Try this Chicken Chesapeake recipe with juicy chicken, lump crab, and creamy Old Bay sauce. A Maryland classic perfect for family dinners or holidays.
Chicken Chesapeake Recipe
This Chicken Chesapeake recipe is a true Maryland classic that strikes the perfect balance between comforting and elegant. It combines juicy boneless chicken breasts with sweet lump crab meat and a velvety Old Bay cream sauce, creating a dish that feels restaurant-quality yet simple enough for home cooking.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful Chicken Chesapeake recipe.
| Ingredient | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|
| 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts | About 1.5–2 lbs total; pound for even thickness |
| 8 oz fresh lump crab meat | Best flavor; avoid imitation |
| ½ cup mayonnaise | Base for crab imperial |
| 1 large egg | Helps bind crab mixture |
| 1–2 tsp Old Bay seasoning | Signature Maryland spice |
| 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce | Adds savory depth |
| 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped | Freshness and color |
| 1 squeeze lemon juice | Brightens richness |
| 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese | Optional topping for extra flavor |
| 2 tbsp unsalted butter | For sauce |
| 1 tbsp all-purpose flour | Thickens cream sauce |
| ½–¾ cup milk or cream | Creamy sauce base |
| Optional extras | Dijon mustard, breadcrumbs, gluten-free flour alternatives |
Equipment & Prep Tips
| Tool | Why It’s Helpful |
|---|---|
| Oven-safe skillet or baking dish | Sear then bake chicken without transferring |
| Meat thermometer | Ensures chicken reaches 165°F safely |
| Mixing bowls | For crab imperial mixture |
| Whisk | For lump-free cream sauce |
| Aluminum foil | Tent over chicken if browning too fast |
Prep tips:
- Always check crab meat for shells before mixing.
- Pat chicken dry to help it sear properly.
- Don’t overstuff — if chicken breasts are too small, top with crab instead.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps for the perfect Chicken Chesapeake recipe:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the crab imperial: In a bowl, combine lump crab, mayonnaise, egg, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire, lemon juice, and parsley. Gently fold — don’t break the crab chunks.
- Prep the chicken: Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Old Bay.
- Stuff or top the chicken:
- Stuffed version: Slice a pocket in each breast and fill with crab mixture.
- Topped version: Spoon crab mixture generously on top of each breast.
- Bake: Place chicken in dish. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until internal temperature hits 165°F.
- Add cheese (optional): Sprinkle cheddar over crab topping in the last 5 minutes of baking, then broil briefly for a golden crust.
- Make the sauce: While chicken bakes, melt butter in skillet. Whisk in flour, then slowly add cream and a pinch of Old Bay until smooth and thick.
- Serve: Plate chicken, spoon cream sauce over top, garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.
Old Bay Cream Sauce & Crab Imperial Details
The Old Bay cream sauce adds richness to the dish, but it’s important to cook over medium-low heat to avoid curdling. You can adjust thickness with cream or whisking until it’s just right.
At the same time, remember that the crab imperial is the heart of Chicken Chesapeake, so always use fresh lump or jumbo lump crab for best flavor, and be sure to drain watery crab before mixing to keep the filling rich and well balanced.
Serving Suggestions & Side Dishes
Pairing matters — this indulgent Chicken Chesapeake recipe shines with lighter sides:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic mashed potatoes | Creamy base balances rich crab |
| Roasted asparagus or green beans | Adds crunch and freshness |
| Buttered corn or succotash | Classic Chesapeake pairing |
| Crusty bread | Perfect for soaking up cream sauce |
| Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc | Wine pairing for seafood + chicken combo |
Variations & Substitutions
- Gluten-free: Use GF flour in the sauce, or skip breadcrumbs if using.
- Cheese lovers: Swap cheddar with mozzarella or Swiss for a milder melt.
- Lighter version: Use Greek yogurt in place of mayo in the crab imperial.
- Stuffed vs topped: Stuffing feels elegant but topping is easier and less likely to dry out.
Storage, Reheating & Safety Tips
| Storage Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Store in airtight container up to 2 days |
| Freezer | Not recommended (crab loses texture) |
| Reheating | Warm in oven at 325°F covered with foil, 10–12 minutes |
| Food safety | Chicken must reach 165°F; discard leftovers after 2 days |
FAQ
Q: What kind of crab meat works best?
A: Fresh lump or jumbo lump crab has the sweetest flavor and best texture.
Q: Can I use canned crab or imitation crab?
A: Canned crab can work in a pinch, but it’s less sweet. Avoid imitation crab for this dish.
Q: How do I prevent chicken from drying out?
A: Pound to even thickness, bake just until 165°F, and rest before slicing.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, swap flour with gluten-free alternatives and skip any breading.
Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Up to 2 days in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven, not microwave, to preserve texture.
This Chicken Chesapeake recipe proves that simple ingredients can create something spectacular. With juicy chicken, a decadent crab imperial, and a signature Old Bay cream sauce, it delivers a dish that is both indulgent and comforting. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or anytime you want to bring a taste of Maryland to your table, it’s a recipe that always impresses.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
