A traditional Pennsylvania Dutch classic transformed into an effortless slow cooker delight that brings warmth and comfort to your table.

 

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 4-6 hours | Total Time: 4-6 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 | Cuisine: Amish/Pennsylvania Dutch | Difficulty: Beginner

 

Did you know that Amish cooking techniques date back over 300 years, with slow-cooking methods being fundamental to their culinary traditions? This Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles recipe honors those time-tested techniques while adapting them for our modern, busy lifestyles. The beauty of this Amish chicken dish lies in its simplicity—humble ingredients transformed through patience into something extraordinarily comforting.

 

For generations, Amish communities have perfected the art of creating hearty, soul-warming meals that bring families together around the table. This slow cooker adaptation maintains the authentic flavors and homestyle quality while eliminating the constant attention traditional stovetop versions require.

 

Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic taste of countryside cooking or simply a satisfying meal that practically prepares itself, this Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles recipe delivers both convenience and that unmistakable made-from-scratch taste that has made this dish a beloved staple across America.

Recipe Overview

This Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles recipe stands out for its exceptional balance of simplicity and flavor depth. What makes this version special is how the slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender while infusing the homemade egg noodles with rich, savory flavor.

 

Difficulty Level: Beginner – perfect for novice cooks or those new to slow cooker recipes Cuisine Type: Amish/Pennsylvania Dutch comfort food Special Equipment: 6-quart slow cooker Dietary Classification: Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs (non-vegetarian)

 

The gentle, prolonged cooking transforms basic pantry ingredients into a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meal that tastes like it came straight from an Amish kitchen, yet requires minimal hands-on attention—making it ideal for busy weekdays or lazy weekends alike.

Ingredients List

For the Chicken Base:

• 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1½ cups/240g)
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (about 1 cup/135g)
• 3 stalks celery, sliced (about 1 cup/100g)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon/9g)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 4 cups (950ml) low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsalted butter

For the Noodles:

• 16 ounces (450g) extra-wide egg noodles *
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 

Ingredient Notes:

• *For authentic Amish flavor, homemade egg noodles are traditional, but store-bought extra-wide egg noodles work excellently for convenience.
• For dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
• If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs will provide more flavor and remain more tender than breasts.
• For enhanced flavor, use bone-in chicken pieces (remove bones before shredding).
• Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried (use 1 tablespoon fresh for each teaspoon dried).

Timing

Preparation Time: 20 minutes This includes chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, and setting up your slow cooker.

 

Cooking Time:

• Low setting: 5-6 hours (recommended for maximum tenderness)
• High setting: 3-4 hours (for when time is limited)
• Final noodle cooking: 30 minutes

 

Total Time: 4-6 hours 20 minutes The beauty of this recipe is that approximately 95% of the cooking time is passive, allowing you to attend to other tasks while your slow cooker works its magic. This is significantly less hands-on time than traditional stovetop Amish chicken and noodles, which typically requires periodic stirring and attention.

 

Make-Ahead Options: The chicken base can be prepared up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated before adding noodles on the day of serving, making this an excellent meal prep option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base (5 minutes)

Place the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery in the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a flavorful aromatic base and prevents the chicken from sticking to the bottom. The vegetables on the bottom will also cook in the direct heat, releasing their flavors into the broth.

Step 2: Season and Add the Chicken (5 minutes)

Place chicken breasts or thighs on top of the vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Add the minced garlic and bay leaves. The layering technique ensures the chicken absorbs maximum flavor while cooking gently.

Step 3: Add Liquid and Begin Slow Cooking (2 minutes)

Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Add the butter, cut into small pieces and scattered across the top. Cover and set your slow cooker to LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. You’ll know the chicken is ready when it’s tender enough to shred easily with two forks.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken (5 minutes)

About 30-40 minutes before serving, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. The chicken should pull apart effortlessly – if it doesn’t, it needs more cooking time. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Remove and discard bay leaves at this point.

Step 5: Add the Noodles (3 minutes)

Add the egg noodles to the slow cooker, stirring gently to submerge them in the broth. If the mixture seems too thick, add ½ cup of additional chicken broth or water. The noodles will absorb liquid as they cook, creating that signature Amish chicken and noodles consistency.

