Name: How to Make the Best Irish Chicken with Whiskey Cream Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 small shallot, finely diced; 1/3 cup Irish whiskey (such as Jameson); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Fresh parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe

Tired of serving the same bland chicken dishes that leave your family pushing food around their plates? Irish Chicken with Whiskey Cream Sauce is the answer to your dinnertime dilemmas.

This restaurant-quality dish transforms ordinary chicken into a luxurious culinary experience with a velvety sauce that perfectly balances rich creaminess with subtle depth.

As part of the Cooks Foody team, Elizabeth has perfected this recipe through countless iterations in her Austin kitchen, creating a foolproof method that delivers exceptional results every time. In this guide, we’ll walk you through selecting the perfect chicken cuts, mastering the signature sauce, and pairing it with complementary sides for a complete Irish-inspired feast.

Why This Irish Chicken with Whiskey Cream Sauce Recipe Works

● Uses affordable boneless chicken that’s readily available in any grocery store
● Delivers maximum flavor with minimal preparation time
● Perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions
● Creates a restaurant-quality meal without complicated techniques
● Features a versatile sauce that complements multiple side dishes

Choosing the Right Chicken for Irish Whiskey Cream Sauce

Best Cuts for This Irish Chicken Recipe

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work beautifully as they provide a neutral canvas for the flavorful sauce. However, chicken thighs offer more natural juiciness and forgiveness during cooking, making them an excellent option for beginners. Either cut transforms magnificently in this Irish chicken preparation.

Buying Tips

Look for chicken with a pinkish color and no gray spots. Organic or free-range chicken typically provides better flavor for your Irish chicken dish. If possible, buy chicken of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.

Substitutions

Turkey cutlets can replace chicken for a twist on this Irish whiskey cream sauce recipe. For a vegetarian version, substitute firm tofu or mushroom caps, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

Ingredients & Prep for Irish Chicken with Whiskey Cream Sauce

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Chicken Prep Essentials

Begin by patting the chicken completely dry with paper towels before seasoning. This crucial step ensures proper browning and caramelization. For even thickness, consider gently pounding thicker parts of the breast with a meat mallet.

Sauce Components

1 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons Irish whiskey
2 cloves minced garlic
1 small finely diced shallot
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Pantry Staples

You’ll need olive oil for sautéing, butter for richness, chicken broth for depth, and all-purpose flour for thickening the signature Irish sauce.

If you’re looking for something sweet to balance out this savory dish later, our Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies make for a delightful dessert that complements the meal perfectly!

Step-by-Step Irish Chicken with Whiskey Cream Sauce Instructions

Pre-Cooking Irish Chicken Prep

Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
Allow the pan to become hot before adding chicken to ensure proper searing

Cooking Method for Irish Chicken

Place chicken in the hot skillet without crowding
Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F
Remove chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm
In the same pan, add butter and sauté shallots and garlic until fragrant
Add whiskey to deglaze (stand back as it may flame briefly)
Sprinkle flour and stir for 30 seconds
Gradually whisk in cream and broth
Add mustard and thyme, simmer until thickened

Doneness Check for Irish Chicken

The chicken should reach 165°F on an instant-read thermometer. The meat should be opaque throughout with no pink remaining. When sliced, the juices should run clear.

Resting Irish Chicken

Allow the cooked chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving with the sauce. This redistributes juices throughout the meat for maximum tenderness in your Irish chicken dish.

Pro Tips for Perfect Irish Chicken with Whiskey Cream Sauce

Avoiding Tough/Dry Irish Chicken

Don’t overcook the chicken – remove it from heat as soon as it reaches the proper temperature. Consider brining the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking for extra juiciness. Always let the meat rest before slicing or serving.

Tool Recommendations

An instant-read thermometer ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time. A heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron, provides even heat distribution. Silicone tongs offer the best control when turning the chicken.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Irish chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken gently in a 300°F oven while warming sauce on low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive the consistency.

For more kitchen inspiration, check out our collection of tried-and-true recipes on Pinterest. Our boards are filled with creative ideas that will keep your cooking fresh and exciting!

Flavor Variations for Irish Chicken with Whiskey Cream Sauce

Herb Enhancements

Add a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley or chives to the finished sauce for bright color and flavor. Substitute rosemary for thyme for a more aromatic profile. A pinch of tarragon introduces a subtle anise note that pairs beautifully with the cream.

Dietary Adaptations

For dairy-free options, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and increase flour slightly. For gluten-free diners, replace flour with cornstarch slurry.

Global Flavor Influences

Variation	Key Additions	Serving Suggestion
Mediterranean	Sundried tomatoes, olives	With orzo pasta
French-inspired	Tarragon, dijon mustard	With haricots verts
Scandinavian	Dill, lemon zest	With roasted potatoes
Irish Classic	Leeks, mushrooms	With colcannon

After enjoying this hearty Irish chicken, you might crave something sweet! Our Candy Cane Brownie Bombs make for a festive treat any time of year and come together quickly while your dinner settles.

Serving Suggestions for Irish Chicken with Whiskey Cream Sauce

Serve this luxurious Irish chicken over buttered egg noodles or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Accompany with steamed green vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for color and nutrition. A simple side salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.

For beverages, consider serving Irish coffee after dinner for a thematic pairing. Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with lemon or apple cider.

FAQs About Irish Chicken with Whiskey Cream Sauce

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately up to a day ahead. Reheat the sauce gently and warm the chicken in a low oven before serving.

What if my sauce breaks or curdles?
Lower the heat immediately and whisk in a tablespoon of cold cream. If that doesn’t work, transfer to a blender and pulse until smooth.

Can I use chicken with bones?
Yes, bone-in chicken works well but requires longer cooking times. Add about 5-7 minutes per side and verify doneness with a thermometer.

If you’re looking for another creamy sauce recipe that will impress your family, our Best Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce offers a different flavor profile that’s equally delicious and easy to prepare!

Conclusion

Irish Chicken with Whiskey Cream Sauce elevates simple ingredients into a memorable meal that balances comfort with elegance. The rich, velvety sauce transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary, while the straightforward preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply wanting to bring something special to your weeknight dinner routine, this Irish-inspired dish delivers exceptional flavor without complicated techniques.

How to Make the Best Irish Chicken with Whiskey Cream Sauce