The theme for this competition is everyone's favorite all-American bun-buster, the hot dog! In the first round, the chefs get some very rare hot dogs and an uncommon condiment. A tiny ingredient causes big problems for two of the competitors in the entree round, and the last two chefs are left to tackle the strange challenge of making hot dog desserts.

The chefs battle in a Chopped chili challenge as they put their own spin on the classic American dish. Chocolate and sausage are two of the mandatory ingredients in the appetizer round, and degrees of spice and levels of creativity are big factors in the entree round. For dessert, chili-inspired sweet dishes are requested.