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Chicken in White Wine Sauce Recipe

Avatar photoByOlivia Bennett
Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 50 reviews

If you’re craving something elegant yet comfortingly approachable, this Chicken in White Wine Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy chicken breasts are bathed in a rich, garlicky white wine sauce that’s creamy, tangy, and absolutely irresistible — a dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Decadent yet simple: This recipe uses straightforward ingredients to create a sauce that tastes like it took hours to perfect.
Flavor-packed sauce: The white wine reduction combined with garlic, cream, and Parmesan brings an incredible depth of flavor.
Perfectly tender chicken: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures quick, juicy cooking every time.
Versatile and crowd-pleasing: It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it easy to customize to your palate.

A white pot with black handles holds four cooked chicken pieces covered in a thick, creamy light yellow sauce with herbs. The chicken has a browned, slightly crispy surface peeking through the sauce. The sauce is speckled with small green herbs and black pepper. A spoon with a wooden handle rests inside the pot on the right side, partially submerged in the sauce. Around the pot, on a white marbled surface, are lemon wedges and fresh green parsley leaves. A white cloth is casually placed near the top edge of the pot. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Chicken in White Wine Sauce, White Wine Chicken Recipe, Elegant Chicken Dinner, Creamy White Wine Chicken, Garlic Chicken with White Wine

Ingredients & Substitutions

What’s amazing about this Chicken in White Wine Sauce Recipe is how the simple ingredients each play a starring role — from the aromatic garlic to the creamy Parmesan — working harmoniously to deliver layers of flavor and a luscious texture.

Flat lay of two large boneless skinless chicken breasts seasoned with Italian herbs, a small pile of flour, several peeled garlic cloves, a wedge of fresh lemon, a pat of butter, a handful of fresh parsley sprigs, a small mound of grated Parmesan cheese, and a glass of dry white wine, all beautifully arranged on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Chicken in White Wine Sauce, White Wine Chicken Recipe, Elegant Chicken Dinner, Creamy White Wine Chicken, Garlic Chicken with White Wine
  • Chicken breasts: Choose boneless and skinless for easy slicing and even cooking; pounding them thin helps them cook quickly and stay tender.
  • Dry white wine: A key player in the sauce, it adds brightness and a lovely acidity; Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio work wonderfully.
  • Butter and olive oil: A combo that crisps the chicken beautifully and creates a rich sauce base.
  • Garlic and Worcestershire sauce: Elevate the sauce with a fragrant punch and subtle umami depth.
  • Heavy cream and Parmesan: These add creaminess and a savory finish that makes every bite satisfying.
  • Lemon juice and fresh parsley: Fresh herbs and lemon bring a lively freshness that balances the richness perfectly.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Chicken in White Wine Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by slicing your chicken breasts lengthwise to create thinner, more uniform pieces. Use a meat mallet to gently pound them to about half an inch thick — this ensures even, quick cooking and tender results. Afterward, pat the chicken dry so it crisps up beautifully. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour for that irresistible golden crust.

Step 2: Sear to Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken pieces in batches until they develop a gorgeous golden brown crust, about 4-5 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding to maintain that lovely sear. Once done, remove them and let the flavorful browned bits remain in the pan — this is where much of your sauce’s magic will come from!

Step 3: Build the White Wine Sauce

With the heat off, pour in the white wine and then turn the stove back on to medium. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up all those browned bits stuck to the pan — that’s pure flavor right there. Let the wine gently bubble until it has reduced by half, thickening with concentrated flavor. Add butter and minced garlic, cooking just a minute until fragrant, then stir in Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, and a blend of dried herbs and seasonings. Bring everything to a boil to combine those layers beautifully.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Simmer

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth and slowly whisk it into the simmering sauce. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream gradually, keeping the sauce silky without curdling. Finally, add freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that rich, savory punch. Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, spoon the sauce generously over top, cover partially, and let everything simmer gently for five minutes so the flavors marry perfectly.

Step 5: Add Bright Finishing Touches

Remove the pan from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice — this little burst of citrus lifts the entire dish, balancing the creamy, buttery richness. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and your Chicken in White Wine Sauce is ready to impress!

