Heartache, Headaches and Food

Today was one full of heartache (going through a bit of a break up and it's taking it's toll) and a huge headache (I think it was leftover from my massage) and that always leads me to one of my ways of removing stress: Food! I was also so blessed and pleased to see that 6 people are now following this little venture of mine. Thanks Kris for linking this blog to yours!! You truly are a lovely friend!

So today I want to share one of my favourite recipes that is a comfort food for me (I haven't made it in quite a while, but I also know it is a crowd pleaser). Years and YEARS ago I used to work in a Lebanese restaurant in my hometown of Gibsons, BC. This item was not on the menu, but one of the cooks (Sam) would cook it up for us workers from time to time and I finally twisted his arm for the recipe one day before I left to go back to university. Again... there aren't really any exact measurements and there are no pictures today (maybe the next time I make it), so please enjoy experimenting and changing it to fit your tastes. :)

Sam's Chicken Pasta

Start out with some boneless, skinless chicken (use whatever amount that will serve your number) and chop it into bit-sized pieces. You will then want to brown the chicken in a large skillet for about 2 or 3 minutes (it will continue to cook as you build the sauce and won't become rubbery). Next you will want to chop up 2 cloves of fresh garlic and some cilantro. Add these along with some black pepper (I like freshly ground the best), a pinch of salt, oregano and paprika to the chicken. You're chicken should be about cook by this point and you will want to pour equal parts of milk and whipping cream (the more chicken you have, the more milk and cream you need... for 2 servings of chicken you only really need about 1/2 cup of each) over the chicken and spices. After stirring for a minute or two, toss in about 1/4 cup of FRESH grated parmesan cheese. The sauce will be thick, creamy and have some wonderfully fresh flavours. If you really can't stomach the taste of cilantro (it's not for everyone) use dill instead, it still gives a fresh spike to the sauce and could use a touch of lemon too if you like.
While you are working out the sauce, make some pasta of your choice to pour the sauce over. Enjoy!! Make some garlic bread to accompany it if you like...

So there, pasta helps to heal heartaches (I'm not sure the creamy, rich sauce is good for the headache). I hope it brings joy to your tastebuds and tummies!!