Introduction: Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Pot Pie Noodles
Pennsylvania Dutch-style chicken pot pie noodles are a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. This hearty dish consists of tender, homemade egg noodles layered with chunks of chicken and a savory gravy made from the chicken broth. While it’s called a pot pie, there is no crust, and the noodles act as the base instead. It’s a filling and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need to Make the Dish
To make Pennsylvania Dutch-style chicken pot pie noodles, you’ll need a few basic ingredients:
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Eggs
- Milk
- Chicken
- Carrots
- Celery
- Onion
- Butter
- Chicken broth
- Cornstarch
These ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, and you may have many of them already in your pantry. You can also customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using a different type of meat, such as beef or turkey.
Making the Dough: Step-by-Step Instructions
The first step in making Pennsylvania Dutch-style chicken pot pie noodles is to make the dough. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add 3 beaten eggs and 1/2 cup of milk.
- Using a fork, gradually mix the wet ingredients into the flour until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before rolling it out.
Making the dough is relatively straightforward, but it’s essential to give it time to rest before rolling it out. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to work with.
Rolling Out the Noodles: Tips and Tricks
Once the dough has rested, it’s time to roll it out into noodles. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the perfect consistency:
- Use a floured surface to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Roll the dough out very thin, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the noodles into 2-inch squares.
- Dust the noodles with flour to prevent them from sticking together.
Rolling out the noodles can take some practice, but the result is worth it. Thin, tender noodles will soak up the flavorful chicken broth and create a delicious base for the filling.
Preparing the Chicken Filling: Recipe Included
The chicken filling is the heart of the dish, and it’s crucial to get it right. Here’s a simple recipe for chicken pot pie filling:
- In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add 1 sliced onion, 2 sliced carrots, and 2 sliced celery stalks. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add 4 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 1/4 cup of cold water.
- Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the pot, stirring constantly, until the broth has thickened and the filling is heated through.
The chicken filling is simple but flavorful, with a rich and savory gravy that pairs perfectly with the tender noodles.
Assembling the Pot Pie: Layering the Noodles and Filling
Once you have your noodles and filling ready, it’s time to assemble the pot pie. Here’s how:
- In a large pot, layer the noodles and filling, starting with a layer of noodles and alternating with layers of filling.
- Make sure the top layer is noodles, and pour any remaining filling over the top.
- Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Layering the noodles and filling may seem simple, but it’s essential to ensure that the pot pie cooks evenly and the flavors meld together.
Cooking the Pot Pie: Stovetop versus Oven Method
There are two main ways to cook Pennsylvania Dutch-style chicken pot pie noodles: on the stovetop or in the oven. Here’s how to do both:
- Stovetop Method: After assembling the pot pie, cover the pot and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. After assembling the pot pie, cover the pot and bake for about 1 hour, or until the noodles are tender and the filling is bubbly.
The stovetop method is faster and more convenient, but the oven method creates a golden-brown crust on top that some people prefer.
Serving Suggestions: How to Plate and Garnish
When it’s time to serve your Pennsylvania Dutch-style chicken pot pie noodles, there are a few ways to make it look and taste even better:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of green beans or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Use a slotted spoon to scoop out the noodles and filling, making sure to get some of the rich gravy in each serving.
The presentation may not be as important as the taste, but adding a few finishing touches can make your pot pie look and taste even better.
Variations: Adding Vegetables or Different Meats
While the classic Pennsylvania Dutch-style chicken pot pie noodles recipe is delicious as is, you can also customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using a different type of meat. Here are a few ideas:
- Add peas, corn, or green beans for extra color and flavor.
- Use beef, pork, or turkey instead of chicken.
- Add dumplings or biscuits on top of the pot pie for a twist on the classic recipe.
There are countless ways to make this dish your own, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Storage and Reheating: How to Keep the Dish Fresh
If you have leftovers, it’s easy to store and reheat Pennsylvania Dutch-style chicken pot pie noodles. Here’s how:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply scoop out the desired amount of noodles and filling into a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Leftovers may not be as good as fresh, but they’re still tasty and convenient when you’re short on time.
History and Tradition: The Origins of Chicken Pot Pie
Pennsylvania Dutch-style chicken pot pie noodles have a rich history and tradition that goes back to the early settlers of Pennsylvania. Originally, the dish was called "bot boi" and was made with a crust on top, similar to a traditional pot pie. Over time, the crust was replaced with noodles, and the dish became more common in the Pennsylvania Dutch community. Today, it’s still a beloved comfort food that’s enjoyed by people all over the world.
Conclusion: Enjoying a Delicious and Authentic Meal
Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or looking for a new recipe to try, Pennsylvania Dutch-style chicken pot pie noodles are a delicious and authentic meal that’s sure to satisfy. With a few basic ingredients and some simple techniques, you can create a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So why not give it a try and see why this recipe has been a favorite for generations?
