Julia Child Chicken Coq au Vin Recipe

Julia Child’s Coq au Vin is a dish that exudes French charm and richness.

You start by marinating the chicken in a robust red wine, which adds layers of flavor you won’t forget.

Searing the chicken to a golden brown before starting the stew is crucial for that perfect texture and taste.

My favorite part? The way bacon and cognac meld with the wine to create a luscious, hearty sauce.

A little tip: don’t rush the simmering; let the flavors meld together slowly for the best results.

How to Make Julia Child Chicken Coq au Vin

• 4 oz. Bacon
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 3 lbs. Chicken (cut into pieces)
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 Onion (sliced)
• 2 cups Red Wine
• 2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1 tsp Thyme (dried)
• 1/2 lb. Mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 tbsp Butter
• 12 Pearl Onions
• 2 tbsp Flour

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Blanch the bacon by boiling it in water for 10 minutes.

Drain and pat it dry.

Cut it into small pieces.

Step 2:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy.

Remove and set aside.

Add chicken pieces to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and brown on all sides.

Step 3:

Add sliced onion to the pot and cook until soft.

Pour in the red wine and chicken broth.

Stir in tomato paste, minced garlic, bay leaf, and thyme.

Add back the bacon.

Step 4:

Cover the pot and simmer for 30 minutes.

In a separate pan, sauté the mushrooms in butter until cooked.

Add the mushrooms and pearl onions to the pot.

Step 5:

Mix flour with some of the cooking liquid from the pot to make a slurry.

Stir the slurry back into the pot to thicken the sauce.

Cook for another 15 minutes.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Blanch the Bacon

Blanching the bacon helps reduce its saltiness.

It’s an essential step that makes the dish taste just right.

Use Good Quality Wine

Using a wine that you enjoy drinking enhances the flavor of the dish.

Choose a full-bodied red wine for the best results.

Sauté the Mushrooms Separately

Sautéing the mushrooms separately helps them retain their texture and flavor.

Add them to the stew once they are golden brown.

Thicken the Sauce

If the sauce seems too thin, mix a little more flour with water to make a slurry.

Add it to the pot until you reach the desired consistency.

Rest the Dish

Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld.

This makes the meal even more delicious.

What to Serve with Julia Child’s Chicken Coq au Vin

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs perfectly with the rich, flavorful sauce of Coq au Vin.

The smooth texture of the potatoes balances the tender, braised chicken beautifully.

Green Beans Almondine

Green beans almondine offers a delightful crunch that complements the tender texture of the chicken.

The addition of toasted almonds brings a nutty contrast to the dish.

Crusty French Bread

A loaf of crusty French bread is ideal for soaking up every last bit of the delicious wine sauce.

It also adds a satisfying element to the meal.

Cauliflower Gratin

For a twist, try cauliflower gratin as a side.

The creamy cheese sauce and the roasted cauliflower make a cozy and slightly unexpected accompaniment.

Glazed Carrots

Sweet glazed carrots provide a vibrant pop of color and a touch of sweetness.

They pair wonderfully with the savory chicken and wine sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Alternative Meats

You can easily swap the traditional chicken with other meats like turkey or duck.

Using turkey legs can give a slightly different yet delightful taste.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables.

Mushrooms, carrots, and potatoes work great in soaking up the rich sauce.

Different Wine Choices

While red wine is classic, white wine can be a lighter alternative.

A good-quality dry white wine pairs wonderfully with the flavors.

Bacon Variations

You don’t have to stick with traditional bacon lardons.

Pancetta or even prosciutto can be used for a different flavor profile.

Herbs and Spices

Experiment with the herbs; thyme and bay leaves are standard, but you can try rosemary or sage.

Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can provide a smoky depth to your dish.

Gluten-Free Option

Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for those who are sensitive to gluten.

This won’t affect the richness or texture of your coq au vin.

Mix and match these suggestions to create a coq au vin that suits your taste!

How to Store Leftover Julia Child Chicken Coq au Vin

Cooling and Storage

Ensure the leftover Coq au Vin cools to room temperature before storing it.

Use an airtight container to keep the dish fresh and prevent any odors from other foods in the fridge.

Refrigerate the leftovers as soon as they have cooled down to prevent bacterial growth.

Refrigeration Tips

You can refrigerate the Coq au Vin for up to three days.

Label the container with the date it was made so you can keep track of its freshness.

When storing, place the container on a middle shelf to maintain a consistent temperature.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you want to store the leftovers for more than a few days, consider freezing them.

Transfer the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

Coq au Vin can be frozen for up to three months.

Label the container or bag with the name and date to avoid any mix-ups later.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Poor Quality Wine

Always choose a good quality wine that you would enjoy drinking.

The flavor of the wine directly impacts the overall taste of your Coq au Vin.

Avoid cheap or overly sweet wines.

Skipping the Marinade

Don’t skip marinating the chicken.

Marinating adds depth and flavor to the meat.

Give it at least a few hours, preferably overnight, for the best taste.

Overcooking the Chicken

Keep an eye on your cooking time.

Overcooked chicken can become rubbery and dry.

Aim for tender, juicy pieces to truly enjoy the dish!