Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce is a decadent, savory dish that combines tender, pan-seared chicken with a rich, velvety sauce made from Irish whiskey, cream, and aromatics. It’s bold, comforting, and perfect for special occasions or when you want a cozy dinner with a gourmet twist. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every drop.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)salt and pepperolive oil or buttergarlic (minced)shallots or onionIrish whiskeychicken brothheavy creamDijon mustardthyme (fresh or dried)parsley (chopped, for garnish)

directions

Season chicken with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove and set aside.

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic and shallots for 1–2 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Carefully add Irish whiskey to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Stir in chicken broth, cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until sauce thickens.

Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes.

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add mushrooms or leeks for a richer flavor.

Use Irish cream liqueur instead of whiskey for a sweeter twist.

Swap Dijon for whole grain mustard for added texture.

Add a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat.

Serve over pasta for a comforting, creamy dish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating.Not recommended for freezing due to the dairy content.

FAQs

Can I use a different whiskey?

Yes, but an Irish whiskey like Jameson is ideal for authentic flavor.

Is this dish very boozy?

The alcohol cooks off, leaving a warm, subtle depth—not overpowering.

Can I use half-and-half instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner—reduce it a bit longer to thicken.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Try using coconut cream, but the flavor will differ from the traditional version.

What sides go best with this?

Mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or crusty bread work beautifully.

Can I prep this ahead?

Yes, sear the chicken and prep the sauce, then combine and reheat gently before serving.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but adjust cooking time and ensure it’s cooked through.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry for extra thickness.

What herbs pair well?

Fresh thyme, parsley, and chives all complement the dish.

Can I add cheese?

A bit of grated Irish cheddar can add richness, but it’s optional.

Conclusion

Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce is a luxurious, flavorful dish that blends rustic charm with elegant taste. With a silky, whiskey-kissed cream sauce and juicy chicken, it’s a meal made to impress—or simply to treat yourself. Whether for St. Patrick’s Day or any cozy night in, this recipe brings Irish warmth to your table.