Step 6: Final Cooking and Finishing (30 minutes)

Cover and cook on HIGH for 30 minutes, or until noodles are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking together. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the heavy cream. This enriches the broth and creates the creamy consistency that makes this dish so comforting.

Step 7: Rest and Serve (5 minutes)

Turn off the slow cooker and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and flavors to meld. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving. The bright green adds visual appeal and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich dish.

Chef’s Notes and Technical Tips

The magic of this Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles lies in understanding a few key culinary principles:

• Low and Slow Transformation: The collagen in the chicken breaks down during slow cooking, creating that signature tender texture and enriching the broth naturally.
• Equipment Considerations: For best results, use a 6-quart slow cooker to ensure adequate space for the noodles to expand. If your slow cooker runs hot, check doneness at the earlier end of the time range.
• Noodle Selection Science: Egg noodles are traditional in Amish cooking because their higher egg content helps them maintain integrity during long cooking. Their wider surface area also absorbs flavors more effectively than thin pasta varieties.
• Temperature Management: If your slow cooker doesn’t seem hot enough to cook the noodles in the final stage, switch to HIGH setting and extend cooking time by 10-15 minutes, checking noodle tenderness frequently.
• Flavor Development: For deeper flavor, consider browning the chicken in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker. This creates Maillard reaction compounds that enhance the overall taste profile of the finished dish.
• Thickness Control: If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the mixture during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Nutritional Information

 

Per Serving (Based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 485
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Sugar: 3g
• Cholesterol: 160mg

 

This Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles provides approximately 30% of your daily protein requirements and 12% of daily fiber needs. Compared to traditional pan-fried Amish chicken dishes, this slow cooker version reduces fat content by approximately 40% while maintaining the characteristic flavor profile.

 

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

 

While maintaining the authentic comfort-food essence of this Amish classic, several modifications can enhance its nutritional profile:

• Whole Grain Option: Substitute standard egg noodles with whole wheat egg noodles to increase fiber content by 6g per serving while adding nutty flavor depth.
• Lean Protein: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs reduces fat content by approximately 7g per serving while keeping protein levels high.
• Dairy Adjustments: Replace heavy cream with evaporated skim milk to cut fat by 8g per serving while maintaining creaminess. Alternatively, Greek yogurt (added after cooking and with temperature reduced) provides tanginess and protein boost.
• Sodium Reduction: Using no-sodium chicken broth and herbs for flavor can lower sodium content by up to 40%, bringing it below 400mg per serving while preserving taste complexity.
• Vegetable Boost: Double the carrots and celery and add 1 cup of frozen peas in the last 10 minutes of cooking to increase fiber, vitamins A and C, with minimal impact on the overall flavor profile.

 

Each modification preserves the dish’s comforting essence while tailoring it to different nutritional needs.

Serving Suggestions

Transform your Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles from a simple family meal to a memorable dining experience with these serving ideas:

For everyday family dinners, serve in wide, shallow bowls with a slice of crusty homemade bread for soaking up the rich broth. A simple side of steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts complements the hearty nature of this dish.

For a more formal gathering, present in a large, rustic serving bowl at the center of the table, family-style. Pair with a bright, vinegar-based coleslaw to cut through the richness and add textural contrast.

During colder months, enhance the comfort factor by serving atop a small portion of buttery mashed potatoes – an unconventional but delicious Pennsylvania Dutch-inspired combination.

For a complete Amish-inspired meal, accompany with pickled beets, apple butter, and a fresh green salad with simple vinaigrette.

Portion guidance: A standard serving is approximately 1½ cups for adults and ¾ cup for children, though the hearty nature of this dish often satisfies with smaller portions than typical pasta dishes.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

The creamy, savory profile of Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles pairs wonderfully with several beverage options:

 

Wine Selections:

• Unoaked Chardonnay: Its buttery notes complement the creamy texture without overwhelming the subtle herb flavors.
• Pinot Gris/Grigio: The light, crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Riesling (off-dry): Traditional in Pennsylvania Dutch country, its slight sweetness balances the savory elements.

