Chicken in White Wine Sauce

Elegant, creamy, and packed with rich flavor, this Chicken in White Wine Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home in under an hour. With tender pan-seared chicken breasts simmered in a velvety white wine sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of cream, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner.

If you’ve enjoyed Homemade Chicken Strips or Marry Me Chicken, this sophisticated yet approachable recipe is the perfect next addition to your chicken dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – 1.5 lbs
  (Pounded to even thickness for uniform cooking.)
  
• Salt and black pepper – 1 teaspoon each
  (To season the chicken thoroughly.)
  
• All-purpose flour – 1/4 cup
  (For light dredging to create a golden crust.)
  
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
  (For searing the chicken.)
  
• Butter – 2 tablespoons
  (Adds richness and helps brown the chicken.)
  

For the Sauce:

• Shallots or yellow onion – 1/3 cup, finely chopped
  (Provides sweetness and depth.)
  
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
  (Essential for flavor.)
  
• Dry white wine – 3/4 cup
  (Such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.)
  
• Chicken broth – 1/2 cup
  (Adds body and balances the wine.)
  
• Heavy cream – 1/2 cup
  (Creates a rich and velvety texture.)
  
• Dijon mustard (optional) – 1 teaspoon
  (For a hint of tang and complexity.)
  
• Fresh thyme or rosemary – 1–2 teaspoons, chopped
  (Herbal flavor that pairs beautifully with white wine.)
  
• Fresh parsley – For garnish
  (Adds freshness and color.)

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
  
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  
• Total Time: 45 minutes
  
• Serves: 4

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
  
• Tongs or spatula
  
• Cutting board and knife
  
• Measuring cups and spoons
  
• Whisk

How to Make Chicken in White Wine Sauce: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare and Season the Chicken

Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Lightly dredge each piece in flour, shaking off excess. This helps create a golden crust and helps thicken the sauce later.

2. Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and almost cooked through. Remove and set aside. The chicken will finish cooking in the sauce.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same pan, add a bit more butter if needed, then add chopped shallots or onions. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

4. Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. These bits add flavor to the sauce. Let the wine simmer for 3–4 minutes, reducing by about half.

5. Build the Sauce

Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and fresh herbs. Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

6. Return the Chicken to the Pan

Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 5–7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C).

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Plate with mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
  
• Protein: 32g
  
• Carbohydrates: 8g
  
• Fat: 28g
  
• Fiber: 0g
  
• Sugar: 2g
  
• Sodium: 620mg

Tips and Variations

• Use Chicken Thighs: Thighs stay juicy and flavorful, even if slightly overcooked.
  
• No Wine? Use more chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
  
• Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms after searing the chicken for added earthiness.
  
• Lower Fat Option: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or use Greek yogurt off heat.
  
• Extra Herbs: Tarragon or sage work well in place of thyme.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream.
  
• Freeze: This sauce is best fresh, but it can be frozen if you skip the cream or add it after thawing.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken in White Wine Sauce

There’s something magical about a creamy white wine sauce that elevates even the simplest chicken dish. Here’s why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Elegant yet Effortless: Looks fancy, but it’s made in under 45 minutes with one skillet.
• Flavor-Packed: Garlic, thyme, and Dijon mustard create a complex flavor without overwhelming the palate.
• Customizable: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bacon for your own flair.
• Weeknight Friendly: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this great for busy nights.
• Family Approved: Creamy chicken dishes are always a hit with kids and adults alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of wine is best?

Use a dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay. Avoid sweet wines like Moscato.

Can I make this without wine?

Yes! Substitute the wine with extra chicken broth and add a squeeze of lemon for acidity.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs work well and remain juicy.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer the sauce longer or whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the chicken broth and mustard are gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Chicken in White Wine Sauce is the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make at home. The creamy white wine sauce, rich with garlic and herbs, transforms basic chicken into something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself to a gourmet dinner at home, this dish delivers every time.

From the first golden sear to the final drizzle of sauce, each bite offers elegance, warmth, and comfort. Pair it with your favorite sides and a glass of wine, and you’ve got a 5-star meal — no reservations needed.

Ready to try more irresistible chicken dinners? Explore our full collection at Mealova Recipes and bring restaurant-style flavor to your kitchen tonight.