Fan-favorite cooking show “Chopped” is getting a fresh spin. “Chopped Castaways” offers an interesting take on the long-running competition series, shaking things up. The chefs will take on survival-based challenges while still trying to whip up fabulous feasts. “Chopped Castaways” premieres on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 9 p.m. ET on Food Network. We suggest watching it on Food Network with a five-day free trial to DIRECTV’s MyEntertainment package.

How to watch ‘Chopped Castaways’

• When: Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 9 p.m. ET
• TV: Food Network
• Stream: Watch with a five-day free trial to DIRECTV or with HBO Max.
• From anywhere: Watch with a subscription to a VPN.

Everything you need to know to stream ‘Chopped Castaways’

What time will ‘Chopped Castaways’ air?

Starting on Tuesday, May 12, new episode airs every week at 9 p.m. ET for the next eight weeks.

Why do we recommend DIRECTV for watching ‘Chopped Castaways’?

If you no longer have cable, you may be looking for a way to watch Food Network and other entertainment channels. Our preferred live TV streaming service is DIRECTV’s MyEntertainment package. At $35 per month, it’s a much more affordable alternative to traditional cable. The best part is that you can check out the “Chopped Castaways” premiere at no cost by taking advantage of a free five-day trial.

5-Day Trial

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DIRECTV

DIRECTV is one of The Streamable’s top choices for the best live TV streaming service overall in 2026, especially for users who want the most channels or want to watch the most live sports. With an unbeatable lineup of local, news, sports, and entertainment channels, three main signature packages, an unlimited DVR, and 20 simultaneous streams at home, DIRECTV remains a premier choice for any cord-cutter.

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Following the launch of several genre-specific Genre Packs, there are now even more flexible ways to watch DIRECTV. Options like MySports, MyEntertainment, MyNews, and MiEspañol provide affordable, targeted alternatives to larger bundles, allowing viewers to subscribe to a specific set of channels that match their interests without the cost of a full lineup.

DIRECTV starts at $59.99 / month for its Entertainment package. You can access your local regional sports network with the Choice package, which begins at $64.99 / month, as well as the MySports Pack $44.99 / month. At the top end, they also have an Ultimate ($94.99) for 218 channels. Slimmer Genre Packs for entertainment and news are MyEntertainment for $42.99 / month and MyNews $39.99 / month. There is no contract or broadcast TV fees with this DIRECTV streaming option.

The service was previously called DIRECTV STREAM, preceded by AT&T TV.

How much does DIRECTV cost in 2026?

DIRECTV now offers flexible entry points starting at $19.99/month for the MyKids Genre Pack, while full Signature Packages like Entertainment start at $84.99/month. See the full list: DIRECTV Pricing & Plans

Does DIRECTV have a free trial?

Yes, DIRECTV offers a 5-Day Free Trial for new customers, which includes access to your chosen package and any added Genre Packs.

What are DIRECTV Genre Packs?

Genre Packs are targeted, contract-free plans introduced in 2025. They include MySports ($69.99/mo), MyEntertainment ($34.99/mo), MyNews ($39.99/mo), and MiEspañol ($34.99/mo), often bundling apps like Max, Disney+, or Hulu.

How many channels does DIRECTV have?

The channel count varies by plan: the Entertainment package starts with 90+ channels, while the Premier package offers over 185+ channels. See the full list: DIRECTV Channels.

How many streams are allowed at once on DIRECTV?

DIRECTV allows for unlimited simultaneous streams on your home network and up to 3 streams while on the go. See more details: DIRECTV Simultaneous Streams

Does DIRECTV include local channels?

Yes, local affiliates like ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC are included in all Signature Packages and the MySports Genre Pack in most markets. See the full list: DIRECTV Local Channels.

Does DIRECTV have live sports?

DIRECTV is a leader in sports, offering ESPN, FS1, NFL Network, and MLB Network, plus Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) in the Choice plan and above. See the full list: DIRECTV Sports Channels.

Does DIRECTV offer premium channels?

Yes, you can add Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax. Many 2026 Genre Packs now include these services as part of the base price. See the full list: DIRECTV Premium Channels.

Does DIRECTV offer 4K streaming?

DIRECTV provides dedicated 4K channels (104-106) for live sports and special events at no extra cost, provided you have a compatible 4K device.

Does DIRECTV have a DVR?

Every DIRECTV plan includes Unlimited Cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record and save shows for up to 9 months.

Is there a Regional Sports Network (RSN) fee on DIRECTV?

An RSN fee of up to $15.99/month applies to the Choice package and above, as these plans include local sports coverage. This fee is determined by your zip code and the number of Regional Sports Networks available in your area.

Can I avoid the RSN fee on DIRECTV?

Yes. To avoid the RSN fee, you can subscribe to the Entertainment package or the MySports Genre Pack ($69.99/mo), which bundles sports content without a separate itemized RSN charge. See the breakdown: DIRECTV RSN Fees & Locations.

5-Day Trial

$59.99+ / month

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Start streaming DIRECTV & save up to $30 off your 1st mo. of service! Learn how.

Can you watch ‘Chopped Castaways’ for free?

Thanks to the free trial from DIRECTV, you can stream the series premiere at no cost. The free trial lasts five days, which is one of the longest guaranteed trials in the industry. However, your trial will run out before the next episode airs.

If you would like to test-drive another streaming service, you can find Food Network on Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV. Hulu + Live TV offers a free three-day trial, while YouTube TV’s intro offer is less clear. There are a number of unknown factors that determine how long your trial lasts. It can be anywhere from two days to three weeks.

What streamers carry ‘Chopped Castaways’?

As mentioned, DIRECTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV carry Food Network. You can also stream “Chopped Castaways” on Food Network with other streaming services. One option is Sling TV, which costs $46 per month, but you can get 50% off your first month. Philo is also worth looking into and costs just $33 per month.

Finally, you can watch “Chopped Castaways” on demand with HBO Max, which starts at $11 per month. New episodes drop on Wednesdays.

Watch a trailer for ‘Chopped Castaways’

What you need to know about ‘Chopped Castaways’

“Chopped Castaways” sends 12 elite chefs into a challenging competition with a deserted island theme. It begins with the contestants split up into teams, but by the end of the series, it will be every man for himself. They are tasked with crafting their own kitchens, tracking down ingredients, and more. While the chefs can earn “Chopped” ingredient baskets, they will put themselves to the ultimate test by completing very physical tasks.

Throughout the eight episodes, the chefs must be resourceful. They will cook over open fires, go spearfishing, give archery a try, and so much more. Though they’re masters in the kitchen, do they have what it takes to survive the elements?

Ted Allen hosts, while Gabe Bertaccini, Maneet Chauhan, and Marcus Samuelsson judge. The judges offer feedback and decide who stays and who goes home. There’s a lot on the line with a $100,000 grand prize waiting for the winner.