On the afternoon of August 7, Saigontourist Hospitality College buzzed with an electrifying energy as young talents from the Culinary Arts and Pastry Techniques departments went head-to-head at the Grand Finale of the 2026 US Chicken Cooking Competition. Co-organized by Saigontourist Hospitality College in partnership with the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council (USAPEEC), the event delivered a dynamic and highly practical professional playground that celebrated creativity, skill, and culinary excellence.
The program kicked off with an exclusive seminar introducing premium US chicken, led by Master Chef Norbert Ehrbar – Head Judge and Culinary Advisor to USAPEEC. Beyond offering deep insights into selecting, preserving, and preparing US chicken to preserve its signature flavor, Chef Ehrbar captivated the audience with his inspiring kitchen wisdom, accumulated over years of experience on the international gastronomic stage. The highlight of the seminar was his live cooking demonstration of three standout dishes: Taiwanese-style sticky rice-stuffed US chicken thighs, US chicken in Phu Quoc peppercorn sauce, and US chicken in Hanoi plum and ‘Doi’ nut sauce – a true showcase of culinary fusion and artistry.
Next, the spotlight turned to the 12 finalist teams as they took on the 60-minute challenge. From ingredient prep and cooking techniques to artistic plating and decoration, each team demonstrated impeccable preparation, solid professional expertise, and boundless creativity.
Following a rigorous and impartial evaluation, the champions were officially crowned:
First Prize: Trần Ngọc Hậu - Nguyễn Thành Nam
Second Prize: Trịnh Viết Đức - Trương Đình Hải
Third Prize: Lê Thùy Minh Trinh
Consolation Prizes: Nguyễn Tiến Kỳ Long - Phạm Thuận Phát; Huỳnh Ngọc Phượng - Nguyễn Văn Tùng
A huge congratulations to all the competing teams! Every dish presented was a testament to relentless practice, dedicated learning, and an enduring passion for the culinary arts.
Saigontourist Hospitality College would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council, esteemed experts, dedicated lecturers, and all the students who joined us on this journey. Your invaluable support and enthusiasm made this program a truly meaningful and resounding success!
