If you’re craving a cozy, stick-to-your-ribs meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles is exactly what you need. This classic Amish-inspired dish brings together tender chicken, silky noodles, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s ideal for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or whenever you want a wholesome comfort meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
What Makes Amish Chicken and Noodles Special
Amish cuisine is known for its simplicity, heartiness, and reliance on fresh ingredients. The magic of this recipe lies in the slow cooker, which allows the flavors of the chicken, herbs, and broth to meld over hours, producing melt-in-your-mouth noodles and deeply flavorful chicken. Unlike traditional recipes that require stovetop attention, this slow cooker version frees up your time while still delivering an irresistible dish.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this easy and delicious slow cooker meal:
- 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp paprika
- 8 oz wide egg noodles, uncooked
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or chives
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and parsley. Add diced onion and minced garlic for extra flavor.
Step 2: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is mostly submerged. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is tender and cooked through, please remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Add the uncooked egg noodles directly into the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure noodles are submerged in the broth. Cook on high for 20–25 minutes, or until noodles are tender.
Step 5: Add Cream and Finish
Stir in the heavy cream to give the dish a creamy, rich texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Spoon the creamy chicken and noodles into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Amish Chicken and Noodles
- Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor: If you don’t mind a little extra work, bone-in chicken adds depth to the broth.
- Vegetable boost: Add carrots or peas for extra color, texture, and nutrition.
- Make it ahead: Prepare it the night before and reheat gently; the flavors develop even more overnight.
- Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off cooking: Let your slow cooker do all the work.
- Family-friendly: Creamy, tender, and flavorful – kids and adults love it alike.
- Customizable: Easily add vegetables or seasonings to your taste.
- Comfort food at its best: A perfect cozy meal for any day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes! Shred cooked rotisserie chicken and add it during the last 20 minutes of noodle cooking.
Q2: Can I use gluten-free noodles?
Absolutely! Adjust cooking time based on package instructions for the best texture.
Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative.
Q4: Can I make it on the stovetop instead?
Yes, cook chicken in a large pot with broth until tender, then add noodles and cook until done.
Q5: How do I prevent noodles from overcooking?
Add noodles toward the end of cooking and check for doneness every few minutes.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles is a simple yet soul-satisfying dish that brings comfort, flavor, and ease to your table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this creamy, tender chicken and noodles recipe will become a cherished favorite. With just a few ingredients and the magic of the slow cooker, you can enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal with minimal effort.