By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on July 14, 2023 | Last Updated on November 15, 2023
Chicken Chesapeake sandwich is a classic East Coast comfort food. It’s made with juicy, marinated chicken breasts, creamy crab spread, and melted Finlandia Cheddar Gruyere cheese on a toasted bun.
The combination of flavors in this sandwich will make your taste buds sing!
In this article, we will go over what the chicken chesapeake sandwich is, how to make it, and what to serve it with. We’ll also cover some tips on storing any leftovers and answer some FAQs about this delicious dish. So let’s get started!
What is a chicken Chesapeake sandwich?
It is a sandwich made with grilled chicken breast, cheese and mayonnaise. Combining these ingredients gives the sandwich a unique flavor that many enjoy.
The sandwich can be served on a variety of different breads such as ciabatta, focaccia, or sourdough. You can also serve it with lettuce and tomatoes to add a bit of crunch and freshness.
The sandwich is usually served with fries or coleslaw for a more substantial meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or something to satisfy your hunger, the chicken Chesapeake sandwich will surely hit the spot!
What does it taste like?
The chicken Chesapeake sandwich is so delicious! The combination of the marinated chicken, creamy crab spread and melted cheese all on a toasty bun make for an unforgettable sandwich experience.
It’s savory and creamy with just the right amount of sweetness from the Old Bay seasoning.
How did I first get introduced to the chicken Chesapeake sandwich?
I was first introduced to the chicken Chesapeake sandwich at a local seafood restaurant in my hometown. It was love at first bite, and I knew right away that I had to recreate it at home.
How to make a chicken Chesapeake sandwich?
Making a chicken Chesapeake sandwich is actually relatively easy. All you need to do is marinate the chicken, make the crab spread and assemble your sandwiches. Here are the ingredients and step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious dish.
Ingredients
FOR THE CHICKEN
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/ 4 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
FOR THE CRAB SPREAD
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 pound lump crab meat
A squeeze of lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
FOR THE SANDWICH
4 slices Finlandia Cheddar Gruyere Cheese
Sliced tomato for serving
Lettuce, for serving
4 buns, toasted if desired, for serving
Step by step instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, Old Bay seasoning, vegetable oil and Dijon mustard. Mix until combined.
Add the chicken to the mixture and coat evenly with the marinade. Set aside 10-15 minutes while preparing the crab spread.
Step 2
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice and Old Bay seasoning. Add the crab meat to the mixture and mix until combined.
Step 3:
In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with some crab spread. Mix until creamy and well incorporated. Set aside for later use.
Step 4:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Once cooked, remove from the heat and set aside to rest.
Step 5:
To assemble the sandwiches, spread some of the crabs spread onto one half of a toasted bun. Place a slice of Finlandia Cheddar Gruyere Cheese on top and then add the cooked chicken breast and sliced tomato.
Top the sandwich with some lettuce, spread more crab spread and place the other half of the bun on top. Serve immediately.
Tips
• Use high-quality lump crab meat for the best flavor.
• For a creamy and cheesy twist, spread some additional cream cheese over the chicken before topping it with the lettuce and bun.
• Toast the buns if desired for a crispier texture.
• Serve with your favorite sides such as fries, chips, or coleslaw.
Chicken Chesapeake Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard offering a bold and tangy taste, adding depth and a hint of spiciness to the chicken.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness, ensuring tender and juicy chicken, perfect for grilling or searing.
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar bringing a tangy and mildly sweet flavor, adding brightness and acidity to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning imparting a savory and aromatic blend of herbs and spices, infusing the chicken with a distinct and zesty flavor.
- 1/8 tablespoons of vegetable oil providing a light and smooth base, ensuring the chicken doesn’t stick and promoting a golden sear.
For the Crab Spread:
- 1/4 pound of lump crab meat providing a delicate and sweet flavor, adding a luxurious and indulgent element to the sandwich.
- A squeeze of lemon juice bringing a bright and tangy taste, balancing the flavors and adding a refreshing note to the spread.
- 3/4 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning offering a robust and flavorful blend of spices, adding depth and a touch of heat to the crab spread.
- 1/8 tablespoons of mayonnaise creating a creamy and velvety texture, adding richness and acting as a binding agent for the crab spread.
- 1/8 tablespoons of cream cheese softened, providing a smooth and luscious consistency, adding a hint of tanginess and creaminess to the spread.
For the Sandwich:
- 2 buns toasted if desired, for serving, providing a warm and slightly crispy base, enhancing the overall texture and taste of the sandwich.
- Lettuce for serving, providing a crisp and refreshing texture, adding a vibrant and crunchy element to the sandwich.
- Tomato sliced, for serving, bringing a juicy and slightly tangy taste, adding freshness and a burst of flavor to the sandwich.
- 2 slices of Finlandia Cheddar Gruyere Cheese offering a rich and nutty taste, melting to create a gooey and flavorful layer on the sandwich.
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, Old Bay seasoning, vegetable oil and Dijon mustard. Mix until combined. Add the chicken to the mixture and coat evenly with the marinade. Set aside 10-15 minutes while preparing the crab spread.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice and Old Bay seasoning. Add the crab meat to the mixture and mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with some crab spread. Mix until creamy and well incorporated. Set aside for later use.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Once cooked, remove from the heat and set aside to rest.
- To assemble the sandwiches, spread some of the crabs spread onto one half of a toasted bun. Place a slice of Finlandia Cheddar Gruyere Cheese on top and then add the cooked chicken breast and sliced tomato. Top the sandwich with some lettuce, spread more crab spread and place the other half of the bun on top. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition Information
Serving size: 4 sandwich
Calories: 530 (Per sandwich)
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 40g
What to serve with a chicken Chesapeake sandwich?
The chicken Chesapeake sandwich is delicious and served with a side of fries, chips, coleslaw, or even a simple green salad. It also goes great with a cold beer or glass of white wine.
How to store leftover chicken Chesapeake sandwiches?
You can store leftover chicken Chesapeake sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can safely enjoy chicken Chesapeake sandwiches as long as the ingredients are cooked properly and all other food safety guidelines are followed.
FAQs
What is the best way to cook chicken for a Chesapeake sandwich?
The best way to cook chicken for a Chesapeake sandwich is to pan-fry it in a skillet over medium-high heat. This will allow the chicken to cook evenly and retain its moisture.
Can I use canned crab meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned crab meat in place of fresh lump crab meat. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before adding it to the mixture.
Does this sandwich have any added sugar?
No, this sandwich does not contain added sugar.
Wrapping Up
The chicken Chesapeake sandwich is a delicious and easy meal that can be prepared in just a few minutes. It is packed with flavor and is a great way to enjoy fresh crab meat.
You can serve this sandwich as is or customize it with your favorite toppings, such as tomato and lettuce. You can also add some cream cheese for an extra creamy twist.
Thank you for reading! Please share your thoughts in the comment section below. Also, share this with your friends and family to tell them about this fantastic dish.
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
