Coq au Riesling

On a crisp evening, as the golden sunset painted my kitchen walls, I found myself yearning for a dish that whispered comfort and indulgence. That’s when the thought of the classic French Coq au Riesling washed over me, a creamy, wine-infused delight that promises to transform any ordinary dinner into a celebratory feast.

With its luscious sauce shimmering with hints of garlic, shallots, and herbs, this dish captures the heart of homemade cooking while keeping the prep relatively simple. The heartiness of tender chicken, alongside the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the sweet burst of pearl onions, takes you on a journey to a rustic bistro without ever leaving your home.

Perfect for impressing guests or simply bringing joy to your family table, Coq au Riesling combines elegance with a warmth that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. Join me as I guide you through each delicious step to make this showstopper, ensuring that fast food will be a distant memory!

Coq au Riesling Ingredients

For the Chicken
• 3 lbs chicken pieces (bone-in, skin-on) – This cut of chicken ensures a juicy, flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with the Riesling.
• Salt and black pepper – Seasoning this well allows the chicken's natural flavors to shine.

For the Sauce
• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter – Adds richness to the sauce and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps in browning the chicken and brings a touch of heartiness.
• 2 shallots (chopped) – Their mild sweetness contributes to the depth of flavor in the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with a wonderful aroma that's simply irresistible.
• 12 oz mushrooms (sliced) – Their earthy flavor complements the chicken and adds texture.
• 1 cup pearl onions (peeled) – Provides a sweet burst that balances the dish’s richness.
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Acts as a thickening agent for a luxuriously creamy sauce.
• 2 cups dry Riesling wine – This is the star of the show, giving the Coq au Riesling its signature taste.
• 1 cup chicken stock – Enhances the sauce while maintaining the dish's comforting essence.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a velvety texture and adds a touch of indulgence.
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme – A hint of herbal brightness that elevates the flavor profile.
• 1 bay leaf – Infuses the sauce with its distinctive aroma, rounding out the flavors beautifully.

Let’s dive into making this Coq au Riesling, where every ingredient dances together to create a meal that sings comfort and delight!

How to Make Coq au Riesling

1. Season Chicken: Start by generously seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. This allows the chicken's natural flavors to be enhanced beautifully during cooking.

2. Brown Chicken: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces, browning them until golden, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally, as these flavors will form the base of your sauce.

4. Cook Vegetables: Toss in the sliced mushrooms and pearl onions; cook for another 5-7 minutes. You want them to soften and release their moisture, deepening the dish’s flavor.

5. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well. Cook for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste, ensuring that it combines evenly.

6. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry Riesling wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any brown bits. This adds depth to the sauce. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes.

7. Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken stock, fresh thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Return the browned chicken to the pot, nestling it among the aromatic mix.

8. Simmer Chicken: Cover the pot and let everything simmer over low heat for about 30-35 minutes. This time will make your chicken tender and infused with all those wonderful flavors.

9. Stir in Cream: After the chicken is tender, gently stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens, creating that luxurious texture.

10. Garnish and Serve: Final touch—remove the bay leaf and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve this hearty Coq au Riesling warm, enjoyed with good bread or a side of roasted vegetables!

Optional: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Coq au Riesling in advance is a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can season the chicken and brown it up to 24 hours ahead, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, chop your shallots, garlic, mushrooms, and pearl onions the day before to save time. For the sauce, combine the flour, wine, and stock, then refrigerate until you're ready to finish cooking. On the day of serving, simply reheat the browned chicken, add your sautéed aromatics, and mix in the refrigerated ingredients. Simmer until the chicken is heated through and creamy perfection is achieved, ensuring a meal that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!

Storage Tips for Coq au Riesling

Room Temperature: Store leftover Coq au Riesling at room temperature for no more than 2 hours. It's best to refrigerate promptly for optimal safety.

Fridge: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is cooled to room temperature before sealing.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Coq au Riesling in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through. You may add a splash of chicken stock or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

What to Serve with Coq au Riesling?

Indulging in a rich and creamy Coq au Riesling sets the stage for a delightful meal that deserves some worthy companions.

• Crusty French Bread: Perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce; a warm baguette adds a rustic touch to your feast.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright and slightly crisp, they offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these comfort-food favorites complement the dish's creamy sauce, making every bite a delight.
• Simple Arugula Salad: With its peppery greens and a light vinaigrette, this salad adds clarity and freshness, balancing the heaviness of the main dish.
• Mushroom Risotto: The earthiness of risotto beautifully mirrors the mushrooms in the Coq au Riesling, creating a harmonious flavor experience.
• Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Riesling not only enhances the meal but also offers delightful notes that mirror the dish's rich ingredients.
• Classic Tarte Tatin: Finish on a sweet note with this iconic French dessert, the caramelized apples bring a lovely sweetness, a nice contrast to savory flavors.
• Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, this grain absorbs sauces well and brings a subtle herbal flavor that ties the meal together nicely.

