Chicken Creole

Sprinkle chicken with 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper. Heat large cast-iron or other heavy skillet over medium heat, brown chicken in oil; remove and set aside. In the same skillet, saute onion, celery, green pepper and garlic until tender. Stir in tomatoes, water, paprika, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, cayenne pepper and bay leaf; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 10 minutes. , Return chicken to skillet. Whisk cornstarch and cold water until smooth; stir into chicken mixture and bring to a boil. Simmer, uncovered, until chicken is tender, 10-15 minutes. Remove bay leaf before serving. If desired, serve with rice.