Amish cooking is all about simple ingredients and hearty flavors that bring comfort to the table. Our Amish Chicken Recipe makes its own gravy, combining tender, juicy chicken with a rich sauce that’s perfect for soaking up every bite. This dish captures the essence of traditional home-cooked meals that have been passed down through generations.
What makes this recipe stand out is how the gravy forms naturally from the chicken’s drippings, creating a luscious, savory sauce without any extra fuss. It’s a perfect example of how wholesome ingredients and straightforward techniques can deliver incredible taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends this Amish chicken recipe will become a go-to for cozy dinners and special occasions alike.
Ingredients
To master this Amish Chicken Recipe that naturally makes its own gravy we gather simple wholesome ingredients. Each element works together to deliver that hearty flavor Amish cooking is known for.
For the Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds) — trimmed and patted dry
- 2 teaspoons salt — to season evenly
- 1 teaspoon black pepper — freshly ground for depth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil — for searing and crisping skin
- 3 cloves garlic — minced for aroma
- 1 large onion — sliced thinly to caramelize and flavor the chicken
- 2 stalks celery — chopped finely for a subtle freshness
- 1 large carrot — diced to add sweetness and color
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme — or fresh if available for herbal notes
- 1 cup chicken broth — low sodium to keep balance in the final gravy
For the Gravy
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour — to thicken the natural drippings into gravy
- 1 cup reserved chicken broth — added gradually to create smooth consistency
- Salt and pepper — to adjust seasoning after reducing
- Optional: ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning — for extra complexity enhancing the traditional flavor
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Whole chicken | 4 pounds | Main protein |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon | Flavoring |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons | Searing and crisping |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Aromatic flavor |
| Onion | 1 large | Sweetness and moisture |
| Celery | 2 stalks | Freshness |
| Carrot | 1 large | Sweetness and color |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | Herbal notes |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup + 1 cup | Moisture and gravy base |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons | Thickener for gravy |
| Poultry seasoning optional | ½ teaspoon | Flavor enhancer |
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Amish Chicken Recipe that makes its own gravy perfectly, gathering the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a crucial role in ensuring even cooking, developing deep flavors, and crafting the rich, homemade gravy that defines this dish.
Essential Tools for the Chicken and Gravy
- Large Oven-Safe Skillet or Roasting Pan
Use this to sear and roast the whole chicken. It must be oven-safe to allow for stove-to-oven transfer, which helps develop a crispy golden skin and tender meat.
- Meat Thermometer
To guarantee safe and juicy chicken, a digital meat thermometer is vital. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone to check doneness.
- Wooden Spoon or Heatproof Spatula
We use this to stir flour into chicken drippings when creating the gravy. A sturdy wooden spoon prevents scratching and offers good control when whisking the roux.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurements of flour, broth, and seasonings ensure consistent gravy thickness and flavor.
- Small Whisk
For incorporating reserved chicken broth smoothly into the flour and drippings mixture, preventing lumps and achieving silky gravy.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife
Required for chopping garlic, onion, celery, and carrot, contributing fresh flavor layers to the dish.
Optional but Helpful Equipment
- Basting Brush
Helps evenly coat the chicken skin with oil, promoting a uniform crispy texture.
- Colander or Fine Mesh Strainer
Useful if you prefer to strain the chicken drippings to remove solids before making the gravy.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Oven-Safe Skillet | Searing and roasting whole chicken |
| Meat Thermometer | Checking chicken internal temperature |
| Wooden Spoon/Heatproof Spatula | Stirring flour into drippings for gravy |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Small Whisk | Mixing broth into gravy smoothly |
| Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife | Chopping vegetables for flavor base |
| Basting Brush (optional) | Coating chicken skin with oil |
| Colander/Strainer (optional) | Removing solids from drippings for smooth gravy |
By assembling these tools ahead of time, we streamline the cooking process and ensure that our Amish Chicken with homemade gravy comes out beautifully tender, flavorful, and with that signature, rich sauce every time.
Prep Work
Before we begin cooking our Amish Chicken Recipe, proper prep work ensures a perfectly seasoned and juicy chicken with rich, homemade gravy. Let’s break down the essential steps to prepare the chicken and seasoning to maximize flavor and texture.
Preparing the Chicken
- Clean the Chicken: Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels. Dry skin ensures a crispy, golden crust.
- Trim Excess Fat: Remove any excess skin or fat around the cavity and neck area for even cooking.