Coq au Riesling Variations

Feel free to explore the endless possibilities to customize your Coq au Riesling experience!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, dairy-free alternative that still brings creamy indulgence.

• Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like tarragon or parsley instead of thyme for a fragrant twist that enhances the flavor profile.

• Mushroom Medley: Use a variety of mushrooms such as shiitake, cremini, or oyster to introduce diverse flavors and textures to your dish.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce for a delightful kick that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with hearty, grilled tofu or roasted vegetables, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a satisfying, plant-based meal.

• Wine Booster: Try a splash of Riesling vinegar at the end for a touch of acidity that brightens the flavors and enhances the overall balance of the dish.

• Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted walnuts or hazelnuts as a garnish for a crunchy texture that adds both flavor and visual appeal.

• Golden Touch: Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving, giving your dish a refreshing burst of brightness and complexity.

Coq au Riesling Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for Coq au Riesling?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken for Coq au Riesling, look for bone-in, skin-on pieces. This cut ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender throughout the cooking process. Pay attention to the color; it should be a bright pink without any dark spots, which can indicate spoilage.

How should I store leftover Coq au Riesling?
Very simply! Store any leftover Coq au Riesling in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before sealing it tight, as this helps maintain its deliciousness!

Can I freeze Coq au Riesling for later?
Absolutely! To freeze Coq au Riesling, let it cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove with a touch of chicken stock or cream for that creamy texture.

What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
Don't worry! If your sauce turns out thinner than you'd like, you can thicken it by making a slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into your sauce over low heat, and allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens nicely. This step can really elevate your dish!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Excellent question! For dietary restrictions, ensure that everyone at your table can enjoy the dish. This Coq au Riesling is not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour; consider using a gluten-free flour alternative if necessary. The dish does contain dairy from the heavy cream, so for lactose-free options, a dairy-free cream substitute can work as a delicious alternative. Always check with your guests about any allergies or dietary needs prior to serving.

Coq au Riesling

Coq au Riesling is a classic French dish that combines chicken with a creamy, wine-infused sauce for a delightful dining experience.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: EVENING DINNERS

Cuisine: French

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

For the Chicken

• 3 lbs chicken pieces (bone-in, skin-on) This cut of chicken ensures a juicy, flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with the Riesling.
• Salt and black pepper Seasoning this well allows the chicken's natural flavors to shine.

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter Adds richness to the sauce and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps in browning the chicken and brings a touch of heartiness.
• 2 shallots (chopped) Their mild sweetness contributes to the depth of flavor in the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) Infuses the dish with a wonderful aroma that's simply irresistible.
• 12 oz mushrooms (sliced) Their earthy flavor complements the chicken and adds texture.
• 1 cup pearl onions (peeled) Provides a sweet burst that balances the dish’s richness.
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour Acts as a thickening agent for a luxuriously creamy sauce.
• 2 cups dry Riesling wine This is the star of the show, giving the Coq au Riesling its signature taste.
• 1 cup chicken stock Enhances the sauce while maintaining the dish's comforting essence.
• 1 cup heavy cream Creates a velvety texture and adds a touch of indulgence.
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme A hint of herbal brightness that elevates the flavor profile.
• 1 leaf bay leaf Infuses the sauce with its distinctive aroma, rounding out the flavors beautifully.

Equipment

• large pot

Method

 

Cooking Steps

1. Season Chicken: Start by generously seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. This allows the chicken's natural flavors to be enhanced beautifully during cooking.
2. Brown Chicken: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces, browning them until golden, about 5-7 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally, as these flavors will form the base of your sauce.
4. Cook Vegetables: Toss in the sliced mushrooms and pearl onions; cook for another 5-7 minutes. You want them to soften and release their moisture, deepening the dish’s flavor.
5. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well. Cook for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste, ensuring that it combines evenly.
6. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry Riesling wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any brown bits. This adds depth to the sauce. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken stock, fresh thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Return the browned chicken to the pot, nestling it among the aromatic mix.
8. Simmer Chicken: Cover the pot and let everything simmer over low heat for about 30-35 minutes. This time will make your chicken tender and infused with all those wonderful flavors.
9. Stir in Cream: After the chicken is tender, gently stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens, creating that luxurious texture.
10. Garnish and Serve: Final touch—remove the bay leaf and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve this hearty Coq au Riesling warm, enjoyed with good bread or a side of roasted vegetables!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 45gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

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