Amish Chicken: A Hearty Comfort Food Classic
Amish Chicken is a beloved dish known for its simplicity and comforting flavors. Hailing from the heart of Amish country, this recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a flavorful blend of spices and baked to golden perfection. Served with a creamy gravy, it’s a wholesome meal that’s sure to satisfy the whole family. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make Amish Chicken from scratch, along with some FAQs, cook notes, and variations to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 7-8 chicken pieces with skin on
- 1.5 cups of heavy whipping cream
- 1.5 cups of water
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the seasoning blend.
- Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Dip each chicken piece into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring that it’s evenly coated on all sides.
- Place the coated chicken pieces in a greased baking dish, skin side up.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy whipping cream and water until well combined.
- Pour the cream mixture over the chicken pieces, ensuring that they are partially submerged.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Amish Chicken hot, spooning the creamy gravy over the top for extra flavor.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken pieces in buttermilk for a few hours before coating them in the seasoned flour mixture.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning blend to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for an extra layer of flavor.
- To make the dish healthier, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs instead of chicken pieces with skin on.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
- To make a keto-friendly version of Amish Chicken, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour. You can also use a combination of grated Parmesan cheese and almond flour for a crispy coating.
- Instead of heavy whipping cream, use a combination of chicken broth and unsweetened almond milk to keep the dish low in carbs.
Amish Chicken is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings. With its tender chicken and creamy gravy, it’s a timeless recipe that never fails to impress. Whether you’re following a traditional recipe or putting your own spin on it with different seasonings and variations, Amish Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s rich in flavor and nostalgia
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for this recipe?
- Yes, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as boneless cuts may cook faster than bone-in pieces.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the seasoned chicken and arrange it in the baking dish ahead of time. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, simply pour the cream mixture over the chicken and bake as directed.
- What can I serve with Amish Chicken?
- Amish Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh garden salad. Choose your favorite sides to complement the rich flavors of the chicken and gravy.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze any leftover Amish Chicken for future meals. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
- Is this recipe kid-friendly?
- Absolutely! Kids tend to love the mild flavors of Amish Chicken, especially when served with creamy gravy. You can even get them involved in the cooking process by helping to coat the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture.
In conclusion, Amish Chicken is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that anyone can master. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this hearty chicken dish is sure to please. Experiment with different seasonings and variations to make it your own, and don’t forget to share this delicious recipe with family and friends. From its tender chicken to its creamy gravy, Amish Chicken is a true classic that never goes out of style.