 

Beer Options:

• Farmhouse Ale or Saison: Their rustic character and slight spiciness echo the countryside origins of the dish.
• Vienna Lager: Malt-forward with enough body to stand up to the hearty nature of the meal.

 

Non-Alcoholic Choices:

• Sparkling apple cider: Reflects Amish apple orchard traditions and provides refreshing contrast.
• Homemade lemonade: The acidity refreshes the palate between bites.
• Herb-infused iced tea with mint: Complements the herb notes in the dish.

 

Kid-Friendly Option:

• Milk: The traditional Amish children’s beverage, perfect with this comfort food classic.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even this forgiving recipe has potential pitfalls. Here’s how to ensure success:

Overcooking the Chicken: If cooked too long before shredding, chicken can become dry and stringy. Look for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) rather than strictly following time guidelines.

Undercooking the Noodles: The noodles should be fully submerged in liquid when added. If they appear dry during cooking, add ¼ cup hot broth or water incrementally.

Scorching: Some slow cookers have hot spots. Stir occasionally during the noodle-cooking phase to prevent sticking and burning.

Seasoning Too Early: Adjust final salt seasoning after noodles have cooked, as they absorb liquid and concentrate flavors.

Cream Curdling: Adding cold cream to very hot liquid can cause separation. Either temper the cream by mixing with a small amount of hot broth first or ensure it’s at room temperature before adding.

Recovery Tip: If your sauce separates, whisk 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water, add to the mixture, and cook for 10 more minutes to re-stabilize the sauce.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Maximize the quality and safety of your Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles with these storage guidelines:

Refrigeration: Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Properly stored, it will maintain quality for 3-4 days. The flavor often improves overnight as ingredients meld.

Freezing Recommendations: While the dish can be frozen, the texture of noodles may become softer upon thawing. For best results, slightly undercook noodles if planning to freeze. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating Method: Thaw overnight in refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding 1-2 tablespoons of chicken broth or water to restore moisture. Alternatively, microwave at 70% power, stirring halfway through.

Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare the chicken and vegetable base up to the shredding step, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the slow cooker, then proceed with adding noodles and cream.

Food Safety Note: Never leave the finished dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Scaling the Recipe

Whether cooking for two or feeding a crowd, here’s how to adjust this Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles recipe effectively:

 

For Half Recipe (2-3 servings):

• Use a 3-4 quart slow cooker
• Reduce cooking time by 30-60 minutes
• Keep seasoning proportions similar (you may need slightly more than half for balanced flavor)

 

For Double Recipe (10-12 servings):

• Requires 8-10 quart slow cooker or use two 6-quart cookers
• Cooking time remains similar, but verify chicken doneness with thermometer
• Add noodles in batches to ensure even cooking
• Allow extra 10-15 minutes for noodle cooking time

 

Equipment Adjustments: When scaling up, avoid overfilling your slow cooker beyond ⅔ capacity to ensure even cooking and prevent spillover.

 

Special Consideration: The liquid-to-solid ratio is crucial when scaling. Maintain the proportion of approximately 4 cups of liquid to 2 pounds of chicken and 16 ounces of noodles.

Seasonal and Regional Variations

Adapt this Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles recipe throughout the year with these seasonal twists:

Spring Variation: Add 1 cup fresh or frozen peas and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (dill, chives) in the final 10 minutes of cooking for brightness and color.

Summer Adaptation: Incorporate 1 cup diced zucchini or yellow squash with the noodles and serve with a side of sliced heirloom tomatoes tossed with apple cider vinegar – a nod to Amish garden traditions.

Fall Harvest Version: Add 1 cup diced butternut squash with the vegetables and incorporate a pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon to the seasoning blend. Garnish with fried sage leaves.

Winter Comfort Enhancement: Add 2 parsnips with the carrots and finish with a drizzle of local honey (a staple in many Amish communities) for subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements.

 

 

Regional Adaptations:

• Lancaster County Style: Add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon of saffron threads for authentic Pennsylvania Dutch flavor.
• Midwest Amish Variation: Include 1 cup corn kernels and use chicken with bone for heartier farm-style flavor.
• Ohio Amish Country: Incorporate 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and serve with a side of pickled beets.

