Nothing says “home” quite like a bowl of Amish Chicken & Noodles, with its tender shreds of chicken, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and hearty vegetables all floating in a mouthwatering broth. This dish is the epitome of Midwestern comfort food—simple, rustic, and brimming with old-fashioned goodness. Whether you’re cooking to warm up a chilly evening or to create a welcoming meal for friends and family, Amish Chicken & Noodles brings nostalgia and happiness to every spoonful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Amish Chicken & Noodles comes together with a handful of everyday ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in developing the signature flavor and comforting texture of this classic. From the humble chicken to the creamy drizzle at the end, here’s why you’ll want to pick quality ingredients for the most memorable results.
- Whole chicken (about 3–4 pounds): The star of the show provides deep, rich flavor and plenty of tender meat for the dish.
- Water (10 cups): Forms the base of your homemade broth, allowing every ingredient to shine.
- Salt (1 tablespoon): Essential for seasoning, it helps bring out the savory notes in the broth and chicken.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of warmth and a subtle kick.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Gives depth to the broth without overpowering other flavors.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory backbone of the soup for that classic home-cooked taste.
- Bay leaf (1): Lends a gentle earthy aroma—the kind that makes your kitchen smell amazing.
- Carrots (3 large, sliced): Add cheerful pops of color, natural sweetness, and tender bites throughout.
- Celery stalks (2, chopped): Give the broth freshness and that homemade “stew” quality.
- Small onion (1, diced): Builds up the base flavors and melds beautifully into the broth.
- Egg noodles (12 ounces, preferably Amish-style): Authentic, hearty noodles that soak up the broth and make each bite irresistible.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds a glossy finish and a hit of buttery flavor in the final step.
- Whole milk or heavy cream (1/2 cup, optional): For those who crave a luxurious, silky texture—you’ll love this addition.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Brightens the bowl and brings a pop of green freshness to the finish.
How to Make Amish Chicken & Noodles
Step 1: Simmer the Chicken and Make the Broth
Start by gently placing your whole chicken in a large stockpot, then pour in 10 cups of water. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bay leaf to build flavor right from the start. Bring it all to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Let the chicken cook for about an hour—your house will smell incredible as the flavors meld and the chicken becomes perfectly tender.
Step 2: Remove Chicken and Strain the Broth
Once the chicken is cooked through and practically falling off the bone, carefully transfer it to a plate or cutting board to cool slightly. Strain the broth to remove any bits or foam, getting you a golden, clear base just waiting for veggies and noodles. Pour the broth right back into your pot to keep every drop of savory flavor.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
To your beautiful broth, add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced onion. These classic veggies soften as they simmer, infusing the broth with loads of sweetness and depth in just 15 to 20 minutes. While they cook, move on to prepping your chicken.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once it’s cool enough to handle, remove the skin and bones from your chicken, and then shred the meat into generous, bite-sized pieces. The tenderness you’ll find is unbeatable, and you’ll have plenty to make the noodles hearty and filling.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Noodles
Now comes the magic: slip the shredded chicken and egg noodles into the bubbling pot. Simmer for another 10 to 12 minutes until the noodles are plump and perfectly cooked, soaking up all those rich flavors. If you love a thicker, stew-like texture, let things cook uncovered a little longer, or stir in a quick cornstarch slurry.
Step 6: Finish with Butter and Cream (Optional), Adjust Seasoning
For that unmistakably rich finish, stir in a tablespoon of butter and, if you like, the half-cup of milk or cream. This step transforms the broth into a lush, silky sauce that clings to every noodle. Taste and adjust seasonings so every spoonful sings. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshly herby aroma.
How to Serve Amish Chicken & Noodles
Garnishes
Garnish is where you can make your Amish Chicken & Noodles truly shine. A shower of fresh chopped parsley adds a lively green contrast to the golden broth. For extra flavor, consider a few cracks of black pepper or a pinch of flaky sea salt just before bringing the bowl to the table.
Side Dishes
This comforting dish loves to be paired with good, old-fashioned sides. Serve it alongside warm, crusty bread, fluffy dinner rolls, or homemade biscuits for soaking up every last drop. A crisp green salad on the side balances the richness and adds a fresh crunch to every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your guests (or just have extra fun at mealtime) by serving Amish Chicken & Noodles in oven-warmed bowls, topped with extra veggies or a swirl of cream. For a rustic touch, ladle it into mini cast-iron pots or even hollowed bread bowls—it’s a feast for the eyes as much as the taste buds!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Amish Chicken & Noodles is just as tasty the next day, making it a superstar for meal prep. Transfer cooled leftovers to airtight containers, and pop them in the fridge. The flavors intensify and the noodles soak up even more broth, making for an even heartier meal tomorrow. For best results, enjoy within three to four days.
Freezing
Want to make life easier later on? This recipe freezes beautifully! Spoon cooled Amish Chicken & Noodles into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving a bit of space for expansion. Store for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for easy weeknight comfort.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen up the noodles if needed. The microwave works in a pinch, too—just use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely so it heats evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken breasts or thighs instead of a whole chicken?
You absolutely can, though a whole chicken will give you the richest broth and a mix of white and dark meat. If using boneless cuts, just simmer them until tender and adjust the total cook time as they’ll likely be done faster.
What if I don’t have Amish-style egg noodles?
Regular egg noodles or even wide fettuccine will work in a pinch, but homestyle Amish noodles offer a heartier, chewier texture that really makes Amish Chicken & Noodles special.
How do I thicken the broth for a stew-like consistency?
Simmer the pot uncovered to reduce the liquid, or whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it in near the end for a thicker, more luxurious base.
Can I make Amish Chicken & Noodles in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Cook the chicken, seasonings, water, and vegetables on low for 6–8 hours, then shred the chicken, add noodles, and cook until they’re tender. Finish with butter and milk or cream as directed.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
You can simply skip the butter and milk (or opt for plant-based alternatives) at the end—the broth will still have plenty of rich, comforting flavor, true to classic Amish Chicken & Noodles.
Final Thoughts
If you crave a meal that wraps you in a blanket of warmth and nostalgia, you owe it to yourself to try Amish Chicken & Noodles. It’s a bowl of pure comfort that brings people together, whether for a special gathering or just a cozy night at home. Go ahead—make this your new family favorite!
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
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty dish, Amish Chicken & Noodles is a classic recipe featuring tender chicken, flavorful broth, and homestyle Amish egg noodles. This dish is perfect for cooler days when you crave a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Whole Chicken 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
Additional Ingredients:
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 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 Chicken Broth: In a large stockpot, combine the whole chicken, water, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 1 hour.
- Cook Vegetables: Remove the chicken, strain the broth, and return it to the pot. Add carrots, celery, and onion. Simmer until vegetables are tender.
- Shred Chicken: Shred the cooked chicken, discarding skin and bones.
- Add Noodles: Add shredded chicken and egg noodles to the pot. Simmer until noodles are cooked.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in butter and milk/cream if using. Adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a thicker consistency, reduce broth or add a cornstarch slurry.
- This dish freezes well for meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
