NRM Coq au Vin with Chicken Breast

Description
This lighter Coq au Vin recipe transforms the classic French dish into a healthier, no red meat version made with tender chicken breast. Simmered in a rich sauce of red wine, mushrooms, pearl onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, this elegant one-pan meal delivers deep, comforting flavours without using beef or pork. Perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests, Chicken Breast Coq au Vin is a sophisticated yet approachable recipe that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or buttered noodles. This easy French-inspired dish offers all the rustic charm of traditional Coq au Vin in a leaner, family-friendly format.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Serving Number
4 servings

NRM Coq au Vin with Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Method
- Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then lightly dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté diced onion, garlic, mushrooms, and pearl onions for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in red wine and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add thyme and bay leaves, then bring sauce to a gentle simmer for 8–10 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Return chicken breasts to the pan, spoon sauce over the top, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove bay leaves and thyme stems.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Avoid overcooking chicken breast to keep it juicy and tender.
- Use a good-quality dry red wine for the best depth of flavour.
- For extra richness without red meat, stir in an extra tablespoon of butter before serving.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes before serving.

