Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the bay leaf for extra flavor.
Cook the Chicken and Vegetables:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and easily shreds. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours.
Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir.
Add the Noodles:
Add the egg noodles to the slow cooker, stirring them into the broth and vegetables. Cover and cook on low for 30 minutes or until the noodles are tender and fully cooked.
Make it Creamy (Optional):
If you prefer a creamier stew, stir in the heavy cream at the end of cooking. For a thicker broth, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the soup before adding the noodles.
Final Touches:
After the noodles are cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf and garnish the stew with fresh chopped parsley.
Serve:
Serve the Amish chicken and noodles hot, with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving suggestion:
This dish is a meal on its own, but you can serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some freshly baked bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Storing leftovers:
Store any leftover chicken and noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the noodles absorb too much liquid during storage, add a little extra broth or water when reheating.
Freezing:
This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. If freezing, consider storing the noodles and broth separately, as the noodles may become mushy after thawing. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm on the stovetop.
Variants of Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles:
Creamy Amish Chicken and Noodles:
For a richer, creamier version, add a cup of heavy cream or cream cheese towards the end of cooking. This makes the broth velvety and adds extra indulgence.
Vegetable-Loaded Chicken and Noodles:
Add extra vegetables such as peas, green beans, or parsnips for more color and nutrition. You can also substitute some of the carrots and celery for other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or turnips.
Gluten-Free Version:
If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular egg noodles with gluten-free egg noodles or rice noodles. Make sure the chicken broth is also gluten-free.
Spicy Chicken and Noodles:
For a kick of spice, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when adding the vegetables. This gives the stew an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
Chicken and Noodles with Herbs:
Try experimenting with fresh herbs like parsley, sage, or dill for a more aromatic, herb-forward version of the stew. Add these herbs at the end of cooking for maximum flavor.
FAQ:
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe. However, be sure to cook it on the “low” setting for the full 6-7 hours to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. You may also need to shred the chicken after it’s cooked.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more flavor and moisture to the dish. You can use bone-in or boneless thighs, but bone-in will need a little extra time to cook. Just be sure to remove the bones before shredding the chicken.
3. Can I add other types of noodles?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with any type of pasta, though egg noodles are traditional for this dish. Just keep in mind that the cooking time for other types of noodles may vary.
4. How can I thicken the broth?
If you prefer a thicker broth, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry and stir it into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before the noodles are done cooking. You can also add a small amount of mashed potatoes for a creamy texture.
5. Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the stew on high for about 3-4 hours. However, cooking it on low allows the flavors to meld more effectively and results in a more tender, flavorful dish.
With its tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and rich broth, Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a warm meal for a special occasion, this dish is easy, hearty, and sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction of this slow-cooked classic! 🍲
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