What To Serve With Coq Au Vin (20 Best Side Dishes)

Coq au vin is the ultimate classic French dish that is sure to impress your guests. This delicious chicken stew, made with red wine, pearl onions, and bacon, is a Julia Child favorite and a must-try for any food lover.

But what could make a Julia Child’s coq au vin recipe even better? The perfect side dishes, of course!

That’s why I’ve curated a list of the best sides to serve with coq au vin. From roasted root vegetables and mashed potatoes to green salad and garlic bread, these sides will elevate your dining experience and complement the rich and flavorful wine sauce of the dish.

So, grab your Dutch oven or Instant Pot and get ready to create a delicious and hearty meal with these coq au vin side dishes. Bon appétit!

1. Roasted root vegetables

Roasted root vegetables are a delicious and hearty side dish that pairs perfectly with Coq au Vin, a classic French dish.

To make roasted root vegetables, toss your favorite root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes in olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.

The flavors of the roasted root vegetables complement the tender chicken pieces and rich sauce of the coq au vin. This dish is sure to impress at your next dinner party.

We love: Oven Roasted Root Vegetables (by This Healthy Table)

2. Mashed potatoes

Coq au vin is a classic French dish that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes. The creamy and buttery texture of the potatoes complements the rich and hearty flavors of the coq au vin.

To make the perfect mashed potatoes, use Russet potatoes and mash them with warm milk, butter, and a pinch of salt. For added flavor, you can also mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

This delicious side dish is a staple with Julia Child’s coq au vin recipe and is a great dish to pair with the delicious red wine sauce. So next time you make this dish, don’t forget to serve it with creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food meal.

We love: Simple Creamy Mashed Potatoes (by Olive & Mango)

3. Braised fennel

Braised fennel is a perfect side dish to serve with coq au vin. The rich flavors of the dish, with its tomato paste and chicken or beef stock base, are perfectly complemented by the subtle anise flavor of the fennel.

To prepare the fennel, simply braise it in a pan with some chicken stock and white wine, adding in some fresh thyme and bay leaves for added flavor. Let it cook until the fennel is tender and the liquid has reduced.

This delicious side dish comes together quickly and is a great option to round out a meal of Julia Child’s coq au vin and mashed potatoes.

We love: Braised Fennel (by Savor The Best)

4. Green beans

Green beans (or haricots verts) are a classic and traditional coq au vin side dish.

While the chicken simmers away, prepare the green beans by blanching them in boiling water for a few minutes and then sautéing them in a pan with butter and garlic until they are tender. This quick and easy side dish will add some fresh and vibrant flavors to the rich and flavorful coq au vin.

For a more complete meal, you can also serve roasted potatoes or a potato casserole on the side.

We love: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Green Beans (by Eatwell101)

5. Wild rice

Wild rice is a perfect side dish to serve alongside coq au vin. This classic French chicken stew pairs perfectly with the nutty and chewy texture of wild rice.

While your coq au vin is cooking, prepare your wild rice in a separate pot on medium-high heat.

The earthy flavors of the wild rice will complement the rich flavors of the coq au vin, making it a delicious side dish that feels like a true French cooking experience.

We love: Almond Wild Rice (by Joy Food Sunshine)

6. Beet salad

When it comes to finding the perfect side dish to serve with coq au vin, I highly recommend trying a beet salad.

The natural sweetness of the beets pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the traditional French dish. Plus, the vibrant colors of the beets make for a beautiful and appetizing addition to the meal.

To make a simple beet salad, toss roasted beets with a light vinaigrette, and a sprinkle of sea salt. It’s also a great way to add some color and variety to your next day’s leftover coq au vin!

We love: Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese & Pistachios (by House of Nash Eats)

7. Roasted sweet potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes are a delicious and simple side dish that pairs perfectly with coq au vin.

The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes complements the full-bodied flavors of the dish, making it a great side for this French classic.

Simply preheat your oven and toss the sweet potato wedges with some olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast until golden and tender.

This easy and flavorful side dish will have you feeling like Julia Child herself!

We love: Roasted Sweet Potatoes (by Chelsea’s Messy Apron)

8. Stuffed mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are a perfect side dish to serve with coq au vin. This classic French dish is rich and hearty, full of flavors that pair well with oven-baked stuffed mushrooms.

Make the stuffing with ingredients like bread crumbs, thyme, sea salt, and grated parmesan cheese.

We love: Classic Stuffed Mushrooms – The Genetic Chef (by The Genetic Chef)

9. Butternut squash casserole

Butternut squash casserole is a great option to serve with the classic French dish.

The natural sweetness of the butternut squash pairs well with the savory flavors of the Coq au Vin. Plus, it’s easy to make while your chicken is braising for an hour. And, leftovers make a great next-day lunch or dinner!

Serve it with some roasted Brussels sprouts or haricots verts for a complete meal.

We love: Butternut Squash Casserole (by The Cozy Apron)

10. Rice pilaf

Rice pilaf is a perfect side dish to serve with Coq au Vin, the classic French stew made with dark meat and a delicious wine sauce.

This simple side dish adds a nice balance to the rich and savory flavor of the stew. It also helps to soak up any extra sauce and adds some texture to the meal.

For a complete and traditional meal, serve your Coq au Vin with rice pilaf, roasted root vegetables, and a simple green salad. It’s like Coq au Vin and Julia Child’s Coq au Vin recipe were made for each other!