How to Serve Chicken in White Wine Sauce Recipe

A white round plate holds three sections of food arranged: on the left is a thick piece of golden-brown chicken covered in a creamy light beige sauce with small specks of herbs and black pepper, topped with chopped green parsley; on the right side is a large scoop of creamy mashed potatoes with a smooth texture and a square of butter melting on top, sprinkled with black pepper, with a silver fork stuck into the potatoes at the edge; at the bottom center are fresh, bright green cooked beans lined up neatly; behind the chicken is a bright yellow lemon wedge resting against the food; the plate is set on a white marbled surface, with some green parsley and a lemon wedge in the background; photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Chicken in White Wine Sauce, White Wine Chicken Recipe, Elegant Chicken Dinner, Creamy White Wine Chicken, Garlic Chicken with White Wine

Garnishes

A simple handful of chopped fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds that inviting green contrast. For an extra treat, a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan on individual plates elevates the presentation and flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, a few thin lemon slices placed on the side add charming visual appeal and offer additional zest.

Side Dishes

This Chicken in White Wine Sauce Recipe shines paired with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up every drop of sauce. Roasted green beans or asparagus bring vibrant, crunchy freshness to contrast the silky chicken. You could also serve it alongside a delicate pilaf or buttered pasta for a comforting, hearty meal that everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, plate the chicken slices slightly overlapped with the sauce drizzled artistically around. Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Alternatively, serve the chicken nestled on a bed of creamy polenta or risotto for a restaurant-worthy presentation that will wow guests any night of the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and sauce together in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce with the chicken helps preserve moisture and flavor, ensuring it stays delicious for your next meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes well! Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat to avoid breaking the creamy sauce. Stir occasionally to warm evenly. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating can help bring back that fresh, saucy consistency if needed.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different cut of chicken for this recipe?

    Absolutely! While boneless skinless breasts are ideal for even cooking and a tender bite, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through.

  2. What kind of white wine is best for the sauce?

    Opt for a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay. Avoid anything too sweet, as it can alter the flavor balance of the sauce. If you’d rather not use alcohol, a good quality chicken broth with a splash of white grape juice can be an alternative.

  3. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

    If the sauce isn’t as thick as you like, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water and slowly stir it into the simmering sauce. Allow it to bubble for a minute or two until it reaches your preferred consistency.

  4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

    You can prep the chicken and make the sauce ahead, then gently reheat and combine just before serving. This makes it a fantastic option for dinner parties or busy weeknights when you want a quick yet impressive meal.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Chicken in White Wine Sauce Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes. It’s classic, comforting, and feels just a little bit special — the perfect combo for sharing good food and good times. So grab your skillet and get ready to delight everyone at your table!

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Chicken in White Wine Sauce Recipe

Chicken in White Wine Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 50 reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

This Chicken in White Wine Sauce recipe features tender, thinly sliced chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and simmered in a rich, creamy white wine sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and fresh lemon juice. Perfect for a comforting dinner served alongside mashed potatoes and roasted green beans.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce

  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cold water (optional)
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Sauce Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, to garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to get 2-3 thinner slices each. Place the slices in a gallon freezer bag or between sheets of plastic wrap, then gently pound with a meat mallet’s textured side to ½ inch thickness. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  2. Season and Dredge: Season both sides of the chicken slices with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour and gently shake off any excess flour.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken slices in batches for 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust. Remove the chicken and set aside, leaving the browned bits in the skillet.
  4. Deglaze with Wine: Turn off the heat briefly, add the dry white wine to the skillet, then turn heat back to medium. Use a silicone spatula to scrape and loosen any browned bits from the bottom and sides of the pan. Allow the wine to simmer gently until it has reduced by half, about 10 minutes.
  5. Add Butter and Garlic: Stir in the butter and minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Add Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, dried parsley, mustard powder, oregano, and basil to the skillet. Bring the sauce to a boil.
  7. Thicken Sauce (Optional): If a thicker sauce is desired, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and slowly stir it into the boiling sauce until thickened.
  8. Finish the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, mixing continuously. Then stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.
  9. Simmer with Chicken: Return the chicken slices to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Partially cover the skillet and let simmer gently for 5 minutes to warm through and meld flavors. Then remove from heat.
  10. Final Touches and Serve: Stir the fresh lemon juice into the sauce to brighten the flavor. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with mashed potatoes and roasted green beans for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Use a dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for the best flavor and to prevent sweetness.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, cornstarch slurry can be used to adjust consistency as needed.
  • Ensure chicken breasts are pounded evenly for uniform cooking and tenderness.
  • Fresh lemon juice added at the end enhances the brightness and balances the richness of the sauce.
  • This recipe pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes and roasted green beans or steamed vegetables.
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