Coq au Vin

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon 
• 3  bay leaves 
• 2  carrots cut in 2-inch pieces
• 2  chicken breasts 
• 2 cups chicken broth 
• 0.3 cup cognac 
• 0.5 cup flour 
• 6 servings parsley fresh chopped for garnish
• 5 sprigs thyme leaves fresh
• 2  legs 
• 2 cloves garlic chopped
• 2 teaspoons herbs de provence 
• 2 cups mushrooms 
• 2 cups pearl onions peeled
• 6 servings salt and pepper 
• 1 bottle burgundy wine 

Equipment

• frying pan
• paper towels
• pot
• dutch oven

Directions

1. In a large, heavy skillet or Dutch oven, fry the bacon over medium heat until crisp.
2. Transfer bacon to paper towels to drain. Coat chicken pieces in flour, salt and pepper. Brown chicken in hot bacon fat on both sides.
3. Add garlic, onions, mushrooms and carrots.
4. Saute 2 minutes to soften.
5. Pour cognac into a small glass.
6. Remove pan from heat, pour in cognac, put pan back on the flame. Flambe by lighting a long match and holding it just above the pot and light the fumes. The brandy will catch fire and the flames will burn out within 1 minute. When the flames die down, gradually stir in the wine and broth. When the wine is well blended, add the herbs. Cover and simmer for 1 hour.
7. Remove cover and continue to simmer for 15 minutes to allow the sauce to reduce a bit. You may want to add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste or cornstarch to aid in the thickening process.
8. To serve, top the chicken and vegetables with reserved crumbled bacon and fresh parsley.