When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the warmth and coziness of a bowl of Amish Chicken & Noodles. This classic recipe is beloved for its simple ingredients and robust flavors, combining tender chicken, rich broth, and hearty noodles into one satisfying meal. Perfect for cold winter nights, family gatherings, or any time you crave a wholesome dish, this recipe brings a taste of Amish tradition straight to your table.

Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow Amish Chicken & Noodles recipe, complete with tips and tricks to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Amish Chicken & Noodles recipe is perfect for those who love simple, hearty meals that are easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that is both flavorful and filling. The slow-simmered chicken broth, tender chunks of chicken, and delicious egg noodles create a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s a one-pot recipe, meaning fewer dishes and less cleanup — an added bonus for busy cooks!

Whether you’re serving a crowd or looking to enjoy leftovers throughout the week, this dish is versatile enough to suit any occasion. It’s also customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.

Ingredients for Amish Chicken & Noodles

To make this comforting Amish Chicken & Noodles recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

4 pounds whole chicken – Provides the base of the dish with tender, juicy meat and a rich broth.
4 quarts water – Used to create the broth in which the chicken is simmered.
¼ cup chicken broth base – Enhances the flavor of the broth; you can use bouillon or concentrate.
2 stalks celery, roughly chopped – Adds depth of flavor to the broth with a subtle vegetal note.
1 small onion, diced – Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the broth.
¼ cup parsley – Provides a fresh, herbal note to the dish.
12 ounces dried egg noodles – Traditional Amish-style noodles that soak up the broth and add a hearty texture.
10 ounces cream of chicken soup – Adds creaminess and additional chicken flavor to the noodles.
4 tablespoons butter – Provides richness and a velvety texture.
Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning to enhance and balance the flavors.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Prepare the Chicken and Broth: Begin by placing the whole chicken into a large stock pot. Add 4 quarts of water, chicken broth base, chopped celery, diced onion, and parsley. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Simmer for Maximum Flavor: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let the chicken cook for 2-3 hours. The longer you simmer, the more flavorful your broth will become. This slow-cooking process is essential to extracting all the delicious flavors from the chicken and vegetables.
Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Remove the meat from the bones and either shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set the chicken aside.
Strain the Broth: Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the broth to remove any solids. Return 4 cups of the strained broth to the pot and bring it back to a boil.
Cook the Noodles: Add the dried egg noodles to the boiling broth, then add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Cover the pot and turn off the heat. Let the noodles set for about 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Check for Doneness: Test the noodles after 30 minutes. If they are not fully tender, turn the heat back on and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until they reach your desired texture.
Finish the Dish: Stir in the cream of chicken soup and butter until the butter has fully melted. This will create a creamy, comforting sauce for the noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately, or keep the dish covered in the pot until ready to serve. The noodles will stay warm in the pan for about 30 minutes.

Pro Tips for Perfect Amish Chicken & Noodles

Simmer for Flavor: The longer you let the chicken simmer, the richer your broth will become. Aim for at least 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Stir Regularly: When letting the noodles cook in the hot broth, stir every 10 minutes to prevent them from sticking together.
Adjust Seasoning Last: Always taste and adjust the seasoning at the end to ensure the flavors are balanced. A little salt and pepper can make a big difference!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken: Simmer the chicken gently to avoid making it tough. A low simmer for a longer period helps keep it tender.
Not Straining the Broth: Straining the broth removes any bits of bone or excess fat, leading to a smoother, cleaner dish.
Skipping the Stirring: Stirring regularly during the noodle setting process prevents them from clumping and ensures even cooking.

Variations of Amish Chicken & Noodles

Vegetable Additions: Add diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition.
Noodle Swaps: While egg noodles are traditional, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as bowties or fettuccine.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat, or sprinkle with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Serve with Sides: Pair with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or warm dinner rolls for a complete meal.
Use a Decorative Bowl: Present this comforting dish in a rustic bowl to enhance its homestyle appeal.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large stock pot
Fine mesh strainer
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Wooden spoon or ladle

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezer: This dish freezes well. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair Amish Chicken & Noodles with a side of homemade applesauce, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots for a complete, comforting meal. Enjoy with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, but using a whole chicken provides a richer broth and more depth of flavor.

Q: How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Substitute the egg noodles with a gluten-free pasta and ensure that the chicken broth base and cream of chicken soup are gluten-free.

Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, peas, or mushrooms, to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

This Amish Chicken & Noodles recipe is a warm, comforting dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Its rich, savory flavors and hearty texture make it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience with us! If you enjoyed this recipe, please subscribe to our blog for more delicious comfort food ideas.

Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe