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Chrissy Teigen fired, then becomes a successful model and cook

How Chrissy Teigen overcame rejection to become an international model and bestselling cookbook author

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Christine Teigen at a 2012 premiere in New York. PHOTO: David Shankbone

If you’re into a mix of glamour, wit, and a sprinkle of culinary adventure, then you’re probably already a fan of Chrissy Teigen.

Chrissy Teigen in a promotion by Style Caster. PHOTO: Mike Cucinotta

Known for her modeling, TV appearances, and candid social media presence, Chrissy brings a refreshing dose of reality to the celebrity chef scene.

Brutal: Told She Was Too Fat

However, early in her career, Chrissy faced a tough setback when she was let go from a photoshoot because the brand thought she was “too fat.” Instead of letting this get her down, Chrissy used it as motivation to push harder and prove herself in the modeling world.

A Taste of Chrissy’s Diet

Chrissy’s journey with food is as dynamic as her career. Once a strict follower of low-carb diets, she’s now embraced a more relaxed approach to eating—thanks to motherhood and her blossoming food career.

Indented Quote
If I’m going to eat fast food, I’m going to McDonald’s. I don’t need to pretend: Chrissy Teigen


From savory tweets about Taco Bell runs to Instagram posts of her latest spicy creations, Chrissy’s diet is all about embracing variety. She maintains a healthy lifestyle by mixing up high-protein and veggie-rich meals, steering clear of alcohol, and always leaving room for a little indulgence​.

Chrissy Teigen and husband John Legend at 2017 Grammy Awards Red Carpet. PHOTO: Rogue Artists

Balancing Health and Flavor

Deciding to go sober in 2020 was a game-changer for Chrissy. This shift not only enhanced her well-being but also refined her approach to food.

Whether it’s a cozy night in with her family or testing a new recipe for her next cookbook, Chrissy believes in enjoying food that feels good and tastes even better.

Her meals are often a colorful array of proteins and greens, spiced to perfection and shared with millions of her followers.

Chrissy Teigen’s cookbook ‘Cravings.’ PHOTO: Amazon composite

Chrissy Cooks – And Writes!

Chrissy’s cookbooks, especially her popular “Cravings” series, really show off her playful side and her love for food. Her first book, “Cravings: Recipes for All the Food You Want to Eat,” came out in 2016 and was a big hit thanks to its easy-to-follow and delicious recipes, covering everything from homey meals to fancy sweets.

The follow-up, “Cravings: Hungry for More,” keeps up the momentum, packed with more of Chrissy’s favorite recipes to enjoy with family.

Chrissy Teigen’s follow-up book, “Cravings: Hungry for More.” IMAGE: Amazon

What really makes her cookbooks stand out isn’t just the food—it’s how she brings her personality into the mix. She fills the pages with personal stories and lively comments, making you feel like you’re cooking alongside a friend. Plus, her recipes are a nod to her diverse background, blending various food traditions into something truly special.

Why We Love Chrissy’s Culinary Adventures

There’s something genuinely delightful about watching Chrissy navigate her kitchen.

Whether she’s whipping up a quick snack or diving deep into a complex recipe, her passion for food is palpable. Her cooking reflects her personal philosophy: eat what you love, love what you eat, and don’t sweat the small stuff—like an impromptu fast food treat.

About Chrissy Teigen: Quick Look

    When was Chrissy Teigen born?

    Chrissy Teigen was born on November 30, 1985.

    How old is Chrissy Teigen?

    Chrissy Teigen is 38 years old as of 2024.

    Is Chrissy Teigen married?

    Yes, Chrissy Teigen is married to musician John Legend.

    Does Chrissy Teigen have children?

    Chrissy Teigen and John Legend have four children: Luna, Miles, Esti Maxine, and Wren Alexander.

    Top 3 Chrissy Teigen movies?

    Chrissy Teigen is known for “Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation,” “Between Two Ferns: The Movie,” and “The Mitchells vs. the Machines.”

    What is Chrissy Teigen’s height?

    She stands at 5 feet 7 inches tall.

    Chrissy Teigen’s net worth?

    Chrissy Teigen’s net worth is estimated at $30 million.

    Fun Fact:

    Chrissy is not just about fashion and food; she once threw a ceremonial first pitch at a Major League Baseball game and did so in style!

