Easy Coq au Vin

Easy Coq au Vin

Casserole
serves 4

This easy coq au vin keeps the soul of the French classic while using straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients.

Chicken, bacon, mushrooms and onions simmer in a glossy red wine sauce until rich, comforting and ready for the table.

20 mins prep1 hr 10 mins cook1 hr 30 mins total
  1. Pat the chicken dry and season well with salt and black pepper.

  2. Heat the olive oil in a large casserole and brown the chicken skin-side down in batches, then set aside.

  3. Add the bacon to the pan and fry until lightly crisp.

  4. Stir in the shallots and mushrooms and cook for 6-8 minutes until coloured.

  5. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, then stir through the flour and tomato purée.

  6. Pour in the red wine and scrape the pan base to lift any caramelised bits.

  7. Return the chicken to the casserole and add the stock, thyme and bay leaf.

  8. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 45 minutes.

  9. Uncover and simmer for a further 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is tender.

  10. Stir in the butter to give the sauce a glossy finish and check the seasoning.

  11. Scatter with chopped parsley and serve hot with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.