As some of you may know, I fell last Sunday and sustained a left broken ankle which required surgery. I am home and doing fairly well, just bored as I am on no weight-bearing, left leg, until I see the surgeon on Monday.

I intended to make this meal that fateful Sunday, but we all know how that turned out. My son Charles, who lives in Columbus, came to check on me and help me out. He prepared the dish you see. Now, to be fair, I didn’t have tomatoes or red bell pepper. But the flavor….. indescribable, except for the spiciness.

It is quick and easy; the recipe includes the Cajun Seasoning recipe.

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Serves: 4

INGREDIENTS

• 2-3 boneless, skinless, chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1-2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (recipe below)
• 12 ounces farfalle or bow tie pasta noodles
• 1 bell pepper diced
• 1/4 cup diced white onion
• fresh parsley

SAUCE

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 cup whole milk, heavy cream, or half and half
• 2-3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1/3 cup diced tomatoes

Cajun Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

INSTRUCTIONS

• In a small bowl whisk together all ingredients for the Cajun seasoning (or use store-bought). Sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of seasoning over chopped chicken pieces.
• Spray a large pan or non-stick skillet with cooking spray and cook chicken over medium heat for 5-8 minutes, stirring throughout until cooked. Place chicken in a bowl and set aside.
• In the same pan, melt butter and sauté peppers and onions for 2-3 minutes. Stir in flour until the mixture clumps together or comes together in a ball. Slowly whisk in milk. Stir in diced tomatoes.
• When mixture is smooth and creamy, stir in 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning (or more if you like spicier). Add pasta and chicken and stir to coat. Continue to stir until chicken is heated through. Serve warm and garnish with fresh parsley.

Bon Appetit!😋