Smoky Grilled Coq au Vin Recipe on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Transform the classic French dish, coq au vin, with a delightful outdoor twist by preparing it on your Arteflame grill. This method infuses the chicken with a unique smoky flavor that complements the rich, wine-infused sauce beautifully. Follow this guide to create an unforgettable coq au vin that's perfect for any special occasion or cozy evening.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks, skin-on
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mushrooms, quartered
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine (like Burgundy)
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment:

• Arteflame grill
• Cast iron skillet or Dutch oven suitable for grill use
• Cooking tongs
• Wooden spoon

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill:

   • Heat your Arteflame grill and get it ready for grilling.

2. Season and Sear the Chicken:

   • Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Put the chicken, skin-side down on the cooktop and sear until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

3. Render the Bacon:

   • Put the chopped bacon on the cooktop and grill until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the fat on the cooktop.

4. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • Add the onion, garlic, mushrooms, and carrots to the bacon fat on the cooktop. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have browned.

5. Deglaze and Simmer:

   • In a skillet, pour in the red wine and allow it to simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the chicken stock, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.

6. Cook the Chicken:

   • Add the chicken and bacon to the skillet. The chicken should be mostly submerged. Cover with a lid or aluminum foil and let it cook over the cooler part of the grill for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.

7. Final Touches:

   • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf.

8. Serve:

   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot, ideally with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips

• For extra depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in wine, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
• Use good quality wine, as it will significantly impact the final taste of the dish.
• Cook on a steady, low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Variations

• Try using bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks for a leaner option.
• Experiment with different mushrooms like cremini or porcini for a richer flavor.
• For a more intense smoky taste, grill the chicken briefly before adding it to the sauce.

Best Pairings

• Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to soak up the sauce.
• A crusty French baguette makes an excellent accompaniment.
• Pair with a glass of the same Burgundy or Pinot Noir used in the dish for a harmonious flavor experience.

Conclusion

Experience the rustic charm and depth of flavor of coq au vin cooked on an Arteflame grill. This recipe brings a smoky twist to the traditional French dish, making it an ideal choice for those looking to elevate their grilling game. Perfect for wine lovers and culinary enthusiasts alike, this coq au vin is sure to impress at any dinner party.