Chrissy Teigen’s Daily Diet

Chrissy Teigen, model and cookbook author, loves sharing her cooking on social media. She balances healthy eating with treats, and her meals are as varied as her career.

From big breakfasts to special dinners, Chrissy’s food choices are all about enjoying both tasty and good-for-you dishes.

Poached egg and avocado on wholemeal toast. PHOTO: Stock image

Breakfast

Chrissy starts her day with eggs, prepared in various styles, sometimes accompanied by savory oats featuring mushrooms and cheese. On leisurely days, she might opt for boozy French toast casserole, adding a playful twist to her morning​.

Coconut chicken curry. PHOTO: Stock image

Lunch

Lunch is usually around 3 pm and features dishes like coconut chicken curry or avocado toast spiced with chili flakes. Salads with fresh citrus and burrata are also a favorite, dressed in lemon balsamic for a refreshing twist​.

Grilled salmon with spinach for dinner. PHOTO: Stock image

Dinner

Chrissy prefers substantial meals like Cajun salmon with spinach or fresh tomato basil soup for dinner, avoiding lighter meals that might leave her hungry at night. The holiday seasons see a feast with as many as 20 dishes, celebrating with lavishness and flavor.

Chrissy might avoid dessert for a ham and cheese sandwich instead. PHOTO: Stock image

Dessert

Despite her knack for cooking, Chrissy is not a big dessert eater. She admits she could easily skip sweets altogether, preferring to indulge in savory rather than sweet treats​.

Chrissy enjoys bone broth as a snack. PHOTO: Stock image

Snacks

Her snack choices include bone broth, Cup Noodles, and nuts. Interestingly, she has a peculiar habit of enjoying a ham and cheese sandwich as a midnight snack, half before sleep and half upon waking​.

Chrissy Teigen’s Daily Meal Quick Look
  • Breakfast Ingredients:
    Eggs (omelet, hard-boiled, over-easy)
    Savory oats (with mushrooms, cheese)
    Boozy French toast (with rum, Frosted Flake topping)

  • Lunch Ingredients:
    Coconut chicken curry
    Avocado on toast (with chili flakes)
    Blood orange, tangerine, and grapefruit salad (with burrata, basil, lemon balsamic dressing)

  • Dinner Ingredients:
    Cajun salmon with spinach
    Fresh tomato basil soup
    Baked fish

  • Snack Ingredients:
    Bone broth
    Cup Noodles
    Hot Pockets
    Nuts
    Honey roasted nuts
    Ham and cheese sandwich (with mayo)

Chrissy Teigen at the Australian Premiere of BATTLESHIP, Sydney, 2012. PHOTO: Eva Rinaldi

5 Food Quotes From Chrissy Teigen

“If I’m going to eat fast food, I’m going to McDonald’s. I don’t need to pretend.” Chrissy Teigen shares her straightforward approach to fast food, highlighting her preference for authenticity in her choices. (BrainyQuote)

“I wasn’t a model that loved food. I was someone that loved food that started modeling.” This quote emphasizes how Chrissy’s passion for food predates and defines her career, rather than the other way around. Her culinary passion is integral to her identity, not just a part of her model persona. (A-Z Quotes)

“I love anything hearty and I’m very vocal about my hatred for turkey.” Chrissy expresses her dislike for turkey despite its popularity, especially during festive seasons, showcasing her distinct and relatable food preferences. (Marie Claire)

“Seaweed sheets are my go-to for my salty chip cravings, especially wasabi flavored ones.” Here, Chrissy shares her preference for healthier snack options, opting for seaweed sheets to satisfy her cravings, highlighting her liking for wasabi flavor. (BrainyQuote)

“I drink a ton of water. And I never go to bed too full.” Chrissy shares a simple but essential part of her dietary routine, emphasizing hydration and moderation in her eating habits before bedtime. (IMDb)

Chrissy Teigen at Grand Park in downtown L.A., 2018. PHOTO: Luke Harold

Chrissy Teigen FAQ

Chrissy, model turned culinary influencer, shares her adventurous relationship with food through her cookbooks and social media. Here are some commonly asked questions about Chrissy’s eating habits, food dislikes, and diet insights.

