Chicken with Riesling

4 SERVINGS

5 tablespoons unsalted butter
One 31/2-pound chicken, quartered
Salt and freshly ground pepper 
1 large shallot, minced 
2 tablespoons Cognac 
1 cup dry Riesling
6 ounces white mushrooms, sliced 1/4 inch thick
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/3 cup heavy cream

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper and cook over moderate heat until slightly browned, about 4 minutes per side. Add the shallot and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the Cognac and carefully ignite it with a long match. When the flames subside, add the Riesling, cover and simmer over low heat until the chicken breasts are just cooked, about 25 minutes. Transfer the breasts to a large plate and cover with foil. Cover and simmer the legs until cooked through, about 10 minutes longer. Transfer to the plate. 

2. Meanwhile, in a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and cook over low heat until the liquid evaporates, about 7 minutes. Increase the heat to moderate and cook, stirring, until browned, about 3 minutes. 

3. In a bowl, blend the flour and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir the cream into the large skillet; bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk the flour paste into the cooking liquid and simmer, whisking, until no floury taste remains, 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Return the chicken to the skillet, add the mushrooms and briefly reheat.