Amish Chicken & Noodles

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Introduction:

Experience the hearty and wholesome flavors of traditional Amish cuisine with Amish Chicken & Noodles, a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, homemade noodles, and a rich broth for a satisfying meal that warms the soul. Rooted in simplicity and tradition, this classic recipe has been passed down through generations, offering a taste of old-fashioned comfort with every spoonful. In this article, we’ll delve into the culinary heritage of Amish Chicken & Noodles, explore its timeless appeal, and guide you through the steps to recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds), cut into pieces

– 8 cups chicken broth

– 2 onions, chopped

– 4 carrots, peeled and sliced

– 4 celery stalks, sliced

– 3 garlic cloves, minced

– 2 bay leaves

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 16 ounces wide egg noodles

– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken pieces, chicken broth, chopped onions, sliced carrots, sliced celery, minced garlic, bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  3. Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat and discard the bones and skin. Return the shredded chicken meat to the pot.
  4. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the broth back to a boil. Add the wide egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  5. Once the noodles are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and discard the bay leaves.
  6. Serve the Amish Chicken & Noodles hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
  7. Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 to 1 1/2 hours | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes
  8. Kcal: 350 kcal per serving | Servings: Serves 6-8

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve Hot and Fresh: Amish Chicken & Noodles is best enjoyed piping hot, straight from the stove. Serve it immediately after cooking to preserve the flavors and textures.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish each bowl of Amish Chicken & Noodles with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added freshness.
  3. Pair with Crusty Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread or homemade biscuits alongside the chicken and noodles to soak up the delicious broth and add a comforting element to the meal.
  4. Serve in Individual Bowls: For a cozy and inviting presentation, ladle individual servings of chicken and noodles into bowls and garnish each one with a sprinkle of black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigerate Leftovers: If you have any leftover Amish Chicken & Noodles, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or refrigeration-safe bowl. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  2. Reheat Before Serving: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the chicken and noodles gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent the noodles from drying out.
  3. Store Chicken and Noodles Separately: To maintain the integrity of the noodles, consider storing the chicken and noodles separately in the refrigerator. Reheat them together when ready to serve.
  4. Freeze for Longer Storage: While chicken and noodles can be frozen, the texture of the noodles may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, store the chicken and noodles in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use boneless chicken for Amish Chicken & Noodles? Yes, boneless chicken can be used in this recipe, but bone-in chicken typically adds more flavor to the broth. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if using boneless chicken to ensure it’s cooked through.
  2. Can I make the noodles ahead of time? Yes, you can make the homemade noodles ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked noodles for longer storage.
  3. What is the difference between Amish Chicken & Noodles and Chicken Noodle Soup? While both dishes feature chicken and noodles in a broth, Amish Chicken & Noodles typically has a thicker broth and uses homemade egg noodles, giving it a heartier and more comforting texture compared to the lighter broth of Chicken Noodle Soup.
  4. Can I add vegetables to Amish Chicken & Noodles? Yes, you can add vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions to the broth for added flavor and nutrition. Simply chop the vegetables and add them to the pot along with the chicken and broth.
  5. Is there a vegetarian version of Amish Chicken & Noodles? While the traditional recipe contains chicken, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead. Add extra vegetables or tofu for protein, and adjust the seasonings to taste.

Conclusion:

Amish Chicken & Noodles is a timeless dish that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Amish community, offering a taste of old-fashioned comfort and warmth with every spoonful. With its tender chicken, homemade noodles, and flavorful broth, this beloved recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household for generations to come. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with family and friends at a gathering, Amish Chicken & Noodles embodies the essence of rustic charm and heartfelt hospitality. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and savor the simple pleasures of this classic comfort food dish.

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