recipe amish chicken
The Best recipe amish chicken
Oh, this Amish chicken recipe is one of those simple things that feels like a hug for my family. I’ve been making it since before my kids were in school, and honestly, it’s the kind of dish that doesn’t just fill my kitchen—it fills my heart. The way the chicken stays juicy and tender, the flavors so natural and hearty, it’s like cooking with your ancestors. My husband always says it’s the only meal he doesn’t need to reheat, and my kids will eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner if I let them. It’s that kind of reliable comfort food, the kind that doesn’t require fancy techniques or expensive ingredients—just good, honest ingredients and a little love.
I love this recipe because it’s perfect for so many reasons. First, it’s versatile—whether you’re feeding a crowd for a church potluck or just making leftovers for the week, this chicken holds up beautifully. My kids love it when it’s served with crusty bread and a simple green salad, but it also pairs well with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. And honestly, it’s one of those meals that feels special without being overly complicated. No fancy sauces, no weird marinades—just a simple seasoning that lets the chicken shine.
There’s also something really satisfying about the health benefits. The recipe is packed with lean protein, and the herbs and spices used are full of flavor without being heavy. My kids don’t even realize they’re eating something that’s good for them because it tastes so good. And for me, it’s a way to keep things simple while still making sure everyone gets something nourishing. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good inside, and that’s something I’ve come to appreciate more than anything.
Amish Chicken and Dumplings
A hearty, comforting dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with fluffy, buttery dumplings, a classic Amish comfort food. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried sage
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup cold butter, cubed
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken thighs.
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2 In a stockpot, combine chicken thighs, milk, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove chicken, shred, and set aside.
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3 In the same pot, add tomato sauce, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes. Season with sage, salt, and pepper to taste.
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4 For the dumplings, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and cold butter in a bowl. Cut until crumbly. Stir in milk, egg, and vanilla until a dough forms. Chill for 10 minutes.
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5 Roll dough into 1-inch balls and drop into the chicken sauce. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until dumplings float to the top.
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6 Transfer the chicken and dumplings to an oven-safe dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to crisp the dumplings. Serve warm.
🔧Equipment
- Large stockpot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
- Whisk
- Dumpling dropper or spoon
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Amish Chicken and Dumplings Works
This Amish chicken recipe is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple yet hearty enough for any family gathering without feeling too heavy or complicated. It’s the kind of dish that stays tender and flavorful, making it perfect for potlucks, holidays, or just a cozy meal when everyone’s together. Plus, it’s forgiving—even if you don’t have a pressure cooker, the slow-cooked version still comes out delicious, so there’s no stress when life gets busy.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Amish Chicken and Dumplings
What is the key difference between traditional Amish and non-Amish-style baked chicken recipes?
The key difference lies in the use of whole, free-range chickens that are slow-roasted or baked with a focus on natural flavors, often including herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary, along with a simple but flavorful marinade or dry rub. Amish-style chicken is typically cooked with minimal added fat, relying on the natural juices of the bird and a light glaze or butter basting.
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How long does it take to prepare and cook Amish-style baked chicken?
Preparation time is usually around 30–45 minutes, including marinating the chicken (if used), while the actual cooking time depends on the size of the chicken. For a whole chicken, it typically takes 3 to 4 hours at 325°F (165°C) or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For smaller pieces, it may take 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
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What are the essential ingredients for an authentic Amish baked chicken recipe?
The essential ingredients include: – Whole chicken (preferably free-range, organic, or pasture-raised) – Butter, olive oil, or lard (for basting or coating) – Fresh herbs (thyme, sage, rosemary, or bay leaves) – Garlic (minced or pressed) – Onion powder, salt, and black pepper – Optional: Lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or a splash of white wine (for extra depth) – A simple glaze (e.g., honey, brown sugar, or a light mustard sauce)
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Why does Amish-style chicken have a lighter texture compared to deep-fried or breaded versions?
Amish-style chicken achieves its tender, moist texture through slow cooking—allowing the chicken to cook gently over low heat, which breaks down the collagen in the meat, resulting in a juicier, more tender bite. The lack of heavy battering or frying also prevents a crispy exterior while keeping the inside succulent. Additionally, basting with butter or oil throughout the cooking process helps retain moisture.
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Can I substitute a whole chicken with chicken thighs or drumsticks for this recipe?
While a whole chicken is traditional, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for a quicker and slightly more flavorful result. However, thighs and drumsticks may require shorter cooking times (around 1.5 to 2 hours at 350°F/175°C) to avoid overcooking. If using thighs, add a few extra minutes to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) internally. For best texture, consider trussing or tying them together to help them cook evenly.
