Chicken and Amish noodles—a comforting classic that’s both hearty and delicious. This dish, often featuring tender chicken in a creamy, dreamy sauce served over egg noodles, is a family favorite for a reason. But what makes a truly great Chicken and Amish Noodles recipe? Let's dive into the details to elevate your culinary game.
This comprehensive guide will not only provide you with a fantastic recipe but also answer frequently asked questions surrounding this beloved dish. We'll explore variations, ingredient substitutions, and tips for achieving the perfect creamy texture and rich flavor.
What are Amish Noodles?
Before we get to the recipe, let's clarify what "Amish noodles" actually are. The term doesn't refer to a specific type of noodle but rather highlights the dish's connection to Amish cooking traditions. Amish cooking emphasizes simple, wholesome ingredients and straightforward preparation methods, resulting in comforting and flavorful meals. In this context, "Amish noodles" typically refers to wide egg noodles, often homemade, contributing to the dish's hearty and satisfying nature. You can, of course, use store-bought wide egg noodles successfully.
The Best Chicken and Amish Noodles Recipe
This recipe yields about 6 servings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
Instructions:
- Cook the noodles: Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Stir in cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
- Combine everything: Reduce heat to low and add cooked chicken and noodles to the sauce. Stir to combine and heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Serve immediately and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Amish Noodles Even Better
Here are some tips to elevate your Chicken and Amish Noodles:
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley will add a brighter, more nuanced flavor profile than dried herbs.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the dish's nutritional value and flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms, carrots, or peas.
- Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a pleasant kick.
- Use homemade noodles: If you're feeling ambitious, making your own wide egg noodles will amplify the dish's homemade goodness.
- Thicken the sauce: If your sauce is too thin, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken it to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of noodles are best for Amish Chicken Noodles?
Wide egg noodles are the classic choice for Amish chicken noodles, providing a hearty and substantial base for the creamy sauce.
Can I use different kinds of soup?
While cream of mushroom and cream of chicken are traditional, you can experiment with other cream-based soups like cream of celery or cream of potato for a unique twist.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the noodles just before serving and combine everything for a quick and easy meal.
How do I make the sauce creamier?
Adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end can increase the creaminess. You could also use full-fat milk instead of low-fat for a richer sauce.
Are there any variations of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add different vegetables, proteins (like sausage or turkey), or cheeses to customize the recipe to your taste. Consider adding a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to craft the perfect Chicken and Amish Noodles. Enjoy this comforting classic, and don't hesitate to experiment with your own variations!
