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
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup Irish whiskey; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme; 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 onion, finely chopped

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the rich and creamy flavors of Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce, a delightful dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite mashed potatoes. Tender chicken thighs are simmered in a luscious sauce made from Irish whiskey, heavy cream, and aromatic herbs, creating a comforting meal that will transport your taste buds to the Emerald Isle. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends while satisfying your cravings for hearty, flavorful cuisine.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2025-12-01T11:09:08.591Z

A Taste of Ireland

Irish cuisine is celebrated for its hearty and wholesome dishes, with a vibrant history rooted in its cultural heritage. This Irish Chicken in Whiskey Cream Sauce captures the essence of traditional Irish cooking, emphasizing the use of local ingredients and flavors. The inclusion of whiskey not only adds depth to the sauce but also pays homage to the country’s rich distilling heritage. Whether you're making this dish for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner, it’ll bring a taste of the Emerald Isle right into your kitchen.

Pair this delightful dish with classic Irish sides, such as colcannon or champ, which are mashed potato preparations infused with greens and butter. The creamy chicken sauce, combined with these sides, creates a harmonious blend of flavors that elevate any meal. Additionally, a robust loaf of Irish soda bread or a slice of crusty baguette becomes the perfect companion for soaking up the delicious sauce, offering a complete culinary experience.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken

To ensure your chicken thighs come out tender and juicy, be mindful of your cooking time. Overcooking can lead to dry meat, which no one wants in a delicious cream sauce. Searing the chicken until golden brown gives it a beautiful crust while locking in moisture. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken, as this step is crucial for achieving that perfect sear.

Letting the chicken rest after cooking is another vital tip. Once you remove the chicken from the pan, allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite remains flavorful and succulent. With these simple tips, you’ll craft a dish that not only looks great on the plate but tastes even better.

Pairing Wine and Beverages

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Sauce

1 cup Irish whiskey
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 onion, finely chopped

Instructions

Steps

Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Pour in the Irish whiskey and let it reduce by half.

Combine and Simmer

Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, and parsley. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened.

Serve

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you’re fortunate to have leftovers, congratulations! This dish holds up beautifully in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld even further. Store the chicken and sauce together in an airtight container, and it will maintain its quality for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to avoid breaking the cream, stirring occasionally until heated through.

You can also freeze the dish if you want to enjoy it later. However, keep in mind that cream sauces may change in texture after freezing. For the best results, consider freezing the chicken separately from the sauce and combining them freshly during reheating. With these storage tips, you'll be able to savor this delightful Irish dish even after the initial meal.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the beautiful aspects of cooking is the ability to customize recipes to suit your palate. If you're looking to introduce a bit of spice, adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can bring an exciting twist to the traditional flavors. Alternatively, experimenting with different herbs like rosemary or even a pinch of sage can add a unique layer to the sauce.

For a lighter version, try substituting half of the heavy cream with broth or a plant-based alternative, making the dish slightly healthier without sacrificing too much of the indulgent feel. Remember, cooking is all about exploration and enjoyment, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as breasts cook faster.

→ What can I substitute for Irish whiskey?

You can use bourbon or a similar whiskey if you don't have Irish whiskey.