Chili Lime Alaska King Crab with Jalapeno-Cilantro Butter

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Plated Alaska King Crab legs served with jalapeño-cilantro butter and lime wedges, served on a rustic dish.

Treat your taste buds to a zesty twist on premium wild-caught Alaska King Crab. This ocean-inspired recipe combines the richness of Alaska king crab legs with a punchy blend of chili, fresh lime, and herb-infused butter. The jalapeño-cilantro butter melts into every bite, making this a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for special occasions or a standout summer dinner. Serve with grilled corn or warm bread to soak up the extra sauce.

Photo and recipe courtesy of Alaska Seafood

  • Prep Time:

    5 minutes

  • Cook Time:

    25 minutes

  • Total Time:

    30 minutes

  • Servings:

    4

  • Ingredients:

    • 6 garlic cloves, crushed
    • 1 small shallot, halved
    • 1 tablespoon chili powder
    • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 lime
    • 4 pounds Alaska King Crab legs, thawed or frozen
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
    • 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
    • 1 minced garlic clove
    • 3 tablespoons minced cilantro
    • 1 tablespoon chili lime seasoning (such as Tajin)
    • Lime wedges

  • Instructions:

    1. Combine 5 cups water, garlic, shallot, chili powder and 1 teaspoon salt into a large Dutch oven or stock pot. Halve lime and squeeze juice into water; add lime halves to water. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cover and simmer 5 minutes.
    2. If using frozen crab, rinse any ice glaze under cold running water. Add crab legs to pot and simmer covered for 7 to 8 minutes for frozen crab or 4 minutes for thawed crab, or until thoroughly heated. Remove crab from liquid and drain well.
    3. Meanwhile, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Add jalapeno and minced garlic. Cook stirring constantly until very fragrant, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    4. Sprinkle crab legs with chili lime seasoning. Serve warm with butter mixture and lime wedges.

If you’re looking for more simple, reliable seafood ideas like this, explore our Approachable Seafood guide—easy wins that make cooking fish feel a whole lot simpler.

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