What kind of cooking does Chrissy enjoy the most?

Chrissy enjoys a wide range of cooking styles but has a special love for creating hearty, comfort foods that blend flavors from American and Thai cuisines, reflecting her diverse background.

What is Chrissy’s favorite food to cook at home?

Chrissy loves cooking and often shares recipes for complex meals like her famous spicy miso pasta, which has become a fan favorite across the internet.

Does Chrissy follow any specific diet plan?

Chrissy does not stick to one specific diet plan; she prefers eating a balanced diet with a focus on enjoying food that is both satisfying and healthy.

What foods does Chrissy dislike?

Chrissy has a well-known disdain for certain foods, like turkey, which she finds unexciting and bland, regardless of how it’s prepared.

How does Chrissy balance her indulgences?

Chrissy balances her indulgences by incorporating lots of fresh, wholesome ingredients into her meals and maintaining an active lifestyle.

What is one of Chrissy’s unique cooking habits?

One unique aspect of Chrissy’s cooking is her willingness to experiment with unusual ingredient combinations, which often results in surprisingly delightful dishes.

Has Chrissy ever participated in any cooking competitions?

While Chrissy has not competed in traditional cooking competitions, she regularly engages in playful cook-offs on social media with friends and family.

How does Chrissy involve her children in cooking?

Chrissy loves cooking with her children and often shares these moments on her social media, teaching them simple recipes and instilling a love for food.

What’s a quirky food combination Chrissy loves?

Chrissy enjoys mixing sweet and savory elements, one example being her love for adding chips to sandwiches for an extra crunch and flavor contrast.

Diet Verdict

Chrissy Teigen’s daily meals, which include a variety of hearty dishes like coconut chicken curry, savory oats, and a preference for indulgent yet balanced eating, suggest a close resemblance to the Mediterranean Diet. This diet supports using whole foods, healthy fats, and an appreciation for diverse, flavorful meals.

What The Experts Say About Chrissy Teigen’s Diet Choices


Diversity in Meals

The variety in Chrissy Teigen’s diet, from spicy dishes to rich flavors, helps give a broader range of different nutrients which is better for overall health. (Nutrition Today)

Balanced Approach to Eating

Chrissy Teigen’s approach to balancing indulgent meals with wholesome foods is recommended for maintaining a healthy lifestyle without losing out. (Dietetics & Nutrition)

Focus on Fresh Ingredients

By using fresh ingredients, Chrissy Teigen’s cooking style gets the most nutritional value out of her meals, giving her essential vitamins and antioxidants. (Healthline Nutrition)

Incorporation of Healthy Fats

Chrissy Teigen’s use of ingredients like avocado and nuts in her diet provides healthy fats that are crucial for brain health and energy levels. (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition)

Moderation and Indulgence

Experts appreciate Chrissy’s realistic approach to diet, where she eats sensibly while keeping an overall nutritious diet and having a sustainable and enjoyable eating pattern. (Today’s Dietitian)

Chrissy Teigen at NBC Upfront, 2019. PHOTO: Adweek

3 Things You Didn’t Know About Chrissy Teigen


Chrissy’s Modeling Career Started on a Game Show

Before she was a renowned model and cookbook author, Chrissy Teigen’s first modeling job was as a briefcase model on the game show “Deal or No Deal.” This early gig was the launchpad for her subsequent modeling career.

A Harsh Rejection Early in Her Career

In her early days, Chrissy was fired from a Forever 21 photoshoot for being deemed “too fat” by the brand. This incident, rather than discouraging her, only fueled her determination to succeed in the modeling industry.

Discovered in a Surf Shop

Chrissy was discovered by a photographer while working in a surf shop. This chance encounter set her on the path to stardom, illustrating how sometimes, life’s biggest opportunities come from the most unexpected places.

About Chrissy Teigen
  • Stage Name: Chrissy Teigen
  • Full Name: Christine Diane Teigen
  • Born: November 30, 1985 (38 years old)
  • Place of Birth: Delta, Utah, USA
  • Occupation: Model, Television Personality, Author
  • Net Worth: $75 million
  • Food Style History: Fusion of Thai and American cuisine, loves spicy and hearty dishes
  • Cheat Day Foods: Fast food, particularly McDonald’s

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