- Air-Dry: Place the chicken on a wire rack in the refrigerator uncovered for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This step further dries the skin to help browning.
- Prepare Aromatics: Chop garlic, onion, celery, and carrot into medium-sized pieces. These will infuse the chicken and form the base of the gravy.
- Preheat Equipment: Heat your large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan to medium-high on the stove before searing the chicken to lock in juices.
Seasoning the Chicken
- Salt and Pepper: Generously season the entire chicken inside and out with salt and freshly ground black pepper for balanced flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Sprinkle dried thyme evenly over the chicken skin. Optional: Add poultry seasoning for a deeper traditional taste.
- Oil Rub: Lightly coat the chicken with vegetable oil to enhance browning and help the seasonings stick.
- Stuff the Cavity: Insert some of the prepared garlic, onion, celery, and carrot into the cavity. This adds aromatic flavor from within as it roasts.
| Seasoning Ingredients | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Salt | 1 ½ teaspoons | Flavor enhancer |
| Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon | Adds subtle heat and aroma |
| Dried Thyme | 1 teaspoon | Brings earthy herbal notes |
| Poultry Seasoning (optional) | ½ teaspoon | Adds depth and traditional flavor |
| Vegetable Oil | 1 tablespoon | Helps skin brown and crisp |
“A well-prepared chicken is the foundation of great flavor and a robust homemade gravy,” so taking the time on this prep work is key to our authentic Amish Chicken Recipe experience.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to cook the Amish Chicken Recipe that Makes Its Own Gravy perfectly. We guide you through roasting the chicken to juicy tenderness and crafting a rich, homemade gravy from the pan drippings.
Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures a crispy exterior and moist interior.
- In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place the seasoned whole chicken breast side down in the hot skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes without moving it. This develops a golden-brown crust essential for flavor.
- Flip the chicken to the breast side up. Add the prepared aromatics—sliced garlic cloves, chopped onion, celery, and carrot—around the chicken.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
- Halfway through roasting, baste the chicken with the pan juices using a basting brush to keep the meat juicy.
- When cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Making the Gravy from Pan Drippings
- Place the roasting pan with the drippings on the stovetop over medium heat. If you used a skillet, transfer all drippings and vegetables into it.
- Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the hot drippings. Stir with a wooden spoon or whisk for 2-3 minutes to cook the flour and form a roux. This step eliminates any raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in 2 cups of reserved chicken broth. Continue whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to thicken.
- Simmer the gravy for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches a rich, velvety consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Optional: Strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve to remove vegetables and any lumps for an ultra-smooth finish.
- Serve the gravy warm alongside the carved Amish chicken for a classic homestyle meal.
| Step | Details | Time/Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Searing Chicken | Medium-high heat, 2 tbsp vegetable oil | 5-7 minutes |
| Roasting Chicken | 375°F (190°C) oven | ~1 hour 15 minutes |
| Resting Chicken | Tent with foil, no heat | 10-15 minutes |
| Making Roux | Medium heat, whisk flour into drippings | 2-3 minutes |
| Simmering Gravy | Medium heat, whisk in broth and thicken | 5-7 minutes |
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Amish Chicken Recipe Makes Own Gravy, pairing it with classic sides and thoughtful presentation enhances both flavor and appeal. Here are our top serving suggestions to create a wholesome homestyle meal:
- Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect canvas for soaking up the rich, homemade gravy. Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery texture. Serve immediately to capture warmth and softness.
- Seasonal Roasted Vegetables
Roasted carrots, green beans, and parsnips add color and earthiness. Lightly season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil to complement the flavors of the chicken.
- Buttermilk Biscuits or Dinner Rolls
Soft, flaky biscuits or warm dinner rolls offer a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the savory gravy. Serve freshly baked for that tender crumb.
- Simple Green Salad
Balance the hearty main with a crisp salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. This adds freshness and texture contrast.
- Classic Amish Apple Pie (optional dessert)
Finish the meal with a slice of homemade apple pie for an authentically Amish dining experience.
Table: Suggested Side Dish Preparations
| Side Dish | Preparation Tips | Serving Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Boil peeled potatoes until tender, mash with butter and cream | Hot | Excellent with gravy on top |
| Roasted Vegetables | Toss chopped veggies with olive oil and seasoning; roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes | Warm | Use fresh seasonal produce |
| Buttermilk Biscuits | Bake until golden brown with flaky layers | Warm | Brush tops with melted butter |
| Green Salad | Toss mixed greens with vinaigrette just before serving | Cold | Adds refreshing crispness |
Tip: Serve the chicken sliced onto warm plates with generous ladles of the pan gravy spooned over each portion. This presentation invites everyone to savor the juicy tenderness and rich flavors with every bite.
