Easy Amish Chicken Recipe You Need to Try

Why You Need This Easy Amish Chicken Recipe

Comfort Food Appeal

There’s nothing quite like a homemade meal that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction. This easy Amish chicken recipe is the epitome of comfort food, offering a rich, creamy chicken dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table, eagerly awaiting a taste of its savory goodness. The tenderness of the chicken, bathed in a velvety sauce, creates a delightful experience that transcends a mere meal—it’s an embrace. Whether you’re battling a chilly evening or simply craving something genuinely heartwarming, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Its traditional flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia, making it a beloved choice for family gatherings or quiet nights in. When you think of a satisfying, fuss-free, and utterly delicious main course, this baked chicken often comes to mind, standing out as a true classic. For more creamy and satisfying chicken options, check out our Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Rolls recipe.

Simple Steps, Big Flavor

One of the greatest advantages of this easy Amish chicken recipe is its remarkable simplicity without compromising on taste. You don’t need a culinary degree or a pantry full of exotic ingredients to achieve a flavorful, mouth-watering result. This simple recipe is designed for busy individuals and families who want to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The preparation involves straightforward steps: a quick dredge, a pour of cream, and then the oven does most of the work. The magic happens during baking, as the chicken cooks to perfection, absorbing all the aromatic spices and the richness of the cream sauce. This method ensures that even novice cooks can create a dish that tastes like it came from a seasoned chef. It’s truly a quick weeknight dinner solution that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it a reliable and cherished addition to your recipe repertoire. This approach to cooking embodies the essence of an easy Amish chicken: practical, delicious, and always satisfying.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Chicken Pieces and Cream

The foundation of this savory chicken dish relies on two primary components: high-quality chicken and a rich cream. For the chicken, you have several options. Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, such as thighs or drumsticks, are often recommended because the bone adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist during baking. Skin-on pieces also crisp up beautifully, adding a desirable texture contrast. However, if you prefer, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs can also be used, though cooking times may need adjustment to prevent drying out. A total of 2-3 pounds is usually sufficient for a family-sized meal. As for the cream, heavy cream (or whipping cream) is ideal. Its high-fat content creates a luxurious, thick, and utterly delicious cream sauce that coats the chicken perfectly. If you’re looking for a slightly lighter touch, half-and-half can be substituted, though the sauce might be less rich. Ensure your chicken is fresh and the cream is dairy-based for the most authentic flavor of this creamy chicken dish.

Basic Spices You Need

The beauty of this easy Amish chicken recipe also lies in its reliance on common, readily available spices. You won’t need to hunt for obscure ingredients; your basic pantry staples are likely all you need to create the profound, savory flavors this dish is known for. A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper forms the core seasoning. Garlic powder and onion powder provide a foundational aromatic base, while paprika adds a touch of warmth and color. Salt and freshly ground black pepper are crucial for enhancing all the other flavors. Some recipes might suggest a hint of dried parsley or a pinch of poultry seasoning for an extra layer of complexity. Feel free to adjust the quantities to your personal preference, making sure to taste and adapt as you go. The combination of these simple spices, when combined with the chicken and cream, transforms into an irresistible sauce that defines this baked chicken dish, proving that often, less is more when it comes to creating truly memorable flavors. These seasonings elevate the homemade meal to something truly special.

How to Make Easy Amish Chicken

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish

Before you begin assembling your easy Amish chicken, the first crucial step is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature when the chicken goes in, promoting even cooking and helping to create that beautifully tender and juicy result. While the oven preheats, you’ll want to prepare your baking dish. A 9×13-inch baking dish or a similarly sized oven-safe pan is generally recommended for 2-3 pounds of chicken. Lightly grease the dish with butter or a non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the chicken and sauce from sticking and makes for easier cleanup later. Taking a few moments to properly prepare your workspace and equipment sets the stage for a smooth cooking process, allowing you to focus on the enjoyable task of creating this delicious creamy chicken dish. Proper preparation is key to any successful baking endeavor, especially for a cherished recipe like this baked chicken.

Coating the Chicken Pieces

Once your oven is preheating and your dish is ready, it’s time to prepare the chicken. In a shallow bowl or plate, combine your dry ingredients: flour (all-purpose is fine), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix these thoroughly to create a uniform seasoning blend. Next, take each chicken piece and dredge it lightly in this flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides. The flour coating serves multiple purposes: it helps create a delicious crust on the chicken, seals in moisture, and most importantly, it acts as a thickening agent for the creamy sauce. As the chicken bakes, the flour will interact with the cream, transforming it into a rich, velvety consistency. Shake off any excess flour to avoid a gummy texture. This step is vital for building the flavor profile and texture that makes this easy Amish chicken so distinctive. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in your prepared baking dish in a single layer, ensuring they are not too crowded to allow for even cooking and browning.

Pouring the Creamy Sauce

With the chicken neatly arranged in the baking dish, the final preparation step before baking is to add the creamy sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together your heavy cream (or chosen cream substitute) with a little more salt and pepper, and perhaps a touch of additional garlic powder or a tablespoon of chicken broth for extra depth of flavor. Some cooks like to add a tiny amount of Dijon mustard or a splash of Worcestershire sauce here for a subtle tang that complements the richness of the cream. Once thoroughly combined, carefully pour this creamy mixture over the chicken pieces in the baking dish. Ensure that the chicken is largely submerged in the sauce, as this is how it will cook and absorb the wonderful flavors. Avoid stirring too much at this stage; simply pour the sauce over. The flour coating on the chicken will begin to work its magic as the dish bakes, thickening the cream into a luscious gravy. This simple yet effective technique is what transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary creamy chicken dish, promising a comforting homemade meal. If you love baked chicken, you might also enjoy our Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce.

Baking Your Chicken to Perfection

Cook Time and Doneness

Once your easy Amish chicken is assembled and the creamy sauce poured, it’s ready for the oven. Place the baking dish into the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. The typical cook time for bone-in chicken pieces is usually between 60 to 75 minutes. For boneless chicken breasts or thighs, the cooking time might be slightly shorter, around 45 to 60 minutes. The most important aspect is to ensure the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken (avoiding the bone) should reach 165°F (74°C). You can verify this with a meat thermometer. During the last 15-20 minutes of baking, you can remove the foil (if you used it to prevent excessive browning) to allow the top of the chicken and the sauce to achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and a slight crispness. The sauce will also thicken further, creating a rich, savory chicken gravy that is simply irresistible. This careful attention to cook time ensures your baked chicken is tender, juicy, and perfectly safe to eat, making for a truly comforting and delicious homemade meal.

Serving Hot and Creamy

When your easy Amish chicken emerges from the oven, it will be bubbling hot, fragrant, and gloriously golden-brown. It’s essential to let the dish rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices in the chicken to redistribute, resulting in more tender and moist meat. The sauce will also continue to thicken slightly as it cools, achieving that perfect, luscious consistency. This savory chicken is best served hot, directly from the baking dish. The rich, creamy sauce is perfect for spooning generously over each serving. It pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delectable sauce. Steamed green beans or a fresh salad can provide a lovely counterpoint to the richness of the dish. This baked chicken is a complete, satisfying meal on its own, delivering a deeply comforting and flavorful experience that is sure to please everyone at the table, making it a staple for any family-friendly chicken dinner.

Tips for Best Amish Chicken

Choosing Your Chicken Cuts

The success of your easy Amish chicken recipe largely hinges on the choice of chicken cuts. While the recipe is versatile, some cuts perform better than others to achieve that signature tender, juicy result. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks are highly recommended. The bone adds depth of flavor to the sauce, while the skin helps protect the meat from drying out and crisps up beautifully, providing a delightful textural contrast. Dark meat also tends to be more forgiving and stays moist even if slightly overcooked. If you prefer white meat, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, but be mindful of cooking times. To prevent them from drying out, consider using thicker breast pieces or even pounding them slightly to an even thickness. Regardless of the cut, patting the chicken dry before coating helps the flour adhere better, leading to a crispier exterior and a richer sauce. Exploring different cuts allows you to customize this creamy chicken dish to your family’s preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys this savory chicken. For another great chicken and rice dish, try our Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole.

