The London club continued their impressive revival under interim coach Roberto di Matteo with victory over Benfica in midweek to set up a two-legged meeting with European champions Barcelona in the last four.
But before the Blues meet the Catalans, they face Wigan and Fulham over the course of 48 hours in the Premier League before the FA Cup semi-final with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
The cup clashes may carry extra glamour, but league points are crucial if Chelsea are to close the five-point gap on fourth-placed Spurs and ensure qualification for next season's Champions League.
They now face a Wigan side still fighting for top-flight survival despite showing impressive resilience to beat Stoke last weekend.
Chelsea's cause will not be helped by the absence of club captain John Terry who was forced out of the Benfica clash 30 minutes into Wednesday's match.
England central defender Terry, who has two broken ribs, said: "I will have a scan and we will see where we go from there. It's just horrible.
"You just have to let it heal. I thought it was OK but, later in the second half, it just seemed to be getting worse. It was difficult. I have never felt anything like that before."
The prospect of Chelsea being in such a strong position was hard to imagine when Andre Villas-Boas was sacked and di Matteo installed on a temporary basis.
Former Chelsea midfielder di Matteo has impressed during his spell in charge but has so far resisted any temptation to talk up his hopes of landing the job on a permanent basis.
And while the side's recent progress has satisfied the club's hierarchy after a disappointing campaign, chief executive Ron Gourlay said credit for the improved results should be shared around.
"Everyone has pulled their weight," he said. "We sat down and analysed the whole situation and I think we have seen the results."
"We have a big squad, 24 players. Robbie has been rotating the players very well and that will continue over the next couple of months."
Gary Cahill will step in for Terry this weekend although the fans' favourite is expected to be fit for the FA Cup meeting with Tottenham.
Wigan arrive at Stamford Bridge in their best form of the season.
Roberto Martinez's side may have spent the last three months in the relegation zone but they have given themselves a fighting chance of staying up after moving level on points with 17th-placed Queens Park Rangers.
It follows a four-match unbeaten run which includes back-to-back victories over Liverpool and Stoke.
"The 2-1 win at Anfield last month has given us belief we can go anywhere and be ourselves," said Martinez, whose side face leaders Manchester United on Wednesday before travelling to Arsenal on April 16.
"We're really confident we will be playing in the Premier League next season.
"It's going to go down to the wire but it's an exciting challenge for us."
Colombian striker Hugo Rodallega is again missing with a knee injury but midfielder Mohamed Diame, who has missed the last two games with a groin problem, is available.
Source: AFP
Source: AFP