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There is something absolutely magical about a rich, comforting bowl of coq au vin, and with this Instant Pot Coq au Vin Recipe, you can enjoy that classic French flavor in a fraction of the time. This hearty dish features tender chicken thighs simmered with crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a luscious wine-infused sauce that’s bold and full of depth. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing friends without hours in the kitchen, this recipe blends tradition with modern convenience seamlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a crucial role in building the layered flavors you expect from a perfect coq au vin. From smoky bacon to aromatic thyme and that gorgeous red wine, every component adds texture, aroma, and depth to the dish.
- 6 strips bacon (chopped into small pieces): Provides smoky richness and a delightful crispy texture.
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, perfect for absorbing all the flavorful sauce.
- 2 large carrots (chopped): Adds sweetness and a tender bite to balance the savory elements.
- 10 ounces pearl onions (peeled): Soft and mildly sweet, they melt beautifully into the sauce.
- 7 ounces button mushrooms (left whole): Earthy flavor and a meaty texture that complements the chicken.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic pungency.
- 2 cups red wine: The heart of coq au vin, lending richness, complexity, and a beautiful color.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth without overpowering the wine.
- 2 heaping tablespoons tomato paste: Boosts the sauce with a subtle tanginess and vibrant color.
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme: Herbal notes that brighten every bite.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water: Creates a slurry for lightly thickening the sauce at the end.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
How to Make Instant Pot Coq au Vin Recipe
Step 1: Prepare All Ingredients
Start by chopping the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears for ease and speed. While the bacon cooks later, prep your carrots, peel the pearl onions, and clean the mushrooms. This prep ensures everything is ready to go when it’s time to combine the flavors.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon
Hit the sauté button on your Instant Pot and add the chopped bacon. Cook it until it’s deliciously crispy, about 10 to 12 minutes. This step is crucial as the rendered fat will add incredible flavor to the base of your dish.
Step 3: Remove Excess Bacon Fat
Once crispy, push the bacon to one side and carefully scoop out most of the bacon fat to avoid greasiness. You can discard it or save it for another recipe if you like. Leaving just a little behind ensures your coq au vin stays rich without becoming heavy.
Step 4: Build the Sauce Base
Add minced garlic, followed by red wine, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Let this mixture start to bubble gently, then use a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits stuck on the bottom of the pot. This deglazing step is what unlocks a ton of flavor and prevents any burn warnings during pressure cooking.
Step 5: Add the Main Ingredients and Cook
Layer in the chicken thighs, chopped carrots, pearl onions, mushrooms, and fresh thyme sprigs. Give everything a gentle stir to combine. Lock the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld perfectly in a fraction of the traditional time.
Step 6: Natural Pressure Release and Quick Finish
When cooking completes, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes—this helps keep the chicken extra tender. Afterwards, carefully do a quick pressure release to let out any remaining steam before opening the pot.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce and Season
Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the pot. Turn the sauté function back on to gently thicken the sauce—not too thick, just enough to coat the ingredients nicely. Taste and adjust salt and pepper for that perfect balance. Your instant pot coq au vin is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Instant Pot Coq au Vin Recipe
Garnishes
Add a fresh touch with chopped parsley sprinkled on top; it brightens the dish visually and adds a subtle herbal note that pairs wonderfully with the thyme already in the recipe.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish shines alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a rustic baguette for soaking up every last bit of the luscious sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy gathering, serve in shallow bowls with a sprig of fresh thyme for decoration. Or plate it family-style in a beautiful ceramic dish, letting guests scoop as much as they desire. You might even try topping it with a dollop of crème fraîche for a luxurious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your second-day meal even more satisfying.
Freezing
This Instant Pot Coq au Vin Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or bags, label them, and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly and avoid drying out the chicken. You can also use the microwave on medium power but keep an eye to prevent overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in thighs will add even more depth of flavor but may require a few extra minutes of pressure cooking to become tender.
What type of red wine is best for coq au vin?
A dry red wine like Pinot Noir or Burgundy-style wine works best, offering a nice balance of acidity and fruitiness to complement the dish.
Is it necessary to peel pearl onions?
Yes, peeling pearl onions enhances their tenderness and prevents any bitter outer layers from affecting the sauce’s smooth texture.
Can this recipe be made without an Instant Pot?
You can, but it will take longer. Simmering on the stovetop for 1 to 1.5 hours until the chicken is tender will achieve a similar result.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
Use only enough cornstarch slurry to slightly thicken the sauce so it nicely coats the ingredients without being gloopy or heavy.
Final Thoughts
I truly can’t recommend this Instant Pot Coq au Vin Recipe enough. It captures all the rustic charm and complex flavors of the traditional French classic, yet it’s accessible enough for any weeknight dinner. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to this comforting, soul-satisfying meal again and again.
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