Cream and Flour Options

The creamy sauce is the heart of this easy Amish chicken, and the choices you make for cream and flour play a significant role in its texture and richness. For the most authentic and decadent experience, heavy cream (also known as whipping cream) is the top choice. Its high fat content ensures a thick, velvety sauce that adheres beautifully to the chicken. If you’re looking for a slightly lighter option without sacrificing too much richness, half-and-half can be a suitable substitute, though the sauce might be a bit thinner. Whole milk or a combination of milk and a spoonful of cream cheese can also be used in a pinch for a less rich but still flavorful sauce. For the flour, all-purpose flour is standard and works perfectly for coating the chicken and thickening the sauce. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend can be used for the dredging, ensuring that the sauce still thickens appropriately. Experimenting with these options allows you to tailor this creamy chicken dish to dietary needs or personal preferences, ensuring that this homemade meal remains a family favorite. Remember that the combination of flour and cream is what creates that iconic rich gravy for your baked chicken.

Easy Amish Chicken Recipe Variations

Adding Smoky Flavors

While the classic easy Amish chicken is wonderful on its own, introducing smoky flavors can elevate the dish to a new dimension. One simple way to achieve this is by adding cooked, crumbled bacon to the sauce or sprinkling it over the top during the last few minutes of baking. The crispy, salty bacon bits infuse a delightful smoky essence that complements the creamy chicken beautifully. Another excellent option is to incorporate smoked paprika into the flour dredging mixture. Unlike regular paprika, smoked paprika (also known as pimentón) provides a deep, earthy, and distinctly smoky note that will permeate the chicken and the sauce. A dash of liquid smoke, used sparingly, can also impart a smoky flavor. For a more subtle approach, you could use smoked gouda cheese, grated and mixed into the cream sauce, which melts down to create a rich, cheesy, and smoky layer. These variations make the savory chicken even more complex and intriguing, proving how adaptable this simple recipe can be to different palates and preferences, turning a comforting classic into a nuanced, family-friendly chicken meal.

Lighter Cream Options

For those who prefer a slightly less indulgent version of this creamy chicken dish, there are several lighter cream options that can be used without completely sacrificing the creamy texture. Instead of heavy cream, a blend of milk and chicken broth can be used. For example, a mixture of 1 cup whole milk and 1/2 cup chicken broth can provide a good liquid base. You might also consider using evaporated milk, which offers a thicker consistency than regular milk but has a lower fat content than heavy cream. To maintain some of the richness and help with thickening, a tablespoon of cream cheese or a small amount of Greek yogurt (stirred in at the very end to prevent curdling) can be whisked into the lighter liquid. Be aware that lighter creams may result in a thinner sauce, so you might need to adjust the amount of flour in the dredging step or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking if a thicker consistency is desired. These adjustments allow you to enjoy the essence of this easy Amish chicken recipe as a healthy chicken option while still maintaining its comforting appeal as a homemade meal.

Tossing in Vegetables

Transforming this easy Amish chicken recipe into a complete one-pot meal is simple by tossing in your favorite vegetables. Incorporating vegetables not only adds nutritional value but also introduces new textures and flavors to the creamy chicken dish. Hearty vegetables like diced potatoes, carrots, or celery can be added directly to the baking dish along with the chicken, ensuring they cook tender in the savory cream sauce. For softer vegetables like peas or green beans, it’s best to add them during the last 15-20 minutes of baking to prevent them from becoming mushy. Sliced mushrooms or quartered onions can also be a delightful addition, adding an umami depth to the sauce. Consider roasting tougher vegetables like broccoli florets or Brussels sprouts separately and then stirring them in at the end, or serving them on the side to maintain their crispness. This flexibility makes the baked chicken a versatile and family-friendly chicken option, allowing you to clean out your fridge or cater to specific dietary preferences, making every homemade meal uniquely yours. Check out more dinner recipes on our site.

