We’ve always been captivated by the Chesapeake Bay’s vibrant seafood scene, and our Chicken Chesapeake recipe brings that coastal charm straight to your kitchen. This Maryland-inspired dish fuses tender chicken with creamy crab imperial for a flavor-packed twist that’s as irresistible as it is simple.
Ingredients
In our Chicken Chesapeake recipe, we combine tender chicken with creamy crab imperial to deliver the authentic flavors of Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay. Below, we’ve organized the ingredients in the order they’re used, with precise measurements and prep notes for easy preparation.
Main Proteins
- Chicken breasts: 4 boneless, skinless breasts (about 6 ounces each) – We’ll start by pounding these to ½-inch thickness for even stuffing and cooking.
- Lump crab meat: 1 pound fresh or pasteurized – Ensure it’s drained and picked over for shells to maintain that sweet, delicate seafood essence.
Binding and Flavor Base
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup – This creates a creamy binder for our crab imperial mixture, adding rich smoothness.
- Old Bay seasoning: 2 tablespoons – A must-have for that signature Chesapeake spice; we’ll mix it in for bold, aromatic depth.
- Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon – Provides a tangy kick to balance the crab’s sweetness.
- Fresh lemon juice: From 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons) – Squeeze this in for a bright, citrusy note that enhances the seafood’s freshness.
Mix-Ins and Toppings
- Panko breadcrumbs: ½ cup – We’ll use these for a crispy topping; toast them lightly for extra crunch.
- Finely chopped onion: ¼ cup – Dice this for sautéing as the first step in building flavors.
- Minced garlic: 2 cloves – Add this after the onion for a fragrant, savory base.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup – Sprinkle on top for a nutty, golden finish during baking.
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons – Melt this for brushing or sautéing to add rich, golden browning.
Additional Essentials
- Salt and black pepper: To taste – We’ll season throughout to enhance the overall harmony of flavors.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons – Use this for searing the chicken to achieve a perfect, caramelized exterior.
For optimal results, we recommend sourcing high-quality, fresh ingredients, especially the crab meat, to capture the vibrant tastes of the Chesapeake region. If you’re scaling the recipe, note that this serves 4 people with potential leftovers for reheating.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Chicken Chesapeake recipe to life, we need the right tools for efficient preparation and cooking. Below, we’ve outlined the essential equipment, organized by category for ease of use. This ensures we handle the tender chicken and creamy crab imperial with precision, maintaining the authentic flavors of Maryland cuisine.
Basic Kitchen Tools
- Mixing bowls: Two medium-sized bowls for combining ingredients like crab meat, mayonnaise, and seasonings—opt for ones with lids for easy storage.
- Measuring cups and spoons: A set for accurately measuring ingredients such as lemon juice and Old Bay seasoning, which are crucial for balanced flavors.
Cutting and Prep Essentials
- Chef’s knife: A sharp 8-inch knife for trimming chicken breasts and chopping onion or garlic, ensuring clean cuts that enhance presentation.
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip board to safely prepare proteins and vegetables, reducing any risk during the process.
Cooking and Baking Gear
- Baking dish or sheet: A 9×13-inch oven-safe dish for baking the chicken topped with crab imperial—choose one with high sides to contain juices and prevent spills.
- Oven: A standard oven preheated to 375°F for even cooking, allowing the dish to achieve that golden, flavorful crust.
Additional Utensils
- Spatula or spoon: A heat-resistant silicone spatula for mixing and serving, perfect for gently folding in panko breadcrumbs without breaking them down.
- Grater: A box grater for finely grating Parmesan cheese and garlic, which adds a fresh, aromatic element to our dish.
With these tools at hand, we’re set to transition smoothly from gathering ingredients to executing the steps for our Chicken Chesapeake masterpiece.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through preparing our flavorful Chicken Chesapeake step by step to create a tender, crab-topped delight inspired by Maryland cuisine.
Prep
Before we begin cooking, let’s prepare our ingredients to ensure everything comes together smoothly for the Chicken Chesapeake. Start by preheating the oven to 375°F as mentioned in our equipment section. First, take the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy exterior. Season each breast generously with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, rubbing it in evenly for enhanced flavor.
Next, prepare the crab imperial mixture, the star of our Chicken Chesapeake. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of lump crab meat with ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, ¼ cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Gently fold these ingredients together with a spatula to keep the crab lumps intact, creating a creamy yet chunky topping that promises a burst of seafood essence with every bite.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, it’s time to cook the Chicken Chesapeake to golden perfection, locking in the rich flavors of the crab and chicken. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are spaced evenly for even cooking. Top each breast with a generous portion of the crab mixture, spreading it to cover the surface fully—this layer will form a delectable, golden crust as it bakes.
