If you have ever craved a warm, hearty, and soul-soothing dish that reminds you of home, then this Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. Tender chicken slowly simmered to perfection, nestled in a rich broth full of fragrant herbs and fresh vegetables, paired with soft, melt-in-your-mouth egg noodles make this meal an absolute delight for any day of the week. This recipe brings the authentic essence of Amish cooking right into your kitchen, promising a satisfying, wholesome experience that fills your heart as much as your belly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe shines in its simplicity, with every ingredient playing a crucial role. Each component adds layers of flavor, texture, or color, making the dish feel both homemade and lovingly crafted.
- Whole chicken (about 3–4 pounds): The base for a rich, flavorful broth and tender meat to shred.
- Water (10 cups): To create that essential simmering liquid, turning into a savory chicken stock.
- Salt (1 tablespoon): Brings out and balances all the flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle, warming spice without overpowering.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses the broth with subtle depth and aroma.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory profile subtly but effectively.
- Bay leaf (1): Introduces a delicate herbal note that elevates the broth’s complexity.
- Carrots (3 large, sliced): Provide sweetness and a pop of color for visual appeal.
- Celery stalks (2, chopped): Add crunch and a classic aromatic base for the broth.
- Small onion (1, diced): Brings sweetness and texture to the dish.
- Egg noodles (12 ounces, preferably homestyle Amish-style): The perfect tender noodles that soak up the broth’s goodness.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Gives a silky finish to the broth enhancing richness.
- Whole milk or heavy cream (1/2 cup, optional): For those who want a creamy, luxe texture in their noodles.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens every bite.
How to Make Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Broth
Start by placing the whole chicken in a large stockpot and adding water, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and the bay leaf. Bringing this mixture to a gentle boil fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that signals comfort is on the way. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and allow the chicken to cook for about an hour until tender and falling off the bone.
Step 2: Remove and Strain
Carefully take the chicken out of the pot and place it aside to cool just enough to handle. Pour the broth through a fine strainer or sieve to remove any solids, leftover herbs, or bits of chicken bits. Return your clear, rich broth back to the pot—this will be the flavorful base for your stew.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced onion to the broth. Simmer these hearty vegetables for 15 to 20 minutes until they are soft yet still hold a little bite, infusing the broth with a fresh, earthy sweetness and adding texture to the dish.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
While the veggies cook, shred the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces, removing the skin and bones. This step is crucial because the tender chicken will soak up the flavors of the broth and noodles, making every bite special.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Noodles
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the egg noodles. Let everything simmer for another 10 to 12 minutes, or until noodles are tender yet firm enough to hold their shape. This step magically blends the ingredients as noodles absorb the savory broth and chicken pieces.
Step 6: Finish with Butter and Cream
For that classic velvety finish, stir in the butter and, if you want a richer, creamier texture, add whole milk or heavy cream. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before removing from heat.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a lively burst of color and a touch of herbal freshness that makes this Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe truly irresistible.
How to Serve Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Simple is best when it comes to garnishing this classic dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of green but also enhances the flavor with its bright, slightly peppery notes. A tiny drizzle of butter on top before serving can heighten the luscious texture and aroma, making each serving inviting and warm.
Side Dishes
Since the Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe is a hearty main, light and fresh sides complement it well. Crisp garden salads with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts create a lovely balance. For a true Amish-inspired meal, serve alongside warm crusty bread or homemade dinner rolls to sop up every last bit of that beautiful broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this comforting dish into a centerpiece by serving it in rustic bowls that accentuate the homestyle charm. Garnish with a small sprig of parsley and a few thinly sliced carrots for color contrast. For special occasions, offer small bowls of freshly ground black pepper or crushed red pepper to customize the spice level at the table, making everyone feel pampered and cared for.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making the next day’s servings just as delightful, if not better. Re-stir before reheating to redistribute those comforting ingredients evenly.
Freezing
This recipe freezes exceptionally well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Portion the chicken and noodle stew into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Label and date them; they will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth if the noodles absorb too much liquid and the dish becomes too thick. Avoid reheating in a microwave for large portions to maintain the homemade texture and avoid overcooked noodles.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind that the broth might not be as rich and flavorful since the bones and skin contribute a lot to the depth of the broth. Using a whole chicken will always give you that signature Amish richness.
What type of egg noodles should I use?
For the most authentic experience, choose homestyle Amish-style egg noodles if available, as they have a wider, chewier texture perfect for soaking up the broth. Regular egg noodles work well too, but try to avoid thin or delicate varieties that might get mushy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! The butter and cream are optional. You can skip the cream altogether or substitute with a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk if you prefer a creamy texture without dairy.
How can I thicken the broth?
If you want a thicker, stew-like consistency, simmer the broth uncovered to reduce the liquid or add a cornstarch slurry made with 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed into 2 tablespoons cold water. Stir it in and cook until the broth thickens to your liking.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing and meal prep?
Definitely! Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe freezes beautifully, making it an easy option for busy weeks. Just be sure to store in portion-sized containers for convenient reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe is truly the heart of comfort on a plate. It’s the kind of meal you want to make again and again—each time savoring the warmth, tradition, and pure satisfaction it brings. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to something special, this recipe is a timeless classic that welcomes you home with every bite. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a treasured staple in your kitchen!
Print
Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Amish Chicken & Noodles recipe features tender shredded chicken simmered in a flavorful homemade broth with hearty egg noodles and fresh vegetables. Rich and comforting, this dish is perfect for a wholesome family meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 pounds)
- 10 cups water
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 bay leaf
Vegetables
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
Noodles and Finishing Touches
- 12 ounces egg noodles (preferably homestyle Amish-style noodles)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream (optional for creamier texture)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth: Place the whole chicken in a large stockpot with the water, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 1 hour or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Remove and Strain: Using tongs or a slotted spoon, remove the chicken and set it aside to cool slightly. Strain the broth through a fine sieve or colander to remove solids, then return the clear broth to the pot.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced onion to the clear broth. Simmer for 15–20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender but still hold their shape.
- Shred the Chicken: While the vegetables are cooking, shred the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones.
- Add Noodles and Chicken: Add the shredded chicken and egg noodles directly into the simmering broth with vegetables. Continue to cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender but not overcooked.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the butter and milk or heavy cream if you prefer a richer, creamier broth. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt or pepper.
- Serve: Ladle the chicken and noodles into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a thicker stew-like consistency, simmer the broth uncovered to reduce it or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) while stirring until thickened.
- This dish freezes well, making it convenient for meal prep and future quick meals.
- Use homestyle Amish-style egg noodles if possible, or substitute with any wide egg noodles for authenticity.
- Optional cream adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter broth.
