Dive into the heartwarming embrace of a traditional Amish kitchen with our Amish Chicken Corn Noodle Soup. This soul-soothing recipe, passed down through generations, combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and comforting noodles in a rich broth. As you prepare this soup, envision the simplicity and warmth of Amish hospitality, turning each spoonful into a taste of culinary heritage. Join us on a journey through the flavors and traditions that make this soup a cherished classic.
Ingredients
Meat
- 2 cups Chicken, cooked
Produce
- 1/2 cup Carrots, finely chopped
- 1 cup Celery, diced
- 1 Garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp Onion, dried
- 1 tsp Parsley flakes
- 1 tsp Thyme, dried
Canned Goods
- 8 cups Chicken broth
Pasta & Grains
- 12 oz Noodles
Baking & Spices
- 3/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Seasoned salt
Dairy
- 1 1/2 tbsp Butter
Liquids
- 4 cups Water
Other
- 2 cups sweet corn (whole kernel or creamed)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Cook the Chicken:
- Boil or roast chicken until fully cooked. Shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop and Dice:
- Finely chop carrots, dice celery, mince garlic, and prepare dried onion.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add dried onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and diced celery.
- Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Simmer the Broth
- Add Broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth and water.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Season the Broth:
- Add black pepper, salt, seasoned salt, parsley flakes, and dried thyme.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste.
Step 4: Incorporate Chicken and Corn
- Chicken Addition:
- Introduce the cooked, shredded chicken to the simmering broth.
- Corn Inclusion:
- Add sweet corn to the pot, choosing either whole kernel or creamed corn based on preference.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
- Noodle Boil:
- Cook the noodles separately according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Add the cooked noodles to the soup.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle into Bowls:
- Ladle the Amish Chicken Corn Noodle Soup into bowls, ensuring a generous mix of chicken, vegetables, and noodles in each serving.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Garnish with additional parsley flakes or a dash of black pepper if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Homemade Broth: For an authentic touch, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or extra vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk to create a creamy texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version
- Noodle Swap: Replace traditional noodles with keto-friendly alternatives like shirataki noodles or zucchini noodles.
- Low-Carb Corn Option: Use lower-carb vegetables like diced bell peppers or broccoli instead of sweet corn.
- Dairy Adjustment: Opt for full-fat dairy options to maintain keto-friendly fat content.
Low-Carb Version
- Noodle Alternatives: Choose low-carb pasta or cauliflower rice as a substitute for traditional noodles.
- Corn Replacement: Replace sweet corn with lower-carb vegetables like cherry tomatoes or green beans.
- Reduced Broth: Adjust the amount of water to reduce the carb content of the broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use frozen corn?
Certainly! If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn can be a convenient and flavorful alternative. Simply thaw before adding it to the soup.
Q2: How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Q3: Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup without the noodles. Add cooked noodles when reheating to maintain their texture.
Q4: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken adds a quick and flavorful touch to the soup.
Q5: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Certainly! Sauté the vegetables, then transfer all ingredients (except noodles) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until flavors meld.
In conclusion, the Amish Chicken Corn Noodle Soup is a testament to the comforting and timeless appeal of homestyle cooking. Each spoonful captures the essence of Amish culinary traditions, blending simple yet wholesome ingredients into a bowl of nourishing warmth. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with loved ones, this soup offers a taste of heritage and the joy of a well-prepared meal. Revel in the simplicity, savor the flavors, and create lasting memories with a soup that transcends time and trends.