If you’ve been searching for the perfect chicken of the sea crab cake recipe, you’re in the right place. This easy and flavorful dish captures the essence of American coastal cuisine with crisp, golden crab cakes made from pantry-friendly Chicken of the Sea® crab meat. It’s a nostalgic nod to summer beach days and family dinners—without the need for fresh seafood or fancy ingredients.
Growing up in a coastal Italian-American household, my grandmother always had a way of turning simple ingredients into something magical. While she often cooked with fresh seafood, she wasn’t afraid to use canned crab when convenience called. Today, I carry on that tradition with this delicious summer-ready crab cake recipe that’s just as satisfying as the real deal.
🦀 Why You’ll Love This Chicken of the Sea Crab Cake
- Easy & Quick: Ready in just 25 minutes!
- Light & Flavorful: Perfect for summer with lemon, herbs, and minimal filler.
- Versatile: Great as an appetizer, main dish, or even in sliders.
- Made with Pantry Staples: You likely have most ingredients already.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 cans (6 oz each) Chicken of the Sea® Lump Crab Meat, drained
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or your favorite seafood blend)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon finely diced red bell pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, for frying
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the Crab
Gently drain the Chicken of the Sea® crab meat, and lightly flake with a fork to check for any shell fragments. Be gentle—lump crab can break apart easily.
2. Make the Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayo, egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Old Bay, and chopped parsley. Stir until smooth.
Add the breadcrumbs and gently fold in the crab meat and diced red bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to firm up.
3. Form the Cakes
Scoop out about 1/3 cup of mixture per cake and gently form into 8 patties. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
4. Chill (Optional but Recommended)
Chill the crab cakes in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to help them maintain their shape while cooking.
5. Cook the Crab Cakes
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the crab cakes for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
6. Serve & Enjoy
Serve warm alongside lemon wedges, a crisp green salad, or a dollop of your favorite remoulade sauce.
🍋 Chef’s Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix. Gently fold to avoid breaking down the lump crab.
- Chill before cooking. This helps hold the crab cakes together without relying on excess filler.
- Use fresh lemon. Bottled juice won’t give the same brightness.
- Cook in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan for an even sear.
🌶️ Variations
- Spice it up with a splash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños.
- Gluten-Free: Use GF breadcrumbs or almond meal.
- Mini Crab Cakes: Form smaller cakes for party appetizers.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
🥗 Serving Suggestions
Pair your crab cakes with:
- Arugula and citrus salad with vinaigrette
- Corn on the cob with herb butter
- Sweet potato fries
- Tartar or remoulade sauce
- Chilled white wine or a crisp lager
📊 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 18g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
🏁 Conclusion: Bring the Coast to Your Kitchen
Whether you’re dreaming of a seaside escape or just want a light and flavorful dinner, this chicken of the sea crab cake recipe delivers everything you love about coastal cuisine—without the need for fresh-off-the-dock seafood. With a few pantry staples and a can of Chicken of the Sea crab cake, you can serve up golden, crisp crab cakes that taste like they came from a beachside café.
Perfect for lazy summer nights, family dinners, or impressing guests with minimal effort—this is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. So grab that skillet, pour a glass of chilled wine, and enjoy a bite of summer, no matter where you are.
