Amish Chicken & Noodles

Introduction:

Step into the heart of traditional Amish cuisine with Amish Chicken & Noodles, a comforting dish that embodies the warmth and simplicity of home-cooked meals. Rooted in the rich culinary heritage of the Amish community, this beloved recipe combines tender chicken, homemade noodles, and flavorful broth to create a dish that’s as hearty as it is delicious. In this article, we’ll explore the time-honored tradition of Amish Chicken & Noodles, share a mouthwatering recipe, and offer insights into why this dish has stood the test of time.

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. The comforting aroma and warmth of the dish add to the overall dining experience.
2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish each bowl of Amish Chicken & Noodles with freshly chopped parsley or other herbs for a pop of color and added freshness.
3. Pair with Comforting Sides: Serve the chicken and noodles alongside comforting sides such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to create a satisfying meal.

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 warmed 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 texture 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: Amish Chicken & Noodles can be frozen for longer storage. Place the cooled chicken and noodles in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
5. Thaw Before Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen Amish Chicken & Noodles, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat as directed above until warmed through before serving.

FAQs:

1. Can I use boneless chicken for Amish Chicken & Noodles? While bone-in chicken adds flavor to the broth, boneless chicken can be used if preferred. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
2. Can I make homemade noodles without a pasta machine? Yes, homemade noodles can be made without a pasta machine. Simply roll out the dough thinly with a rolling pin and cut it into strips using a knife or pizza cutter.
3. Can I freeze leftover Amish Chicken & Noodles? Yes, leftover Amish Chicken & Noodles can be frozen for later use. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. Can I add vegetables to Amish Chicken & Noodles? Yes, additional vegetables such as carrots, celery, or peas can be added to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition. Simply chop the vegetables and add them to the broth while cooking.
5. Can I make Amish Chicken & Noodles ahead of time? Yes, the dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store the cooked chicken and noodles separately from the broth to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy.

Conclusion:

Amish Chicken & Noodles is a timeless dish that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Amish community, offering a taste of tradition and comfort with every spoonful. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with family and friends at a gathering, this hearty and satisfying meal is sure to warm your heart and soul. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and soul-warming broth, Amish Chicken & Noodles is a true testament to the enduring power of tradition and the joy of gathering around the table with loved ones. So why not bring a taste of Amish tradition into your own kitchen and savor the simple pleasures of this beloved dish?