Amish Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy sauce, infused with aromatic herbs and spices. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables. The blend of Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and nutmeg adds depth to the creamy sauce, making this dish irresistible.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried parsley, and ground nutmeg (if using). Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Continue to cook the sauce for another 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them.
- Simmer the chicken in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to reheat and absorb the flavors.
- Serve the Amish Chicken hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cook’s Notes
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it longer or add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux.
- Nutmeg: The ground nutmeg is optional but adds a warm, subtle depth to the sauce that complements the other flavors.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier alternative. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Variations
Mushroom Amish Chicken
Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet after searing the chicken. Sauté the mushrooms until tender, then proceed with making the sauce.
Spicy Amish Chicken
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Lemon Herb Amish Chicken
Add the juice and zest of 1 lemon to the sauce along with the thyme and parsley for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Garlic Amish Chicken
Increase the garlic powder to 2 teaspoons and add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic to the sauce for a more pronounced garlic flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken in the sauce over low heat until warmed through.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with Amish Chicken?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli.
5. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.
Amish Chicken is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy sauce, seasoned with herbs and spices, elevates simple chicken breasts to a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the rich flavors of this classic dish with your favorite sides for a meal that’s both comforting and delicious!