Although March marks the beginning of spring, April is when warmer and brighter weather usually starts. This month we’re celebrating with a vibrant dish your family can enjoy and appreciate. With the end of the school year just around the corner, we understand what that means.
As a parent, your schedule becomes hectic leading into the summer, which means summer camps and a plethora of activities for your kiddos to enjoy. So an easy and quick meal is a must. If you’ve been thinking about a new dish to indulge in, we’ve got you covered. Local mom Dana Miller is sharing a simple meal that works for her family, and we hope it works for your family, too.
Dana (Travel Agent for Cupcake Travel Company) was born and raised in Montgomery, AL. Her husband, Dean, a (Program Director for Jackson Wound Care), was born in San Diego and raised in Ocean Springs, MS, and moved to Montgomery in 2003. Dana and Dean have two children: Amy Lynn (16) and Madison (12). The Millers moved to Pike Road in 2007 to raise their family. Their daughters attend homeschool and community theater has been a large part of their family since 2013. Dean, Amy Lynn, and Madison were all just cast in various roles for the inaugural Pike Road Theatre Company production of Oliver. Dana prefers to stay out of the spotlight and helps behind the scenes.
Traveling is something else the Millers love to do as a family. Disney World and Universal are their favorite vacation spots. If not in Orlando, you will find them relaxing in the quiet town of Mentone, Alabama.
Trying different foods inspires Dana and Dean to cook. They credit their love for cooking to their mothers, as both started helping out in the kitchen at a young age. As a family, they enjoy baking together, and Dean enjoys being in the kitchen with his daughters and trying new recipes. Dana shares, “Recently, they made an apple pie, cherry pie, cheesecake, chocolate chip cookies, and French bread. All from scratch!”
Since the Millers are a busy family, they prefer quick, simple, and yummy meals. Favorites like tacos, spaghetti, crockpot meals, Philly cheese sandwiches, and soups are always in their rotation. Family dinner is always special in the Miller family, and they make a point to sit together at the dinner table. It has helped them stay connected as a family as they discuss their days.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breast cooked and shredded (I cheat and use Costco rotisserie chicken)
- Box of penne pasta-cooked
- 2 tsp Tony’s Creole Seasoning
- 2 tsp butter
- 1 tsp garlic
- 1/2 green bell pepper
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1/2 onion
- 1/2 pint of heavy whipping cream
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese
- Mushrooms (optional)
Directions
- Sauté the peppers and onion in the butter.
- Add chicken, spices, and mushrooms (optional).
- Add heavy whipping cream.
- Cook a few minutes to thicken.
- Toss with the cooked pasta and sprinkle with Tony’s seasoning and parmesan cheese to taste.
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.