For the first time in Chopped history, kid competitors have a chance at becoming a Chopped judge! In the first competition, judged by Amanda Freitag, Alex Guarnaschelli and Marc Murphy, a burger theme shapes what the kids must cook. For the appetizer round, they have to use an unusual popsicle and a small egg delicacy. The entree round delivers straightforward burger meat, but with a sweet oniony condiment. Then, the remaining kid cooks must figure out how to make burger-inspired desserts using a cured meat ingredient and fresh fruit.

The third and final seat at the judges' table is up for grabs! Four precocious kids tackle the mystery baskets, with a baking theme in effect. The appetizer basket reveals a South American sausage and a cheesy baked treat. The young cooks are surprised to find their protein in whole-animal form in the entree round, then the finalists must transform a tart berry and colorful cookie dough into delicious desserts. Amanda Freitag, Alex Guarnaschelli and Scott Conant serve as judges.