Jacques Pepin Art Of The Chicken: A Master Chef's Paintings, Stories, & Recipes of the Humble Bird

From legendary chef Jacques Pepin, a book celebrating his lifelong love of chickens, featuring dozens of his celebrated paintings and more than 50 recipes, along with a treasure trove of poignant and often humorous stories.

Chicken may not be a fancy or extravagant ingredient, but for master chef Jacques Pépin, it is the one he turns to regularly. In this beautifully illustrated book, Jacques reminisces on his life through the lens of the humble bird, from his childhood in rural France, where he chased chickens and watched as his maman turned them into her poulet à la crème, to his demanding apprenticeship and long, illustrious career—cooking Chicken Chasseur for Charles de Gaulle and his family, turning down a chance to work as JFK’s White House Chef for a job at Howard Johnson’s, and appearing on television alongside food-world luminaries like Julia Child. Throughout are Jacques’ favorite chicken and egg recipes, conveyed as if he were sharing them over a dinner table. Most significantly, the book displays dozens of Jacques’ stunning paintings of chickens. “If it clucks or scratches, it’s likely that Jacques has painted it.” This unique little book is the next best thing to a visit to Jacques’ home, which would include a tour of his art studio, captivating conversation as he cooks, and a toast with a glass of wine over a simple meal of perfect roast chicken.

About the Author

The winner of sixteen James Beard Awards and author of thirty cookbooks, including Jacques Pépin Quick & Simple, Jacques Pépin Heart & Soul in the Kitchen, and Essential Pépin, as well as the acclaimed memoir, The Apprentice: My Life in the Kitchen, Jacques Pépin has starred in twelve award-winning PBS cooking series, winning a Daytime Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award. He was awarded France’s highest distinction, the Legion of Honor.