User Success Stories

“I’ve tried numerous chicken and noodle recipes, but this slow cooker Amish version has become our Sunday tradition. My grandmother was from Lancaster County, and this tastes just like her version without the constant stovetop attention.” – Margaret T.

“As a busy parent of three, this recipe has been a game-changer. I prep everything the night before, refrigerate the ceramic insert, and start it before leaving for work. The kids call it ‘magic chicken’ because it’s ready when we get home!” – David L.

“I was skeptical about cooking noodles in a slow cooker, but following the timing exactly produced perfect results. The cream addition at the end makes all the difference.” – Samantha K.

“I adapted this recipe for my gluten-free household by using rice noodles and adding them during the last 15 minutes instead of 30. The flavor was authentic even with the substitution!” – Elena G.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Amish Chicken and Noodles recipe beautifully bridges traditional cooking methods with modern convenience, allowing you to experience authentic, homestyle comfort food with minimal effort. The magic lies in how the slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a dish that tastes like it’s been lovingly tended for hours at the stovetop.

What makes this recipe truly special is how it honors the Amish traditions of creating nourishing, uncomplicated food that brings people together around the table. By letting your slow cooker do the work, you’re free to focus on what matters most – enjoying quality time with those you’re feeding.

Whether you’re seeking comfort on a cold evening, a satisfying family meal that pleases all ages, or a taste of American culinary heritage, this recipe delivers on all fronts. We encourage you to make this dish your own by trying some of the seasonal variations or healthy adaptations we’ve suggested.

Ready to bring some Amish-inspired comfort to your table? Save this recipe, gather your ingredients, and discover why this humble dish has remained a beloved classic for generations. Don’t forget to share your experience or photos on social media using #AmishComfortFood #SlowCookerMagic!

FAQs

 

Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but add an additional 1-2 hours to the cooking time on LOW setting. For food safety, ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before shredding. The texture may be slightly less tender than with fresh chicken.

 

Q: My noodles turned out mushy. What went wrong? A: Noodle texture is primarily determined by cooking time. For firmer noodles, check them 5-10 minutes earlier than recommended, especially if your slow cooker runs hot. Also, extra-wide egg noodles hold up better than standard width.

 

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: Absolutely! Substitute butter with olive oil and replace heavy cream with either full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream (blend 1/2 cup soaked raw cashews with 1/2 cup water until smooth). The flavor profile will change slightly but remain delicious.

 

Q: How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin? A: Create a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, then stir into the hot mixture during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, allow the finished dish to rest with the lid off for 10-15 minutes before serving.

 

Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop or in a pressure cooker if I don’t have time for slow cooking? A: Yes! For stovetop: Simmer chicken with vegetables and broth in a Dutch oven for 45-60 minutes, then shred chicken and add noodles until tender (about 8-10 minutes). For pressure cooker: Cook chicken mixture for 12 minutes on high pressure with natural release, then add noodles and use sauté function until tender.

 

Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly? A: The chicken and broth base freezes excellently. For best results, freeze before adding noodles, then cook fresh noodles when reheating. If freezing the complete dish, slightly undercook the noodles as they’ll soften further when reheated.

 

Q: What makes this authentically “Amish”? A: This recipe honors Amish culinary traditions through its simple ingredients, reliance on pantry staples, and homestyle preparation. Traditional Amish cooking emphasizes hearty, made-from-scratch meals using farm-fresh ingredients and techniques passed down through generations.

Related Recipes and Resources

 

Similar Comfort Food Recipes You’ll Love:

• Easy Slow Cooker Amish Corn Chowder

• Ham and White Bean Soup

• Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

• Amish Country Casserole: A Simple Yet Comforting Culinary Journey

 

Helpful Technique Guides:

• Master the Art of Slow Cooker Timing
• How to Make Perfect Chicken Broth at Home
• Essential Tips for Tender Shredded Chicken Every Time

 

Recommended Reading:

• “Slow Cooker Amish Christmas Ham: A Festive Feast with Generations of Tradition“
• “HONEY-GARLIC SLOW COOKER CHICKEN THIGHS“

 

This post was last updated on April 10, 2025, to include additional dietary variations and updated cooking tips.