By combining these sides, we create a well-rounded plate that embodies the heart of Amish cooking and makes our chicken recipe shine.
Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure a stress-free cooking experience with our Amish Chicken Recipe Makes Own Gravy, we recommend the following make-ahead strategies. These tips help deepen flavors and save valuable time on your serving day.
Prepare and Season the Chicken in Advance
- Clean and trim the whole chicken as instructed.
- Rub the chicken thoroughly with vegetable oil, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and optional poultry seasoning.
- Stuff the cavity with the prepared aromatics (garlic, onion, celery, carrot).
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours to allow the seasoning to penetrate deeply.
This resting period enhances the chicken’s flavor, making it more aromatic and tender when cooked.
Pre-Chop Aromatics and Vegetables
- Dice the garlic, onion, celery, and carrot as directed.
- Store in a sealed container or resealable bag in the refrigerator.
- This prep step reduces active kitchen time and lets us focus on roasting and gravy-making later.
Make the Gravy Base Ahead
- After roasting the chicken, reserve the pan drippings and strain them to remove solids.
- Combine the drippings with chicken broth and store the mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- When ready, gently reheat and whisk in flour to create the gravy.
This technique allows us to smooth out the sauce and adjust its thickness without rushing.
Resting and Reheating Chart
| Task | Preparation Time | Storage Method | Storage Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seasoning and Stuffing | 15 minutes | Wrapped/plastic wrap | Up to 24 hours | Remove from fridge 30 min before cooking |
| Chopped Aromatics | 10 minutes | Sealed container | Up to 24 hours | Use directly from fridge |
| Gravy Base (Drippings + Broth) | 10 minutes | Airtight container | Up to 24 hours | Reheat gently on low heat, stir to thicken |
Quote to Inspire
“The secret to any great homestyle meal is in the preparation — the flavors have time to marry and transform.”
By following these Make-Ahead Tips, we allow the natural tastes of the Amish chicken and its rich gravy to mature, creating an irresistible dish that’s both comforting and impressive.
Conclusion
This Amish Chicken Recipe truly showcases how simple ingredients and thoughtful techniques come together to create a comforting, flavorful meal. The homemade gravy made from the chicken’s own drippings adds a rich depth that elevates the dish without any fuss.
By embracing traditional methods and wholesome ingredients, we can bring a bit of Amish warmth to our own kitchens. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe offers a satisfying experience that’s both approachable and delicious.
With a little prep and the right tools, making this classic meal becomes an enjoyable part of our cooking routine, delivering hearty flavors that everyone will appreciate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients in Amish Chicken Recipe?
The key ingredients include a whole chicken, salt, black pepper, vegetable oil, garlic, onion, celery, carrot, dried thyme, chicken broth, and optional poultry seasoning. These simple, wholesome ingredients create the hearty flavors typical of Amish cooking.
How is the gravy made in this Amish chicken recipe?
The gravy is made by creating a roux with all-purpose flour using the chicken drippings, then whisking in reserved chicken broth and simmering until thickened. Optional straining ensures a smooth, rich sauce.
What equipment do I need to make Amish Chicken?
You need a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, a meat thermometer, wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, measuring cups and spoons, a small whisk, cutting board, chef’s knife, and optionally a basting brush and strainer.
How do I prepare the chicken for roasting?
Clean and trim excess fat, air-dry for better browning, stuff the cavity with garlic, onion, celery, and carrot, then season generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and optional poultry seasoning before rubbing with oil.
What temperature should the chicken be cooked to?
Roast the chicken at 375°F (190°C) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Can I prepare the Amish Chicken Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can season the chicken and chop aromatics in advance. The gravy base can also be made earlier. Proper resting and reheating will enhance the flavors and make cooking stress-free.
What sides pair well with Amish Chicken?
Recommended sides are creamy mashed potatoes, seasonal roasted vegetables, buttermilk biscuits or dinner rolls, and a simple green salad. For dessert, classic Amish apple pie is a perfect choice.
Why is basting important during roasting?
Basting halfway through cooking helps keep the chicken juicy by moistening the surface and promoting even browning, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
What makes Amish cooking special?
Amish cooking focuses on simple, wholesome ingredients, straightforward techniques, and hearty flavors, delivering comfort and richness in traditional home-cooked meals.