Eight high school finalist teams competed in the annual North Carolina Jr. Chef cook-off this month to create unique school lunch entreé recipes. The “Waffle House” team from Apex High with Wake County Public Schools won first place in the 2023 North Carolina Jr. Chef Competition. The Apex High team worked to create a healthier version of fried chicken and waffles, a student favorite. They made sweet and savory waffles from scratch incorporating sweetpotatoes and chives. Baked maple-barbeque glazed chicken and a fresh slaw with cabbage, apples, and carrots accompanied the waffles.
The Apex High team worked to create a healthier version of fried chicken and waffles, a student favorite. They made sweet and savory waffles from scratch incorporating sweet potatoes and chives. Baked maple-barbecue glazed chicken and a fresh slaw with cabbage, apples, and carrots accompanied the waffles. The recipe feature North Carolina-grown sweet potatoes, cabbage, apples, chicken, and milk.
The “NHS” Culinary team from Northern High with Durham Public Schools won second place and a silver medal for their Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken on Sweet Potato Steamed Buns, with Kale and Apple Salad. The “Ridgerunners” team from Swain County High won third place and a silver medal for their Blueberry Chicken Salad Wrap.