Storing Leftovers Safely

Fridge Storage Tips

Proper storage is key to enjoying your leftover easy Amish chicken safely and deliciously. Once the dish has cooled down to room temperature (within two hours of cooking), transfer any remaining chicken and sauce to an airtight container. This prevents the growth of bacteria and helps maintain the food’s quality and flavor. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to avoid any air exposure, which can lead to drying out or absorption of refrigerator odors. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to keep the chicken submerged in the creamy sauce, as this helps to keep it moist and flavorful. When storing, consider dividing larger portions into individual serving sizes; this makes reheating easier and quicker, which is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep chicken. Always label your container with the date it was prepared to keep track of its freshness. Enjoying this savory chicken for multiple meals is a great benefit of making a homemade meal like this baked chicken.

Reheating Chicken Dishes

Reheating your easy Amish chicken is straightforward, ensuring that the creamy chicken dish retains its delicious qualities. The best method for reheating is usually in the oven or on the stovetop. For oven reheating, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the chicken and sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover it loosely with foil to prevent drying, and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through. On the stovetop, transfer the leftovers to a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick, and stir occasionally until heated through. Microwaving is also an option for individual portions, but be mindful not to overcook, as this can make the chicken tough and the sauce greasy. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating. Properly reheated, this baked chicken remains a comforting and satisfying quick weeknight dinner option.

Freezing This Chicken Dish

For Longer Storage Needs

If you have an abundance of easy Amish chicken or want to prepare a batch for future convenience, freezing is an excellent option for longer storage needs. To freeze, allow the cooked chicken and creamy sauce to cool completely. Transfer portions into freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring as much air as possible is removed to prevent freezer burn. For best results, it’s often beneficial to freeze individual servings, making them easier to thaw and reheat as needed. This practice makes it ideal for meal prep chicken. The frozen chicken dish can be stored for up to 2-3 months without a significant loss in quality or flavor. While freezing, the texture of the creamy sauce might change slightly upon thawing, potentially becoming a little thinner or separating. However, a good whisk or a quick stir during reheating can often restore its consistency. Label your containers with the date of freezing to keep track of their shelf life, ensuring you always enjoy fresh and delicious homemade meal options.

How to Reheat from Frozen

Reheating easy Amish chicken from frozen requires a bit more time but is perfectly manageable. The most recommended method is to thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator first. Once thawed, you can reheat it using the oven or stovetop methods described earlier. For oven reheating, place the thawed chicken and sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover, and bake at 325°F (160°C) until thoroughly heated, which may take 30-45 minutes. On the stovetop, gently heat in a saucepan, adding a little milk or broth if needed, stirring frequently. If you need to reheat directly from frozen, it’s best to do so in the oven. Place the frozen contents in an oven-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60-90 minutes, or until piping hot, stirring halfway through. The internal temperature of the savory chicken must reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. A good whisk at the end will help bring the sauce back together. Reheating from frozen makes this baked chicken a reliable and convenient quick weeknight dinner solution.

FAQs About Amish Chicken

Boneless Chicken Adjustments

When making easy Amish chicken with boneless cuts, such as boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, a few adjustments are beneficial to ensure the best results. Boneless chicken cooks faster than bone-in cuts, so you’ll want to reduce the baking time to prevent it from drying out. For average-sized boneless breasts, expect a cooking time of around 35-50 minutes at 375°F (190°C), while boneless thighs might take 40-55 minutes. Always rely on a meat thermometer to confirm doneness, aiming for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature. To help keep boneless breasts moist, consider slightly pounding them to an even thickness or cutting them into larger chunks. Some cooks also recommend searing boneless pieces quickly in a pan before baking to develop a deeper flavor and crust. These simple adjustments help ensure your creamy chicken dish remains tender and juicy, even with different cuts, making it a versatile and family-friendly chicken recipe. For daily inspiration and more delicious recipes, follow us on Instagram.

Making Sauce Thicker

If you find your easy Amish chicken sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, there are several easy ways to remedy this. The flour dredge on the chicken usually provides sufficient thickening, but sometimes extra help is needed.

1. Cornstarch Slurry: Whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the hot sauce in the baking dish during the last 10-15 minutes of baking, or after the dish is out of the oven if reheating on the stovetop. It will thicken quickly.
2. Reduction: If the sauce is already out of the oven, you can pour it into a saucepan and simmer gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reduces and thickens to your desired consistency.
3. Additional Flour: For a flour-based thickener, you can make a roux by melting a tablespoon of butter, stirring in a tablespoon of flour, cooking for a minute, and then whisking this into the hot sauce.

