Amish Chicken & Noodles is a hearty and comforting dish that has been a staple in Amish households for generations. This dish features tender chicken, homemade noodles, and a flavorful broth that combines to create a rich, satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners, it’s a simple yet delicious recipe that showcases the heartwarming flavors of traditional Amish cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 quarts water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
Directions:
- In a large pot, combine the chicken, water, and onion. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred the meat, discarding the bones. Return the chicken to the pot.
- In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and milk together. Gradually add the egg mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into noodles.
- Drop the noodles into the pot with the chicken and simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth to make a vegetable-based noodle soup.
- Herbs and Spices: Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to the broth for extra flavor.
- Different Noodles: You can use store-bought egg noodles if you don’t have time to make them from scratch.
- Creamy Chicken & Noodles: For a creamier version, add a cup of heavy cream or milk to the broth towards the end of cooking.
Storage/Reheating:
- Storage: Leftover Amish Chicken & Noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra water or broth to loosen the noodles if needed.
10 FAQs:
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken? Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but using a whole chicken will provide more flavor to the broth.
- Can I make the noodles ahead of time? Yes, you can make the noodles ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a day or two before adding them to the pot.
- What if I don’t have time to make the noodles from scratch? You can substitute store-bought egg noodles for the homemade ones.
- Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the Amish Chicken & Noodles for up to 3 months. Just make sure the noodles are fully cooked before freezing.
- What can I do if the broth is too salty? If the broth is too salty, add more water to dilute it and adjust seasoning to taste.
- How do I know when the noodles are cooked? The noodles will become tender after about 30 minutes of simmering. Test a noodle by tasting it.
- Can I add vegetables to the dish? Yes, adding carrots, celery, or peas can enhance the flavor and add more texture to the dish.
- Is there a gluten-free option for the noodles? You can make gluten-free noodles using a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture might differ slightly from traditional noodles.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili peppers to the broth for a spicier kick.
- Can I use chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor? Yes, you can use chicken broth instead of water for a more flavorful base.
Conclusion:
Amish Chicken & Noodles is the epitome of comfort food, combining simple ingredients to create a heartwarming meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, homemade noodles, and a flavorful broth, this dish offers a satisfying taste of tradition. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or need a cozy meal on a chilly day, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and smiles to your table.