White Wine Cog au Vin

Prep/Total : 45 minutes  ... Makes 4 servings

4-1/2 .........tablespoons flour
3/4.............teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1/2 ............teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
1 ...............teaspoon herbes de Provence
4............... slices bacon (1/4 lb.), chopped 
1-1/2 .........pounds boned, skinned chicken thighs 
2 ...............tablespoons olive oil
1-1/2 .........cups peeled baby carrots
3 ...............stalks celery 
1 ...............medium onion
1-1/3 ........cups Chardonnay 
2 ...............cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1/2 ............cup lightly packed flat-leaf parsley sprigs
1................cup lightly packed fresh tarragon sprigs

1.         In a plastic bag, shake flour with 1/2 tsp. salt, 1/4 tsp. pepper, and the herbes de Provence; set aside.
2.         In a 5- to 6-qt. pan over medium-high heat, brown bacon, stirring occasionally, 6 to 7 minutes. Meanwhile, cut chicken into 1-in. chunks, then shake half at a time in flour to coat.
3.        With a slotted spoon, transfer bacon from pan to paper towels. Brown half the chicken in bacon fat, stirring occasionally, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining chicken, adding oil to pan. Meanwhile, cut carrots in half lengthwise and cut celery into diagonal slices. Chop onion.
4.        Add vegetables to pan with remaining salt and pepper and sauté until onion is golden, about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a microwave-safe bowl, microwave wine and broth until steaming, about 3 minutes.
5.       Add broth mixture, chicken, and bacon to pan, stirring to loosen browned bits. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, coarsely chop parsley and tarragon. Stir them into stew.
TIP :
This recipe for coq au vin is a fresher, green-herb-laced version of the original French classic. Serve with a crusty baguette for dunking.
Heart Healthy