A Food Network star visited inmates at the Orange Correctional Center in Hillsborough on Wednesday.

He came to share cooking tips – but even more, he shared his own inspirational story of life behind bars — inspiring inmates on a path for a second chance.

The clang of prison gates – and the sight of razor wire – are familiar to celebrity chef Jeff Henderson. Even with top selling cook books – and his TV star power – it’s memories of his prison past that keeps him grounded.

In his 20’s and 30’s, Henderson served nearly 10 years for selling drugs.

Then he discovered his kitchen skills as a path to a new life.

Now he visits correctional facilities across the country – and shares his “jail house” cuisine tips.

“Everything that I do to make a living today, was born in prison,” he says, joking about making ‘Penitentiary Nachos’ and ‘Penitentiary Croûtons.’

“Because they give you a little crunch and a little bit of texture,” he said.

That’s why he has a heart for those still stuck on the inside.

Without knives – or perishable foods – hard boiled eggs, an avocado and greens can become a meal.

“Gotta have pickles in that tuna, right? So we’re going to put the flip on the jail house tuna dish,” he says, creating a dish that looks like it could be at any 5-star restaurant.

Despite his present fame, Henderson will never forget his past.

“I still got my number. I’m still a convicted felon 16138198 – and I’ve never forgotten where I come from,” he says.

Even after all that, Henderson found his dream career. He is also happily married to his wife Stacy, with five children. The family lives in Las Vegas.

“So now it’s time to get out and go carve out your own version of the American dream. It can be done; don’t matter what your past is,” he says.