Avoid adding dry flour directly to the hot sauce, as this can create lumps. A thicker sauce provides an even more luxurious experience for this creamy chicken dish, ensuring every bite of your baked chicken is rich and satisfying. Visit Pinterest for visual recipe inspiration.

Dairy-Free Chicken Swaps

Alternatives for Cream

For those with dairy sensitivities or preferences, transforming this easy Amish chicken into a dairy-free creamy chicken dish is entirely possible with a few smart swaps for the cream.

• Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Canned full-fat coconut milk is an excellent alternative. Its richness mimics heavy cream, creating a luscious sauce. Be aware that it will impart a subtle coconut flavor, which some find delightful with savory chicken.
• Cashew Cream: For a neutral flavor, soak raw cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes, then blend them with fresh water until completely smooth and creamy. This yields a thick, dairy-free cream that is perfect for the sauce.
• Oat Milk or Soy Milk: While thinner, plain, unsweetened oat milk or soy milk can be used. To ensure the sauce thickens adequately, you may need to increase the amount of flour in the dredge or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.
• Dairy-Free Cream Cheese: A dollop of dairy-free cream cheese can be melted into the milk alternative to add body and richness.

With these alternatives, you can still enjoy a wonderfully comforting homemade meal that’s a savory chicken delight, proving how versatile this baked chicken recipe truly is.

Prep Ahead This Easy Amish Chicken Recipe

Getting Ready Before Baking

The easy Amish chicken recipe is an ideal candidate for meal prep, allowing you to get a head start and simplify your cooking process on busy days. You can prepare various components of this homemade meal in advance. For example, you can mix all your dry spices in a small airtight container, ready for dredging. The chicken pieces can be prepped, patted dry, and stored in the refrigerator. The most significant prep-ahead step involves fully assembling the dish without baking it. Coat the chicken pieces, arrange them in your greased baking dish, and pour the creamy sauce over them. Once assembled, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pull the dish from the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes while your oven preheats, and then bake as directed. This method ensures that on a busy weeknight, you have only the baking step remaining, making it a truly quick weeknight dinner solution and a delicious family-friendly chicken option. For a fast and easy dinner, try our Easy Honey Garlic Chicken.

Recipe Snapshot: Time and Servings

Quick Prep, Longer Cook

This easy Amish chicken recipe strikes a perfect balance between minimal hands-on effort and a comforting, slow-cooked feel. The “quick prep” aspect refers to the time it takes to gather your ingredients, dredge the chicken, and assemble the dish in the baking pan. Typically, this process takes no more than 15-20 minutes, making it incredibly appealing for those busy days when you need a swift start to dinner. However, the “longer cook” time in the oven is where the magic truly happens. While the chicken bakes for 60-75 minutes (or less for boneless), your kitchen fills with inviting aromas, and the creamy sauce develops its rich, savory depth. This extended baking period allows the chicken to become incredibly tender and juicy, and the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that signature comfort food experience without you needing to stand over the stove. It’s the ideal quick weeknight dinner that feels like a special homemade meal, proving that good things sometimes do take time, but not necessarily your active time.

How Many Does It Serve

The easy Amish chicken recipe, when prepared with approximately 2 to 3 pounds of chicken pieces, is generally designed to serve 4 to 6 people generously. This makes it an excellent family-friendly chicken option, perfect for a standard weeknight dinner or a small gathering. The number of servings can vary slightly depending on the size of the chicken pieces used and the appetites of your diners. If you’re using larger bone-in pieces, fewer pieces might be needed per person, whereas smaller boneless cuts could mean more pieces per serving. The rich, creamy sauce is also quite filling, especially when served with complementary sides like mashed potatoes or rice, which help extend the meal. If you’re planning for a larger crowd, simply double the recipe and use a larger baking dish or two separate dishes. This ensures everyone gets to enjoy a hearty portion of this delicious and comforting baked chicken, making it a versatile staple in any home cook’s repertoire.