Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 12 pearl onions, peeled
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups red wine (such as Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In the same pot, brown the chicken on all sides until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the pearl onions and mushrooms. Sauté until the onions are golden brown and the mushrooms are tender. Remove them from the pot and set them aside.
4. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and stir well to combine. Cook for a minute or two to cook off the raw flour taste.
6. Slowly pour in the red wine and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme sprigs. Stir well to combine.
7. Return the chicken, bacon, pearl onions, and mushrooms to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
9. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Remove and discard the bay leaves and thyme sprigs.
10. If desired, you can thicken the sauce by simmering it uncovered for a few more minutes until it reduces slightly.
11. Serve the Coq au Vin hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Coq au Vin is a classic French dish that brings comfort and elegance to the table. Enjoy this flavorful taste of France!