My name’s Ellie Monroe, and I’m a 42-year-old homegrown chef living just outside Asheville, North Carolina. I didn’t train in a fancy culinary school, and I don’t wear a starched white jacket, but my kitchen is my haven, and the scent of garlic sizzling in olive oil is my kind of symphony.
I cook because it brings me joy, and over the years, I’ve discovered that joy is even better when it’s shared, especially when there’s chicken involved.
My love affair with cooking began when I was nine, sitting on the counter while my grandmother basted her famous buttermilk roast chicken.
I remember the crackle of the skin, the way her house always smelled like something savory was just about ready, and the little pat on my head she’d give me when I asked for a second helping.
That one dish did something magical, it made people smile, slow down, gather around. I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since.
These days, I spend most of my time helping folks who are just starting out in the kitchen, people who maybe don’t know the difference between thighs and drumsticks, or who’ve burned chicken breasts so often they’re ready to give up.
I’ve been there. Trust me. I’ve undercooked, overcooked, and everything in between. But the best part about learning to cook is that every “oops” can turn into an “aha!”, especially when you’re not afraid to play a little.
Chicken, to me, is the perfect canvas. It’s forgiving, affordable, and downright comforting. Whether it’s a five-ingredient skillet meal after a long day or a slow-roasted Sunday feast with all the trimmings, chicken has a way of bringing people together.
My philosophy is simple: use what you have, taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to get your hands a little messy.
So welcome to my kitchen. You don’t need fancy tools or a ton of experience. All you need is a little curiosity, a pinch of patience, and maybe a good apron. Let’s make something delicious, one chicken recipe at a time.