Amish Chicken and Noodles is the definition of homestyle comfort food. Tender chicken and hearty egg noodles simmer together in a rich, savory broth until they form a thick, satisfying stew. This traditional Midwestern favorite tastes even better when spooned generously over creamy mashed potatoes. Whether you plan a cozy family dinner or simply want an easy chicken recipe that feeds a crowd, this Amish Chicken and Noodles delivers classic flavor with simple ingredients.

Story

Growing up, Amish Chicken and Noodles meant Sunday afternoons, a large pot bubbling on the stove, and the unmistakable aroma of slow-simmered broth filling the kitchen. Unlike a thin soup, this dish turns into a thick stew as the noodles absorb the flavorful stock. That hearty texture makes Amish Chicken and Noodles stand apart from other chicken recipes.

Families often serve Amish Chicken and Noodles over mashed potatoes, creating a double layer of comfort that feels generous and satisfying. Because the chicken simmers slowly, it develops deep flavor while staying tender. Meanwhile, the noodles soak up every drop of the rich broth. As a result, you get a meal that feels substantial yet simple.

Even today, I prepare Amish Chicken and Noodles when I want something warm, filling, and dependable. It works perfectly for cold evenings, potlucks, or anytime you crave traditional comfort cooking.

Ingredients

4 pounds whole chicken
4 quarts water
¼ cup chicken broth base
2 stalks celery, roughly chopped
1 small onion, diced
¼ cup parsley
12 ounces dried Amish-style egg noodles
10 ounces cream of chicken soup
4 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Place the whole chicken into a large stockpot. Add the water, chicken broth base, chopped celery, diced onion, and parsley. Bring everything to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot. Allow the chicken to simmer for 2 to 3 hours. The longer it cooks, the richer the broth becomes.

Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool slightly. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer to remove vegetables and solids. Return 4 cups of the strained broth to the pot and bring it back to a boil. Meanwhile, remove the meat from the bones and shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Cooking Instructions

Once the broth reaches a boil, add the egg noodles and shredded chicken. Cover the pot and turn off the heat. Let the noodles sit in the hot broth for about 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes so they cook evenly and thicken the mixture.

After 30 minutes, test the noodles. If they need more time, turn the heat back on and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until tender. Stir in the cream of chicken soup and butter. Continue stirring until the butter melts completely and the broth transforms into a thick stew. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or keep covered on low heat for up to 30 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not rush the simmering process. If you shorten the cooking time, the broth will lack depth and richness. Also, avoid adding too much broth back into the pot. Amish Chicken and Noodles should resemble a thick stew, not a thin soup. Finally, stir the noodles during resting time to prevent clumping and uneven cooking.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use Amish-style egg noodles in thick-cut varieties for authentic texture. Additionally, allow the dish to rest briefly before serving so the noodles absorb even more flavor. For extra richness, serve this thick stew over buttery mashed potatoes as a hearty mashed potatoes topping. Fresh cracked black pepper just before serving also boosts the savory profile.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Spoon Amish Chicken and Noodles generously over a mound of creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort experience. You can also serve it on its own in deep bowls with crusty bread on the side. Because this dish is filling, simple sides like green beans or a crisp salad balance the meal perfectly.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As it sits, the noodles will continue absorbing broth, making the mixture thicker. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the texture. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

Amish Chicken and Noodles brings timeless comfort to your table with tender chicken, rich broth, and hearty noodles. Its thick texture and classic preparation make it ideal for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. If you crave dependable, satisfying comfort cooking, this recipe deserves a place in your regular rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs. However, cooking a whole chicken creates a deeper, richer broth that defines authentic Amish Chicken and Noodles.

Why are my noodles too thick?

The noodles absorb liquid as they rest. If the mixture becomes too thick, stir in additional warm broth until you reach your preferred consistency.

Can I freeze Amish Chicken and Noodles?

You can freeze it, but the noodles may soften slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the broth and chicken separately, then cook fresh noodles when ready to serve.