We love: Herbed Rice Pilaf (by Easy Peasy Meals)

11. Green salad

A green salad is the perfect side dish to balance out the rich and hearty flavors of the braised chicken and red wine sauce.

The green salad adds a refreshing and crisp element to the meal. You can also add some haricots verts (French green beans) or root vegetables to your salad for a more substantial side dish.

A simple vinaigrette dressing will also cut through the richness of the coq au vin sauce.

I always serve a hearty stew with some form of a green salad on the side.

We love: Best Simple Tossed Green Salad (by Creme De La Crumb)

12. Boiled potatoes

Boiled potatoes are a traditional and delicious side dish to serve with coq au vin.

Coq au vin is a slow-cooked dish, typically simmering for about an hour on low heat. This gives you plenty of time to boil some potatoes to serve alongside the main dish.

For added depth, toss the potatoes with some thyme leaves and a sprinkle of kosher or sea salt.

We love: Easy Boiled Potatoes Recipe (by NatashasKitchen.com)

13. Baked potato wedges

To complement this hearty and flavorful dish, a simple side of baked potato wedges is a perfect choice.

The crispy texture and mild flavor of the potato wedges provide a nice contrast to the rich and bold flavors of the coq au vin. Plus, they are an easy and simple side dish that allows you to focus on perfecting your main dish.

And if you have any leftovers, the baked potato wedges make an excellent side dish for enjoying the next day with the remaining coq au vin. So, don’t forget to make extra!

We love: Truly Crispy Garlic Parmesan Baked Potato Wedges Recipe (by CurryTrail)

14. Au gratin potatoes

For a classic and indulgent French side dish to accompany your coq au vin recipe, look no further than au gratin potatoes.

These scalloped potatoes are made with layers of thinly sliced red potatoes and a creamy sauce, baked to perfection with crispy golden edges.

We REALLY love: Crispy Parmesan and Gruyere Potato Gratin (by Flourishing Foodie)

15. Fennel salad

Fennel salad is the perfect side salad to serve with coq au vin.

The refreshing and crisp flavors of the fennel salad provide a light contrast to the rich and hearty chicken stew. Plus, the anise-like taste of fennel pairs well with the bold flavors of the braised chicken and red wine sauce.

To make this side dish even more French-inspired, toss the fennel with some haricots verts (French green beans) and a simple vinaigrette made with Dijon mustard and herbs de Provence.

We love: Fennel Apple Salad (by Simply Whisked)

16. Fall salad

When it comes to finding the perfect side dish for a classic French dish like coq au vin, a fall salad is a natural choice.

With its warm and comforting flavors, coq au vin pairs perfectly with a crisp and refreshing fall salad. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables, such as pumpkin or sweet potatoes and pearl onions, complements the rich and savory flavors of the dish. And, the addition of a delicious dressing, like a simple vinaigrette, will enhance the overall dining experience.

So, whether you are serving Julia Child’s coq au vin or another classic coq au vin recipe, a fall salad is the perfect side dish to round out the meal. Bon appétit!

We love: Fall Harvest Salad (by Ahead of Thyme)

17. Garlic bread

Roasted garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to the rich and flavorful coq au vin. The crispy and buttery texture of the bread complements the savory chicken and red wine sauce, making every bite a delicious experience.

Not to mention, it’s also an easy and quick side dish to add to your dinner party menu. Simply bake garlic bread on a baking sheet while your coq au vin simmers away.

Serve it on the side to soak up all the delicious wine sauce and enjoy a French classic meal.

We love: Cheesy Garlic and Herb Bread (by Melissa’s Southern Style Kitchen®)

18. French bread

When it comes to classic French side dishes for coq au vin, nothing beats a crusty loaf of French bread. Traditionally served with this classic French dish, French bread is the perfect complement to the hearty flavors of coq au vin.

As the chicken is slow-cooked in a full-bodied red wine sauce, the French bread is a great way to wipe the bowl clean.

We love: Easy Homemade French Bread Recipe (by Living On A Dime)

19. French fries

French fries may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about side dishes for coq au vin, but, let’s be honest, when is it not delicious?

The crispy and salty fries provide a satisfying contrast to the rich and savory flavors of this classic chicken dish. Plus, they are a great way to soak up any extra sauce! Think poutine vibes.

For a more traditional French touch, try making “pommes frites” – use your air fryer. Your dinner guests will certainly be impressed by this unexpected but delicious side dish for the French classic.

We love: Perfect Crispy French Fries (by RecipeTin Eats)

20. Egg noodles

Egg noodles might not be a classic choice, but they’re a great alternative to classic starches like mashed potatoes.

The rich flavors of the coq au vin, including sweet onions, chicken broth, and balsamic vinegar, pair perfectly with the tender and slightly chewy texture of egg noodles. Think of it like coq au vin ramen or Italian-style ragu.

Choose your favorite: 27 Best Egg Noodle Recipes (by Food Lovin Family)

Coq au vin is a classic French dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. While the chicken braised in a rich wine sauce steals the show, the right side dishes can elevate this dish to a whole new level.

Traditional French favorites like roasted potatoes and green beans are great options to accompany coq au vin. Paired with a light salad, some French bread, and a glass of pinot noir, this is a meal to remember!

And for a sweet finish, why not indulge in a slice of chocolate cake?