Slide the baking dish into the preheated 375°F oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer. Halfway through, baste the tops with 2 tablespoons of melted butter to add a glossy sheen and extra moisture, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of herbs and seafood that evokes the Chesapeake Bay.
Assemble
Finally, let’s assemble our Chicken Chesapeake to present a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty, combining the baked elements for a complete meal. Once the chicken is out of the oven and has rested for 5 minutes, drizzle each piece with an additional squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. If desired, sprinkle another 2 tablespoons of panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon of Parmesan over the tops and broil for 2-3 minutes to create a crunchy, golden finish.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (for 4 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein (g) | 35 |
| Fat (g) | 25 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 15 |
Make-Ahead Instructions
As we dive deeper into our Chicken Chesapeake recipe, preparing components in advance can save time while preserving the dish’s fresh, flavorful essence. We recommend these steps to streamline your cooking process without compromising on the tender chicken and creamy crab imperial.
Preparing the Crab Imperial Mixture Ahead
To get a head start, we suggest making the crab imperial mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Begin by combining 1 pound of lump crab meat with 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Stir gently to avoid breaking up the crab lumps, then cover the mixture tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it promptly to maintain its authentic Chesapeake Bay flavors.
Seasoning and Prepping the Chicken
For the chicken breasts, we advise seasoning them ahead of time. Take your 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pat them dry, and rub each with a mixture of 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Place them in a single layer in a baking dish or on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. This allows the seasonings to infuse the meat, enhancing its juicy texture when you bake.
Assembling the Dish in Advance
If you’re planning a full assembly, we recommend preparing the topped chicken up to 4 hours ahead. After seasoning the chicken, spoon the prepared crab imperial mixture evenly over each breast. Cover the baking dish securely with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to cook, simply preheat your oven to 375°F and proceed with baking as outlined in the main instructions. This method ensures the crab imperial stays moist and flavorful.
Storage and Reheating Tips
For longer make-ahead options, store any prepared components in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Here’s a quick overview in table form for optimal storage:
| Component | Refrigeration Time | Freezing Time | Thawing/Reheating Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crab Imperial Mixture | Up to 24 hours | Up to 1 month | Thaw overnight in fridge; reheat gently in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes |
| Seasoned Chicken Breasts | Up to 8 hours | Not recommended | N/A – cook directly from fridge |
| Assembled Dish | Up to 4 hours | Up to 1 month | Thaw in fridge; bake as per recipe, adding 5-10 minutes to cooking time |
By following these strategies, we ensure your Chicken Chesapeake remains a showstopping Maryland-inspired meal that’s both convenient and delicious.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Chicken Chesapeake recipe to bring Maryland’s vibrant flavors right to your table. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that combines the best of land and sea for a truly satisfying meal.
As we’ve explored, it’s perfect for weeknights or gatherings, offering flexibility without losing that fresh, authentic taste.
Give it a try and make it your go-to for effortless, impressive dinners—we’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Chesapeake?
Chicken Chesapeake is a flavorful dish inspired by Maryland’s seafood culture, featuring tender chicken breasts topped with creamy crab imperial. It combines high-quality ingredients like lump crab meat and Old Bay seasoning for an authentic taste, making it an easy-to-make meal that serves 4 people.
What ingredients are needed for Chicken Chesapeake?
You’ll need 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 pound of lump crab meat, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Parmesan cheese, butter, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Focus on high-quality crab for the best flavor, as these create a rich, creamy topping.
How do I prepare Chicken Chesapeake?
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts and mixing the crab imperial. Bake the chicken at 375°F topped with the crab mixture until golden and cooked through, about 25-30 minutes. Baste for moisture and add breadcrumbs for crunch. Garnish with lemon juice before serving for a fresh finish.
What equipment is required for this recipe?
Essential equipment includes mixing bowls, measuring cups, a chef’s knife, cutting board, baking dish, and an oven preheated to 375°F. A heat-resistant spatula and box grater are also useful for efficient prep and cooking.
How many people does this recipe serve, and what are the nutritional facts?
This recipe serves 4 people, with potential leftovers. Each serving has about 450 calories, 35g protein, 25g fat, and 15g carbohydrates, making it a balanced meal option.
Can I make Chicken Chesapeake ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the crab imperial mixture up to 24 hours in advance and season the chicken ahead for better flavor. Assemble the dish beforehand for easy baking, but avoid topping until ready to cook to maintain texture.
How should I store and reheat Chicken Chesapeake leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, adding a splash of water to keep it moist and flavorful.