Don’t be fooled by the name, this dish is actually easy and while it takes some time, a lot of it is hands-off while the dish bakes in the oven! It is perfect for those stay-at-home dinners or even special occasions!

What is Coq au Vin?

Coq au Vin is a French dish with bone-in chicken slow-baked (braised) in wine, bacon, mushrooms, and garlic.

Braising means a dish is browned (like the chicken skin in this recipe) and then slowly cook in liquid (the wine sauce).

When I think of this dish of course I go directly to Julia Child’s Coq au Vin and I can almost hear her walking me through the recipe. While this recipe somewhat follows the recipe found in Julia’s book (which is also very similar to the recipe in Joy of Cooking) I have slightly simplified the method (and ingredients).

Most often, Coq au Vin uses red wine but truly ANY wine will do! Don’t forget to pour some for the chef!

Ingredients/Variations

CHICKEN

Browned thighs and drumsticks with the skin on have so much flavor! Chicken breasts can be used but cook time may need to be adjusted to avoid overcooking.

VEGGIES

Mushrooms, onions, and carrots are sauteed until soft.

How to Cook Coq au Vin

Follow these easy steps to tender chicken perfection in a rich wine sauce!

  • Crisp Bacon & Brown Chicken – set aside
  • Cook Veggies – until slightly soft and then add garlic, wine and remaining ingredients.
  • Bake – add chicken back to the pan and cover. Bake until tender, about 1 hour.

More Elegant Meals

  • Braised Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms – a family favorite
  • Easy Layered Ratatouille – a one-pot dish
  • Easy Shrimp Scampi Recipe – quick to make
  • Broiled Lobster Tail – special occasion worthy
  • Chicken Cordon Bleu – cheesy & juicy
  • Balsamic Pork Loin – marinated until tender

Did you love this Coq au Vin dish? Be sure to leave a rating and a comment below! 

Wine for Coq au Vin

The best wines for Coq au Vin are historically reds, but literally, ANY wine will do.

  • Deep, dark burgundies are the preferred wines
  • Pinot Noirs or Beaujolais are suitable as well.
  • Whites are okay too but expect a sweeter, lighter flavor.

Don’t be concerned about the cost, inexpensive wine is just as flavorful in a Coq au Vin as a pricier one!

Coq au Vin

Nutrition Information

Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.

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