Armenian Chef Ara Zada’s Khorovats Wins Challenge on Food Network, Helping Green Team Take Victory

Los Angeles-based Armenian chef Ara Zada is bringing Armenian flavors to a national audience through his appearance on the new season of Chopped: Castaways, where he competes as one of 12 elite chefs in an outdoor, open-flame cooking competition.

During the show, Zada prepared khorovats, the traditional Armenian-style barbecue that holds deep cultural significance for many Armenians around the world. According to Zada, introducing Armenian cuisine to mainstream American television was one of the most meaningful parts of the experience.

“It was always my dream to be on Food Network. It was my Nene’s (grandma’s) dream to maybe one day see me on Food Network. I finally got to make that dream a reality,” Zada told The Armenian Report in an interview.

“It was also very important for me to show my Armenian heritage being one of the first Armenian chefs to appear on the Food Network. I’m definitely the only chef to ever make or say khorovats on the Food Network. The judges received it very well. They loved that I was making ethnic food and adding my Armenian flavors. They loved the dish. Our green team won that challenge,” he added.

Zada first announced his participation in the competition in April 2026 through a social media post, where he shared his excitement about joining the series.

“I can officially announce I am one of the 12 elite chefs competing on Chopped: Castaways premiering on Food Network May 12th!! It’s a competition unlike any you’ve ever seen. I’m so excited for this show, it’s going to be incredible,” he wrote.

Known for blending Armenian culinary traditions with modern techniques, Zada has built a growing reputation as a chef, author, and content creator focused on sharing Armenian cuisine with wider audiences. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu, he has previously appeared on television programs including 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing, No Passport Required, and Recipe Lost & Found.

The new season of Chopped: Castaways airs on Food Network and is also available for streaming on HBO Max. New episodes are released every Tuesday, with the season consisting of eight episodes total.

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