| Cover Page | Apr. 23, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 23, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORPORATION |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000895126 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | OK |
| Entity File Number | 1-13726 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 73-1395733 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 6100 North Western Avenue |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Oklahoma City |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OK |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 73118 |
| City Area Code | (405) |
| Local Phone Number | 848-8000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | CHK |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 |
