This delicious and comforting Coq au Vin recipe by Chef Peter Sidwell is a modern take on a classic French dish. Slow simmering gives the chicken a deep, rich flavor.You can make this dish a day or two in advance too, and just warm it up when you're ready to serve. This take on the traditional Coq au Vin recipe kicks up the flavor and reduces the work, for an easier & equally delicious Coq au Vin. Serve it up with some buttered pasta, rice or soft polenta and a glass of red wine - from California, of course!
5garlic clovessmashed, plus 1 head of garlic, halved
4slicesof thick-cut bacondiced
1sprig of fresh thyme
12ouncesof button mushrooms
4cupsof good red wine
4cupsCalifornia Prune Juice
2cupsof chicken stock
8free-range chicken thighs
12California Prunes
1small bunch flat-leaf parsley chopped
2TBSPred wine vinegar
1TBSPcapers
Instructions
Heat a thick-bottomed dutch oven or casserole dish over medium heat, add 4 tablespoons of the olive oil then add the shallots and cook until just browned.
Stir in the garlic, bacon, and thyme and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
Add the mushrooms, turn up the heat and add the red wine, California Prune Juice, and chicken stock.
Add the chicken pieces, halved head of garlic, and the California Prunes. Bring the sauce to a boil, reduce heat and then simmer gently for about 1 hour or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once it is cooked and keep warm. Cook the sauce over high heat for a few minutes until the volume of liquid has reduced. Return the chicken back to the pan.
Mix the chopped parsley, vinegar, capers, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil together to create a dressing. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Spoon the dressing over the top and serve with crusty bread.
Notes
May be made up to 3 days in advance. It tastes even better when made ahead!