Frequently Asked Questions
What is Amish Comfort Chicken Bake?
Amish Comfort Chicken Bake is a heartwarming traditional recipe from Ohio featuring juicy chicken pieces coated in spices and baked in a rich, creamy homemade gravy.
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6-8 cleaned chicken pieces, such as thighs, drumsticks, or breasts, which are dredged in a seasoned flour mixture.
What are the main spices used in the breading?
The chicken is seasoned with a blend of garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika mixed into all-purpose flour.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
You should preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
Should the chicken be skin side up or down?
The floured chicken pieces should be arranged skin side up in a generously greased baking dish.
What liquid is used to make the gravy in the pan?
The gravy is created by mixing 1.5 cups of heavy whipping cream with 1.5 cups of water and pouring it over the chicken.
How long does the chicken bake while covered?
The dish should be covered with aluminum foil and baked for exactly 1 hour.
How long do I bake the chicken after removing the foil?
After the initial hour, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes to brown the skin.
What is the target internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to provide 4 to 6 servings.
What should I serve with Amish Comfort Chicken?
It is perfect for serving over creamy mashed potatoes, hearty stuffing, or even rice to soak up the flavorful gravy.
Is the baking dish supposed to be greased?
Yes, you should use a generously greased baking dish to prevent sticking.
Should the chicken rest before serving?
Yes, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking helps keep the juices inside the meat.
Can I use heavy whipping cream substitutes?
While heavy whipping cream provides the richest texture, you can experiment with half-and-half, though the gravy may be thinner.
What kind of flour is best for dredging?
Standard all-purpose flour is used to create the coating for the chicken pieces.
How much garlic powder is needed?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of garlic powder in the flour mixture.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is described as a simple and straightforward preparation that is a staple for family meals.
Can I add more paprika?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons, but you can adjust seasonings to your personal preference for color and flavor.
Do I mix the cream and water before pouring?
Yes, you should mix the heavy whipping cream and water in a separate bowl until well blended before adding it to the dish.
What is the total cooking time?
The total baking time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Why is the chicken baked uncovered for 30 minutes?
Removing the foil for the final 30 minutes allows the chicken skin to become golden brown and crispy.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
While the original recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you could substitute it with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for similar results.
Is this a traditional Amish dish?
Yes, it originates from the treasured Amish traditions of Ohio.
How much salt is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of salt for seasoning the chicken coating.
Can I use chicken breasts only?
Yes, you can use any chicken pieces you prefer, though bone-in pieces often provide more flavor to the gravy.
Should the chicken be cleaned before cooking?
The ingredients list specifies using cleaned chicken pieces for the best results.
Is the gravy thick or thin?
The combination of the flour coating and the cream creates a rich, homemade gravy that is thick enough to drench over sides.
What happens if I don't use foil?
The foil helps keep the chicken moist during the majority of the cooking time; skipping it may result in drier meat or over-browned skin.
Does this recipe include vegetables?
This specific recipe focuses on the chicken and gravy, so vegetables would be served as a side dish.
What is the primary flavor profile?
It is a savory, comforting, and creamy dish with mild spices that appeal to the whole family.