If you’ve ever dreamed of a bowl that wraps you up in cozy, home-cooked comfort, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with warm, inviting aromas and offers tender chicken, velvety noodles, and a broth bursting with rich, homemade flavor. Each bite feels like a loving hug from a dear friend, combining simple, soulful ingredients in a way that just can’t be beaten. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a special family dinner, this classic Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe delivers a hearty, nourishing meal you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe shines because of its straightforward and wholesome ingredients. Each element plays a key role, whether adding depth to the broth, sweetness to the veggies, or that perfect silky noodle texture.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Provides tender, juicy meat packed with flavor and protein.
- 8 cups chicken broth: The foundation that infuses the dish with savory richness and warmth.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base to the broth.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a gentle bite and deepens the overall flavor.
- 2 carrots (sliced): Brings a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks (sliced): Adds fresh, slightly peppery notes and crunch.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Enriches and rounds out the sautéed vegetables with creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy, herbal undertone that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1 bay leaf: Infuses a subtle depth during simmering.
- 12 ounces Amish-style egg noodles: These wide, soft noodles soak up the broth perfectly for a soul-satisfying bite.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, optional): Provides a fresh, bright finish for garnish.
How to Make Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery, then sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. The gentle cooking releases their natural sweetness, creating the perfect flavor base. Finish this step by stirring in the minced garlic for just one more minute to avoid any bitterness but keep all its wonderful aroma.
Step 2: Simmer the Chicken and Broth
Next, add the chicken thighs or breasts right into the pot along with the chicken broth, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, and bay leaf. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the herbal flavors. This step builds the rich, comforting broth that makes this Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe so special.
Step 3: Shred and Return the Chicken
Once the chicken is tender, carefully remove it and the bay leaf from the pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back to the broth, mixing it gently to combine the flavors fully before moving on to the noodles.
Step 4: Cook the Amish-Style Egg Noodles
Bring the broth back to a gentle boil and stir in the Amish-style egg noodles. Cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the noodles reach that perfect tender texture that soaks up all the delicious broth. Be sure to give the pot an occasional stir to keep the noodles from sticking to the bottom while they cook.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Garnish
Give your Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe a final taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. For an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle the chopped parsley right on top just before serving. This little green pop brings the whole dish together beautifully.
How to Serve Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish for this dish, adding a touch of color and brightness that complements the rich broth. If you’re feeling creative, a small dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream before serving can add a lovely creaminess that transforms this dish from comforting to indulgent.
Side Dishes
Serve your Amish Chicken & Noodles alongside a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to balance out the meal with some freshness. Soft, crusty bread is always a winner to mop up every drop of that wonderful broth, making each bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy gathering, serve this dish family-style straight from the pot on the table, letting everyone help themselves to generous bowls. Alternatively, ladle it into wide soup bowls and garnish each with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a few crisp bacon bits to add exciting textures and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe reheats beautifully, making it excellent for leftovers. Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As the dish sits, the broth thickens and the flavors deepen, making each spoonful even more comforting the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that egg noodles may become a bit softer upon thawing. To freeze, place the cooled chicken and noodle mixture in freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the noodles have absorbed too much liquid and feel thick. This will revive the silky consistency of the broth for a delicious second meal.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken from scratch?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time while still delivering great flavor. Just skip the simmering step, shred the cooked chicken, and add it to the broth when you cook the noodles.
What if I can’t find Amish-style egg noodles?
Don’t worry if Amish-style egg noodles aren’t available. Wide egg noodles or even fresh pasta ribbons make a great substitute and will soak up the broth just as nicely, keeping the heartiness intact.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan margarine. The stew still develops wonderful flavor without any compromise.
Is it okay to use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Definitely. Both thighs and breasts work well, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender during simmering. If you use breasts, just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid dryness.
How can I make the broth richer?
For a richer broth, add a splash of heavy cream or stir in a dollop of sour cream just before serving. This adds a velvety, luscious quality that takes the Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe up a notch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about gathering around a steaming bowl of Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe—a meal that blends simplicity, warmth, and deliciousness all in one. Its rich broth, tender chicken, and comforting noodles speak to the heart and bring people together. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and let it become a cherished favorite in your own kitchen. Trust me, you’ll soon find it hard to resist going back for seconds!
Print
Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Amish Chicken & Noodles recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich broth with vegetables and homemade-style egg noodles, creating a comforting, hearty meal perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 12 ounces Amish-style egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery, and sauté for 4–5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Simmer Chicken and Broth: Add the chicken pieces, chicken broth, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, and the bay leaf into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for 20–25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken and bay leaf from the pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded chicken to the broth.
- Cook Noodles: Bring the pot back to a gentle boil. Stir in the Amish-style egg noodles and cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- This dish thickens as it cools, so it’s even better the next day as leftovers.
- For a quicker preparation, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and store-bought chicken broth.
- For a richer and creamier flavor, stir in a splash of heavy cream or add a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
