-friendly – Ready in about 35–40 minutes.
- 🌿 Easily customizable – Add mushrooms, spinach, or a splash of lemon for variety.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plate and foil (to rest chicken while sauce cooks)
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Irish whiskey (Jameson recommended)
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream (full-fat for best flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. - Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add chicken breasts and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet, place on a plate, and cover lightly with foil to keep warm. - Cook the aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds, until fragrant. - Deglaze with whiskey
Carefully pour in the whiskey. Stir and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly and cook off the alcohol. - Build the sauce
Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. - Add the cream
Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. - Return the chicken
Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, turning them to coat in the sauce. Let them warm through for 2–3 minutes. - Finish and serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Not recommended for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate.
Expert Tips
- ✅ Choose a good whiskey – A smooth Irish whiskey like Jameson gives the best flavor.
- ✅ Don’t rush the simmer – Letting the sauce reduce slightly deepens the flavor.
- ✅ Use chicken thighs if preferred – They’ll add extra juiciness.
- ✅ Add-ins for variety – Mushrooms, spinach, or even bacon make great additions.
- ✅ Balance the richness – A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner.
- Pair with buttered egg noodles or rice for a comforting meal.
- Add a side of roasted carrots or green beans for freshness.
- Don’t forget crusty bread — you’ll want it to mop up every drop of that sauce!