Imagine cutting into a perfectly golden chicken breast and discovering a creamy, luxurious crab filling that transforms an ordinary meal into a gourmet experience. This Crab Stuffed Chicken Breast is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that combines the delicate sweetness of fresh crab meat with tender, juicy chicken in a dish that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress at a dinner party or simply treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup crab meat
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally into the thickest part of the breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through, leaving the sides intact.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, cream cheese, chopped green onions, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Gently stuff each chicken breast pocket with the crab mixture, being careful not to overfill. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.
- Season the outside of the chicken breasts with additional salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Optional: Garnish with additional chopped green onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve hot with your choice of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use high-quality, fresh crab meat for the most vibrant flavor. Lump crab meat works best for this recipe.
- Perfect Pocket Technique: When creating the pocket in the chicken breast, use a sharp knife and cut slowly. A clean, even pocket ensures even cooking and beautiful presentation.
- Don't Overstuff: Be careful not to overfill the chicken breasts. Too much filling can cause the chicken to cook unevenly or burst open.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. This prevents dry chicken and ensures perfect doneness.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Flavor Boosters: For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of Old Bay seasoning to the crab mixture or brushing the chicken with a light herb butter before baking.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake, making it perfect for entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 145mg
