Chicken Chesapeake is an appetizing dish that combines two iconic flavors of the Chesapeake Bay region juicy, seasoned funk and delicate, decadent grouser imperial. However, this dish is a must-pass, If you love seafood and flesh. Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or want to elevate your regale menu, this Chicken Chesapeake form is easy to follow and full of rich flavors.
What Is Chicken Chesapeake?
Chicken Chesapeake is a Maryland classic with an impeccably seasoned and seared funk bone outgunned with grouser Homeric, a delicate admixture made with lump grouser meat, mayonnaise, and Old Bay seasoning. The dish is frequently finished with a press beating and ignited to perfection. It’s generally served with fresh vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice, making it a hearty and satisfying mess.
Ingredients for Chicken Chesapeake Recipe
To prepare this delicious Chicken Chesapeake dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Crab Imperial Topping:
- 8 oz lump crab meat
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage as it will finish in the oven.
2. Prepare the Crab Imperial Topping
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the lump crab meat, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley.
- Gently fold the ingredients together, being careful not to break apart the crab meat.
3. Assemble the Best Chicken Chesapeake
- Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Spoon the crab imperial mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and Panko breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
4. Bake the Chicken
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
- Pair it with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side of rice for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Chesapeake
- Use Fresh Lump Grouser Meat The stylish Chicken Chesapeake is made with fresh, high-quality lump grouser meat for the richest flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken Searing the funk before incinerating ensures a juicy texture while developing a beautiful crust.
- Balance the Seasoning Old Bay seasoning is crucial to this dish’s authentic Maryland flavor, but be aware not to overuse it.
- Use a Meat Thermometer to ice your funk reaches 165 °F( 74 °C) without overcooking will keep it juicy and tender.
Variations of Chicken Chesapeake
- Spicy Chicken Chesapeake Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a gusto of hot sauce to the grouser Homeric admixture for redundant heat.
- Cheesy Chesapeake Mix tattered cheddar or Gruyère rubbish into the grouser Homeric beating for a richer, unstylish taste.
- Grilled Chicken Chesapeake rather than baking, caff
the funk guts first and eclipse them with the grouser admixture before finishing in the roaster.
What to Serve with Chicken Chesapeake?
Brace your Chicken Chesapeake form with these succulent sides Garlic Mashed Potatoes Creamy and caloric mashed potatoes round the rich flavors.
- Steamed Asparagus or Green sap A fresh, vibrant vegetable side balances the uproariousness of the dish.
- Coleslaw A pungent slaw adds crunch and discrepancy to the delicate grouser beating.
- Rice Pilaf smoothly seasoned rice soaks up the flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information
While Chicken Chesapeake is indulgent, it also provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients:
- Calories per serving: ~400-500 kcal
- Protein: ~40g
- Fats: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Sodium: Moderate, but can be adjusted by reducing added salt and Old Bay seasoning
FAQs
1: Can Chicken Chesapeake be prepared beforehand?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and crab imperial topping separately, then assemble and bake right before serving.
2: Can imitation crab meat be used?
It could be a possibility, but the texture and taste that is best is from lump crab meat. Imitation crab meat might turn out too soft with that unique Chesapeake taste missing.
3: How do I keep and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers for about 3 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When reheating, place in the oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warm through the middle.
4: Are there any non-dairy options?
Of course! You can use non-dairy mayo as a substitute for mayonnaise, and just leave out the Parmesan cheese. Or, you can use a plant-based option in place of the cheese.
5: Would Chicken Chesapeake work the same with chicken thighs instead?
Definitely! Chicken thighs will add even more juiciness and flavor, but you might need to change the cooking time slightly.
Conclusion
Chicken Chesapeake is a delicious marriage of land and sea: juicy chicken with creamy crab imperial. The recipe has strong flavors and takes the diner through an entire experience, whether for a special celebration or just for a qa quiet family dinner. Try it today, savor, and enjoy a taste of Maryland’s best!
