Welcome to our culinary adventure, where we’ll be diving into the heartwarming flavors of Amish Chicken. This traditional dish combines tender chicken pieces with a rich and creamy sauce, creating a meal that’s sure to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or simply craving a taste of comfort, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
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: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish large enough to accommodate all of the chicken pieces.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the chicken pieces on both sides until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy whipping cream and water, stirring to combine with the pan drippings. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the browned chicken pieces to the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is coated evenly.
- **Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot alongside your favorite sides.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add More Flavor: Enhance the flavor of the creamy sauce by adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the skillet before simmering.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add more garlic powder for a bolder flavor or incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth.
- Make it Crispy: For extra crispy chicken, you can place the browned chicken pieces on a wire rack set on top of a baking sheet before baking in the oven.
- Serve with Sides: Amish Chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken pieces with skin on? A: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, keep in mind that they may not be as juicy or flavorful as chicken pieces with the skin on. Adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
Q: Can I use a substitute for heavy whipping cream? A: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy whipping cream. However, keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
Q: How can I ensure the chicken is cooked through? A: The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and chicken in the oven until warmed through.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour for dredging the chicken to keep it low-carb.
- Substitute heavy whipping cream with full-fat coconut milk or a combination of cream cheese and chicken broth for a keto-friendly creamy sauce.
- Adjust the seasonings to avoid added sugars or carb-heavy spices.
Low-Carb Version:
- Skip the dredging process altogether or use a low-carb alternative such as crushed pork rinds or almond meal.
- Replace heavy whipping cream with unsweetened almond milk or a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth for a lower calorie and carb option.
- Incorporate additional herbs and spices for flavor without adding extra carbs.
Experience the comforting flavors of Amish Chicken with this delicious and easy-to-follow recipe. From the crispy exterior of the chicken to the creamy richness of the sauce, every bite is a testament to the timeless appeal of home-cooked comfort food. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, this dish is sure to delight your senses and leave you longing for more. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of culinary bliss with this classic Amish Chicken recipe. Cheers to good food and cherished memories!
