Classic French Coq au Vin Recipe

Coq au Vin is a traditional French dish that translates to 'rooster in wine'. It is a rich and flavorful chicken stew braised in red wine with mushrooms, onions, and bacon. This recipe is a classic version of Coq au Vin that is perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. With a blend of aromatic herbs, tender chicken, and a luscious red wine sauce, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 slices of bacon, diced
• 4 chicken leg quarters
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups red wine (such as Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside.
2. Season the chicken leg quarters with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. In the same pot with the bacon fat, brown the chicken on all sides until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are browned.
5. Pour in the red wine and chicken broth, then add the tomato paste, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
6. Return the bacon and chicken to the pot. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
7. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and keep warm. Discard the bay leaves.
8. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook the sauce uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, or until it has thickened and reduced slightly.
9. Stir in the butter to add richness to the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Place the chicken back into the pot to coat it with the sauce.
11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.
12. Enjoy this delicious and comforting Coq au Vin!

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