Amish Chicken and Noodles is the epitome of comfort food, with tender chicken, savory broth, and hearty noodles. This easy-to-make slow cooker recipe captures the authentic, homestyle flavors of the Amish kitchen without needing to spend hours over the stove. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights, family dinners, or any time you crave something warm and soothing.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream (optional, for a creamy texture)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- In the slow cooker, add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Place the chicken breasts or thighs on top of the onions and garlic. Season generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried parsley.
Step 2: Add Broth and Soup
- Pour the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup over the chicken.
- Stir gently to combine the soup and broth. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Cook on low heat for 6-7 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the broth mixture.
Step 4: Add Noodles
- Add the egg noodles to the slow cooker. Stir to make sure the noodles are submerged in the broth.
- Cover and cook for an additional 30-40 minutes on high, or until the noodles are tender.
- If desired, add the whole milk or heavy cream to create a creamier consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Stir the chicken and noodles one last time, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Broth Quantity: If you like a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of chicken broth to 3 cups. If you prefer more of a soup-like dish, add an extra cup of broth.
- Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles work best in this recipe, but you can use any kind of noodles you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
- Creamy Version: Adding whole milk or heavy cream in the final step gives a rich, creamy finish to the dish, but it’s optional.
Variations
- Vegetable Addition: Add vegetables like sliced carrots, celery, or frozen peas for added texture and nutrition.
- Herb Substitutions: Replace thyme and parsley with rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles and ensure your cream of chicken soup is also gluten-free.
- Instant Pot Version: You can make this recipe in an Instant Pot by cooking the chicken, broth, and seasonings on high pressure for 15 minutes. Then add the noodles and cook on “Sauté” mode until tender.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked shredded chicken to save time. Just reduce the cooking time accordingly, and add the chicken during the final 30 minutes to heat through.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze Amish Chicken and Noodles?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
4. Can I Use Bone-In Chicken?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will add more flavor. Just remove the bones when shredding the chicken after cooking.
This Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles recipe is all about cozy, comforting flavors with minimal effort. The tender chicken, flavorful broth, and hearty noodles come together beautifully in your slow cooker, allowing you to have a warm, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a wonderful recipe that brings the taste of Amish country to your table, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and experience the comfort of a homestyle meal that’s easy enough for even the busiest of days.
