Chicken Sauce Piquante

I've mentioned many times that Chef John Folse's book, The Evolution of Cajun and Creole Cuisine is my favorite cookbook and often my "go to" when I am looking for something special to cook for my family. Marguerite from Cajun Delights posted this recipe of John Folse's which I had seen many times in my big yellow cookbook. Marguerite inspired me ton finally give this a try.

This is a classic Cajun chicken dish perfect for this time of year. It's hardy and chocked full of flavor. The ingredients are readily available no matter where you live. So come with me and be an honorary Cajun for a meal!

Season one whole cut up chicken thoroughly with Cajun seasoning and sprinkle with Worcestershire sauce.

Cover and marinate in fridge, for 1 hour.

In heavy dutch oven, heat 1/2 cup of vegetable or canola oil over medium heat and saute seasoned chicken until golden brown. (about 10 minutes on each side) Remove from oil and set aside.

Add 1/2 cup of flour to the pot, using a wire whisk, and stir continuously until a medium brown roux is reached. Add one 8 ounce can of tomato sauce, slowly, and continue to stir for 5 minutes, until sauce is a rich reddish brown color. Add a little water, if needed.

Add 1 cup of chopped onions, 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers, 1/2 cup chopped celery, and 1-1/2 tablespoons of minced garlic and saute and stir for about 3 minutes. Add one 16 ounce can of crushed or diced tomatoes and one 10 ounce can of Rotel tomatoes, 2-1/2 cups of chicken stock (and 1 cup of water if the sauce seems too thick). Stir until well blended and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and add chicken, 1 teaspoon of salt, a few shakes of cayenne, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add 1/2 cup of sliced green onions and 1/2 cup of chopped parsley and simmer for 10 more minutes.

Your house is going to smell some good yeah!

Serve over steamy white rice and make sure you have plenty of crunchy French bread on hand for sopping up every last drop.

As Marguerite says, "Oh cest bon, cher! Le Bon Manger!"