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Crab-Topped Chicken Chesapeake

This refined Chicken Chesapeake elevates a Mid-Atlantic classic with a perfectly balanced blend of flavors. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with a luxurious crab mixture, featuring a harmonious combination of Old Bay seasoning, aromatic garlic and onion, and a subtle smokiness from smoked paprika. Fresh herbs add brightness to the rich, creamy topping, while a touch of Worcestershire sauce deepens the overall flavor profile. The result is a sophisticated yet comforting dish that captures the essence of Chesapeake Bay cuisine with every bite.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Mid-Atlantic
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Whisk
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Meat tenderizer or rolling pin (optional)
  • Instant-read thermometer (optional)
  • Aluminum foil

Ingredients
  

Protein

  • 4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each / 170-225g each)
  • 8 oz Lump crab meat picked over for shells and well-drained [225g]

Dairy

  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream [120ml]
  • 4 oz Cream cheese softened [115g]
  • 1/2 cup Shredded cheddar cheese [50g]
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese [25g]
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted butter divided [30g]

Produce

  • 2 Green onions finely chopped
  • 1 Lemon juiced and zested
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp Fresh dill finely chopped (optional)

Pantry Staples

  • 2 tbsp Olive oil [30ml]
  • 1 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp Smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • If chicken breasts are very thick, pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) using a meat tenderizer or rolling pin.
  • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1/2 tsp of Old Bay seasoning.

Cook the Chicken

  • Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Prepare the Crab Topping

  • In a mixing bowl, whip the cream cheese using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
  • Gradually add heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
  • Fold in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, lemon juice, lemon zest, remaining Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
  • Gently fold in the well-drained lump crab meat, fresh parsley, and dill (if using).

Top and Finish

  • Remove the skillet from the oven and top each chicken breast with an equal amount of the crab mixture.
  • Dot the top with the remaining 1 tbsp of butter, cut into small pieces.
  • Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the topping is hot and bubbly, and starting to brown.

Serve

  • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with additional chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

- Ensure the crab meat is very well-drained to prevent a watery topping. You can pat it dry with paper towels if necessary.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
- To make ahead, prepare the crab topping up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before using.
- Serve with steamed asparagus or a light salad to balance the rich flavors.
- For an extra touch of luxury, consider adding a small amount of dry white wine to the crab mixture.
Keyword Chesapeake Bay, Creamy Dinner, Gourmet Crab Topping, Seafood Chicken