For Coq au Chardonnay, it's best to use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces like thighs and drumsticks. The bone adds extra flavor to the dish, while the skin helps keep the chicken moist and tender during the slow cooking process. Opting for organic or free-range chicken will enhance the taste and quality of your dish. Remember to pat the chicken dry before seasoning and browning it, as this will help achieve a beautiful golden crust and lock in the flavors.