Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce

Name: Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup Irish whiskey; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; Salt and black pepper to taste; Olive oil

Published: December 16, 2025

by Ezra

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of Irish whiskey and creamy ingredients creates a deliciously rich sauce that tantalizes the taste buds.
Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking, you can have this delightful dish ready in no time.
Versatile Pairings: Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that suits any palate.
Perfect for Any Occasion: This recipe is ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and more festive gatherings.
Comforting Dish: Enjoy the warmth and richness that makes this dish feel like a hug in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To create this mouthwatering Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools. These will streamline your cooking process and enhance your culinary experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of the chicken breasts while providing ample room for sautéing vegetables.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your whiskey cream sauce.
Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for finely chopping onions and garlic, which enhances their flavor when cooked.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

1/4 cup Irish whiskey
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter

For Garnish

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon chives, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This step ensures that your chicken is flavorful from the start.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts:
1. Cook for 6–7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the butter:
1. Let it melt before adding the chopped onion and minced garlic.
2. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Flambé with Whiskey

Pour the Irish whiskey into the skillet:
1. Carefully ignite it using a long match or lighter to flambé, allowing the alcohol to cook off (this step is optional but adds depth).

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Once the whiskey has reduced slightly:
1. Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and chicken broth.
2. Bring to a simmer while stirring continuously until thickened.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return cooked chicken breasts to the skillet:
1. Spoon sauce over them.
2. Let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb all flavors.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and chives before serving. Pair it with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal!

How to Serve Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce

Serving Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce is an opportunity to create a delightful dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

Pair with Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic choice, complementing the sauce and providing a comforting base.

Serve with Crusty Bread

A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious whiskey cream sauce.

Add Steamed Vegetables

Bright, steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli add color and nutrition to your plate while balancing the richness of the dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Chopped parsley and chives not only add freshness but also make the dish visually appealing.

Enjoy with a Side Salad

A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to this creamy meal.

Accompany with Rice

Fluffy rice absorbs the sauce well, making it a satisfying addition alongside the chicken.

How to Perfect Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce

Creating the perfect Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Use quality ingredients: High-quality chicken and fresh herbs will significantly enhance the flavor of your sauce.
Don’t skip the flambé: Flambéing the whiskey adds depth to the sauce by cooking off harsh alcohol flavors.
Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; adjusting salt and pepper can make all the difference in flavor.
Let it simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer ensures it thickens properly and melds all flavors together.
Rest before serving: Letting the chicken rest in the sauce for a few minutes allows it to soak in more flavor.
Experiment with spices: Adding spices like paprika or thyme can add complexity to your sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these side dishes that pair excellently with Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce. Each complements the main dish beautifully.

Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the whiskey cream sauce, garlic bread adds a savory touch.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer a delightful crunch alongside creamy chicken.
Colcannon: This traditional Irish dish combines mashed potatoes and cabbage, enhancing your meal’s authenticity.
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the chicken.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a healthy grain option that pairs well with creamy dishes.
Braised Cabbage: Sweet and tender braised cabbage offers an earthy side that complements both flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking this dish can be straightforward, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

Failing to season properly: Not seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides generously for a better taste.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s juicy and tender.
Skipping the flambé: Igniting the whiskey is optional but adds depth to the flavor. If you choose not to flambé, let the whiskey simmer to evaporate some alcohol before adding cream.
Not letting the sauce thicken: Rushing the sauce process can result in a watery consistency. Allow it to simmer until it thickens to create that luxurious texture.
Neglecting garnishes: Garnishing with fresh parsley and chives enhances both the appearance and flavor of your Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce. Don’t skip this final touch!

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Ensure the chicken cools down before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce

Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed, stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce gluten-free?

You can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Always check labels for hidden gluten ingredients.

Can I use other types of alcohol instead of whiskey?

Yes! You may substitute whiskey with brandy or even white wine for different flavor profiles while making Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce.

What sides pair well with Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables that complement its creamy sauce.

How spicy is Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce?

The recipe is not spicy; it has a comforting creamy flavor. If you prefer some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, whether by adjusting the spices or pairing it with your favorite sides. Try this recipe today and impress your family and friends!

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