I don't have a real recipe with measurements for my chicken stew. I just kind of make it up as I go. I made it for the first time one Christmas when I came home from college. It's guaranteed to cure a cold.

In this quote, John Legend describes his approach to making chicken stew, emphasizing that he doesn’t follow a strict recipe with precise measurements. Instead, he prefers a more intuitive approach, "making it up as I go." This suggests that cooking, for Legend, is a creative and flexible process rather than one bound by rigid instructions. It also hints at the personal connection he has to the dish, as it is a reflection of his unique tastes and preferences.

Legend shares that he first made this chicken stew during a visit home from college for Christmas, adding a layer of sentimental value to the dish. The memory of making it during a holiday that marks family reunions and nostalgia adds emotional significance to the stew, making it more than just a meal—it becomes a part of his personal history and family traditions. The fact that he associates it with the warmth of home and the spirit of Christmas shows how food can carry deeper meanings and memories.

The claim that his chicken stew is "guaranteed to cure a cold" suggests that Legend believes in its healing properties. This could be seen as a lighthearted way of expressing how comforting and satisfying the stew is, offering warmth and relief when feeling unwell. It reflects the power of comfort food—not just in its taste, but in its ability to provide emotional comfort and a sense of care, especially during times when one needs it most.

Ultimately, Legend’s quote reveals a more personal and casual approach to cooking, where the emphasis is on the joy and comfort food can bring rather than on exact measurements or technical expertise. It highlights the role of food in creating memories, providing healing, and nurturing relationships, especially during meaningful times like Christmas.