If you’re seeking the ultimate cozy comfort food for chilly evenings, look no further than Amish Chicken & Noodles. This beloved dish brings together tender bites of chicken, hearty vegetables, and generously slurp-worthy Amish-style egg noodles, all simmered to perfection in a fragrant, soul-warming broth. The combination of simple ingredients transforms into the kind of wholesome meal that brings everyone back for seconds (and maybe even thirds). Whether you grew up loving homestyle cooking or you’re just discovering the joys of slow-simmered chicken noodle goodness, Amish Chicken & Noodles is sure to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Amish Chicken & Noodles lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen to layer flavor and comfort. Every item plays its unique role, from building the savory base to creating the signature hearty texture that sets this dish apart.
- Chicken thighs or breasts: Opt for 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless pieces; thighs provide extra moisture and flavor, but breasts are perfectly delicious, too.
- Butter: That tablespoon of butter adds richness and helps the veggies to soften and develop irresistible flavor.
- Yellow onion: One small onion, chopped, gives savory depth and sweetness as it cooks down.
- Garlic: Two cloves, minced, lend gentle aromatic warmth that elevates the whole pot.
- Carrots: Three sliced carrots bring sweet earthiness and a splash of lively color.
- Celery: Two stalks, sliced, provide classic flavor and a subtle crunch that softens beautifully when cooked.
- Chicken broth: Six cups of low-sodium broth are the backbone of the soup, giving it a full-bodied, savory character.
- Amish-style egg noodles: Twelve ounces of these thick, tender noodles create the unmistakable heartiness this dish is famous for.
- Dried thyme: One teaspoon adds a gentle, woodsy note that pairs wonderfully with poultry.
- Parsley: One teaspoon, dried, gives a boost of herbal freshness.
- Salt and pepper: To taste; essential for balancing and brightening flavors as you go.
- Frozen peas (optional): If you’d like extra color and pop, stir in a cup of peas towards the end.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Chopped parsley added just before serving gives a burst of color and brightness.
How to Make Amish Chicken & Noodles
Step 1: Sauté the vegetables
Start by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onions lose their raw bite. This aromatic foundation is what creates the deep, homey flavor that everyone loves in Amish Chicken & Noodles.
Step 2: Add and season the chicken
While your vegetables are softening, season your chicken pieces with a little salt and pepper. Carefully nestle them into the pot, making sure they’re resting atop the fragrant veggie mixture. This quick sear helps lock in moisture and flavor before the broth is added.
Step 3: Pour in broth and herbs
Next, pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the dried thyme and parsley. Give everything a gentle stir so the flavors start mingling. Bring the entire pot up to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover with a lid and let it cook undisturbed for 20 to 25 minutes. The chicken becomes meltingly tender while the vegetables infuse the broth with their sweetness.
Step 4: Shred the chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked and wonderfully tender, carefully remove it from the pot. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, taking a moment to appreciate how the pieces soak up all that rich, flavorful broth—one of the secret pleasures of Amish Chicken & Noodles.
Step 5: Add the noodles and finish cooking
Stir in the Amish-style egg noodles, ensuring they’re well submerged. Let the soup simmer, uncovered, for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the noodles are dreamy and tender. If you’re adding peas, toss them in during the last five minutes so they stay bright and sweet. Taste and adjust the seasoning—sometimes a pinch more salt or fresh cracked pepper brings the whole dish to life. Right before serving, sprinkle in the fresh chopped parsley for a final hit of color and freshness.
How to Serve Amish Chicken & Noodles
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a handful of chopped fresh parsley added right before serving—it gives each bowl a bright finish that cuts through the heartiness. Cracked black pepper or a pinch of coarse salt on top can be lovely, too. For those who like a bit of richness, a dollop of cream or a drizzle of good olive oil elevates Amish Chicken & Noodles into true comfort food royalty.
Side Dishes
Amish Chicken & Noodles is super satisfying on its own, but pairing it with warm, crusty bread or homemade dinner rolls transforms it into a complete feast. A fresh, simple salad of greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness. Sautéed green beans or buttered sweet corn are also classic companions you’ll spot on many Amish dining tables.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or just want to make dinnertime special, try serving Amish Chicken & Noodles in rustic soup crocks or wide shallow bowls. For a party, ladle it into small mugs for effortless, heartwarming appetizers. You could even spoon the mixture over creamy mashed potatoes or inside a savory pie crust for an unexpected twist on this cozy favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Amish Chicken & Noodles taste incredible the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. You may notice it thickens up a bit—this is perfectly normal and just makes each spoonful heartier and more stew-like.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze Amish Chicken & Noodles in individual portions or family-sized containers. The noodles tend to absorb liquid over time, so add a splash of extra broth before freezing if you’d like to preserve a soupier consistency. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently when you’re ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, simply scoop your desired portion into a saucepan and warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If it’s become extra thick, add a splash or two of chicken broth or water to loosen things up. It’s just as inviting and delicious reheated as it is straight from the pot!
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using cooked rotisserie chicken cuts prep even further. Just shred the chicken, add it after simmering the broth and veggies, and proceed as directed with the noodles—you’ll still get wonderful Amish Chicken & Noodles flavor.
Are there gluten-free noodle alternatives?
You can easily make Amish Chicken & Noodles gluten-free by swapping out the egg noodles for your favorite gluten-free wide noodle or pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as some gluten-free varieties cook more quickly.
Can I make this creamier?
Definitely! For a creamier version, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the very end of cooking. The result is luxuriously rich and extra comforting, similar to an Amish chicken and noodles casserole.
Is it okay to add other vegetables?
Yes—you can customize Amish Chicken & Noodles based on what you have on hand. Sweet corn, diced potatoes, or even a handful of spinach stirred in at the end all work beautifully with the classic base flavors.
What’s the best way to keep the noodles from getting mushy?
The key is to simmer the noodles just until they’re cooked through and to avoid overcooking when reheating. If you anticipate leftovers, consider cooking the noodles separately and adding them to each bowl just before serving for perfect texture every time.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that brings warmth, nostalgia, and pure comfort in every bite, you simply must try Amish Chicken & Noodles. Whether you’re new to homestyle cooking or a lifelong fan, this recipe is certain to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Grab a big bowl, gather your loved ones, and savor all the old-fashioned goodness this cozy classic has to offer!
Print
Amish Chicken & Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty dish, Amish Chicken & Noodles is a traditional recipe that combines tender chicken, Amish-style egg noodles, and aromatic vegetables in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you crave a cozy, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken & Vegetables:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
Broth & Seasonings:
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 12 oz Amish-style egg noodles (or wide egg noodles)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional:
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes, until vegetables begin to soften.
- Cook Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred Chicken & Add Noodles: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir in the egg noodles and simmer uncovered for another 10–12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Finish & Serve: If using, stir in the peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Traditional Amish noodles are thick and hearty—perfect for soaking up the broth.
- For a creamier version, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the end.
- Leftovers thicken over time and can be revived with a splash of broth or water.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Amish, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
