About Chef Jenn

Hi, I’m Chef Jenn Allen, and I’m all about cooking what you love!

I’m a retired chef, cookbook author, recipe developer, food photographer, blogger, and mom to two hungry teens. I’m a HUGE foodie and have been living the life of a foodie for most of my life. I’m also a co-founder of Food Drink Life, a colossal digital magazine. I was a professional chef and restaurant/business owner for more than 15 years, then I hung up my chef’s coat and turned to creating recipes for the whole world to enjoy.

chef jenn allen
Cook What You Love with Chef Jenn!

At Cook What You Love, the food is all about creating the kind of food that doesn’t just taste good but that rocks your world. I use my professional chef background to ensure that every recipe is tried, tested, and perfected. You’ll get a solid recipe but also tips and techniques to up your cooking game.

My food is inspired by big, bold Southwestern flavors, which I mastered from living in Texas for more than 20 years, and by my love of Mediterranean flavors. You’ll find Traeger smoker recipes along with desserts, sides, entrees, and even some of my favorite cocktails on these pages.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or are just starting out, there are recipes here for you to love.

A horizontal image of Smoked Chicken Al Pastor on a vertical skewer.
Chicken al Pastor