This Coq au Vin with creamy mashed potatoes is a classic French-inspired dish that combines succulent braised chicken thighs with a rich red wine sauce filled with pearl onions, mushrooms, and carrots. Served over buttery mashed potatoes, it’s a soul-warming meal perfect for cozy nights or elegant dinner parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Coq au Vin is a timeless recipe that offers deep, layered flavors from slow braising in red wine with aromatic herbs and vegetables. Paired with silky mashed potatoes, this dish is hearty, elegant, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a complete meal that impresses guests yet is comforting enough to enjoy on a quiet evening at home. The leftovers are even better the next day as the flavors deepen further.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Coq au Vin:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 cup pearl onions, peeled
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups dry red wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon flour (optional, to thicken)
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the mashed potatoes:

• 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk (or cream)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Season chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, cook chopped bacon until crisp.
4. Add pearl onions, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté for 6–7 minutes until browned and softened.
5. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
6. Pour in red wine and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
7. Return the seared chicken to the pot and add thyme and bay leaf.
8. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook over low heat for 40–45 minutes, until chicken is tender.
9. (Optional) Remove the chicken briefly, whisk in flour to slightly thicken the sauce, and return the chicken to coat.
10. Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and mash with milk, butter, and salt to taste.
11. Serve the Coq au Vin over mashed potatoes, garnished with chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken drumsticks or a whole cut-up chicken instead of just thighs for variety.
• Try white wine for a lighter variation, often known as Coq au Vin Blanc.
• Add pearl barley or crusty bread instead of mashed potatoes for different textures.
• Use shallots in place of pearl onions for a slightly different flavor.
• Vegetarian version: Use hearty vegetables and mushrooms with vegetable broth and red wine.

Storage/Reheating

Store Coq au Vin and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
Microwave reheating is also effective, but stir occasionally for even heating.
Coq au Vin freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Mashed potatoes may not retain the same texture after freezing but can be revived with additional milk or butter when reheating.

FAQs

What type of wine is best for Coq au Vin?

A dry red wine such as Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Burgundy is ideal. Avoid sweet wines.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, Coq au Vin actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Reheat gently before serving.

Do I have to use bone-in, skin-on chicken?

Bone-in adds flavor during braising, but you can use boneless if preferred. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Can I substitute the pearl onions?

Yes, shallots or chopped yellow onions can be used if pearl onions aren’t available.

What kind of mushrooms work best?

Cremini mushrooms are classic, but button mushrooms or a mix of wild mushrooms also work well.

Is the flour necessary?

No, it’s optional. The sauce will be slightly thinner without it, but still flavorful.

Can I use a slow cooker?

Yes. After searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

How do I peel pearl onions easily?

Blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer to ice water. The skins should slip off easily.

What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?

A heavy-bottomed pot with a lid or an oven-safe deep skillet will also work.

Can I serve this with something other than mashed potatoes?

Yes, polenta, rice, or even buttered noodles make excellent alternatives.

Conclusion

Coq au Vin with creamy mashed potatoes is a timeless and deeply flavorful dish that brings French comfort food to your table. The tender chicken, robust wine sauce, and silky mashed potatoes create a harmony of taste and texture perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Whether you’re cooking it fresh or enjoying the leftovers, this dish always satisfies.

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