Chicken Boudine

We made this tonight and it was pretty easy and yummy! Though, in typical Paula Deen fashion, not very healthy. I remember Paula saying that if you’re trying a recipe for the first time, you should make it like it says so you know what it’s supposed to taste like. After that, modify.

If you buy all the ingredients already sliced and diced (like cooked, diced chicken, shredded cheese, etc), it’s even easier. However, I couldn’t stomach spending the money for cooked chicken when boneless, skinless breasts were on sale. So I had to cook the chicken (30 minutes at 350), then boil the noodles. After that, everything else was quick.

Also, I forgot to buy almonds so left those out, which Mapgeek didn’t mind (not a nut fan). I also didn't use dry sherry, though the sherry was probably intended to complement the almonds, which weren’t there. Next time, I’ll probably use white wine or just broth. Probably also try light cheese for the healthier option. Of course, all of this means I broke Paula’s rule (see above), but it still was tasty!

One other consideration is that I did halve the recipe, since it’s just 2.5 of us eating it. I usually make a full casserole recipe, divide it into two Gladware casserole pans and freeze one for a screaming kid day.

Chicken Boudine
Recipe courtesy Paula Deen
Show: Paula's Home Cooking
Episode: Fridge Finds

2 cups cooked egg noodles
2 (10 3/4-ounce) cans cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup dry sherry
4 cups chopped cooked chicken
3 cups grated sharp cheese, your choice, divided
1 (2 1/4-ounce) package slivered almonds, toasted
1/4 cup drained, chopped pimentos
1 (4-ounce) can sliced mushrooms, drained
Salt and pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a large bowl, toss together the noodles, soup, broth, and sherry. Add the chicken, 2 cups of the cheese, the almonds, pimento, mushrooms, and salt and pepper, to taste, and toss gently to combine. Transfer the mixture to a greased 13 by 9 by 2-inch casserole and top with the remaining cup of cheese.

Bake for 30 minutes, or until bubbly.