Warm up your soul with this Chicken Corn Chowder, a hearty blend of savory and sweet that promises to delight your taste buds. Start by sautéing tender chunks of chicken with onions and garlic, their savory juices melding together. Add in golden corn kernels, their sweetness a perfect complement to the savory base. Pour in chicken broth and cream, their richness creating a luxurious texture. Stir in diced potatoes and simmer until tender. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper, then serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of cheese, for a bowl that’s comfort food at its finest.

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Embarking on a culinary voyage through comforting flavors and textures, we find ourselves drawn to a stalwart favorite: Chicken corn chowder recipe. A delightful dance of tender poultry, sweet corn, and velvety creaminess, this humble dish spins a captivating tale in each bowl.

Journey with us as we explore the comforting warmth of this culinary masterpiece and uncover the allure that brings food lovers back time and time again. We’ll unravel the secrets of its enduring appeal, from the inviting aroma that wafts from the pot to the captivating allure of its golden hue.

As we navigate the essential ingredients, clever twists, and potential pairings, prepare for an enriching experience that evokes fond memories and inspires new traditions. All aboard the chowder express, it’s time to dive into the heart of this hearty soup.

What Is Chicken Corn Chowder?

Chicken Corn Chowder is a thick, hearty soup traditionally associated with -comfort food cuisine. It combines chunks of chicken and sweet kernels of corn with a creamy, savory base often made from a blend of milk, cream, flour, and butter.

Flavorful additions like onions, celery, and bell peppers provide depth, while herbs and spices offer a hint of complexity. This dish is renowned for its richness and comforting warmth, serving as a satisfying meal in its own right or as a filling accompaniment to main dishes.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Chicken Corn Chowder can be easily adapted to various dietary preferences.

Keto: To make this chowder keto-friendly, you’ll need to cut down on the corn and replace it with lower-carb vegetables like cauliflower. Also, ensure that the milk or cream used is full-fat.
Paleo: A paleo version can be made by replacing regular milk with coconut milk and using a grain-free thickener, like arrowroot or tapioca starch.
Gluten-Free: Make sure your thickening agent is gluten-free. Cornstarch, arrowroot powder, or even a bit of xanthan gum could work. Also, ensure your broth or stock is gluten-free.
Whole30: For Whole30, use coconut milk instead of regular milk or cream, and thicken with a compliant option like arrowroot powder or by pureeing part of the soup.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like potatoes, extra corn, or even chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For creaminess, use coconut milk or a dairy-free milk alternative. Vegan butter or olive oil can be used in place of regular butter.

Recipe Directions

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned.
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken stock and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheese, corn kernels, diced green chiles, and hot sauce (if desired). Continue stirring on low heat until the cheese is completely melted.
Finally, add the diced tomato and stir gently to incorporate.
Serve the French Lentil Soup hot, topped with fresh cilantro and tortilla strips for added texture and flavor.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

Southwestern Style: Add some black beans, green chilies, and top with avocado and a squeeze of lime for a Southwestern twist.
Seafood Chowder: Swap the chicken for shrimp or crab for a delicious seafood variation.
Vegetable-Loaded: Add in other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Add-Ons

Protein: If you want more protein, consider adding cooked bacon, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Heat: If you like your soup spicy, consider adding a diced jalapeno, a dash of cayenne pepper, or extra hot sauce.
Cheese: Different types of cheese, like cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda, can add depth of flavor.

Toppings

Herbs: Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or green onions add color and a fresh flavor contrast.
Crunch: Crispy bacon bits, toasted bread croutons, or even a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds can give a pleasant crunch.
Dairy: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add a tangy creaminess that complements the rich chowder.

Can I Make Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Chicken Corn Chowder can easily be adapted for preparation in both a slow cooker or an Instant Pot.

Slow Cooker Method

Place all ingredients except for the cream, cheese, and garnishes into the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken and shred it. Please return it to the slow cooker.
Add the cream and cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the chowder is heated through.
Serve with your chosen garnishes.

Instant Pot Method

Using the sauté function, melt butter and brown the chicken in the Instant Pot.
Add the onions and garlic, cooking for a few more minutes until softened.
Add the remaining ingredients (except the cream, cheese, and garnishes), ensuring not to fill past the maximum fill line.
Close the lid, set the valve to “sealing,” and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Quick-release the pressure after the cooking time is finished. Open the lid, remove the chicken to shred it, then return it to the pot.
Turn the sauté function back on, add the cream and cheese, and stir until the cheese is melted and the chowder is heated through.
Serve with your chosen garnishes.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Both store-bought broth and homemade broth can be used to make Chicken Corn Chowder, and each has its advantages.

Store-Bought Broth

Store-bought broth is a convenient option that can save a lot of time and effort. It’s ready to use, and many brands offer a variety of options like low-sodium, organic, or free-range. However, the flavor and quality can vary between brands. When buying, look for natural ingredients and no artificial preservatives..

Homemade Broth

Making your own chicken broth allows for more control over the ingredients, taste, and consistency. Homemade broth can have a deeper, more robust flavor than most store-bought options, and it’s a great way to use leftover chicken bones. However, it’s time-consuming, and you’ll need to plan in advance.

How To Serve?

Serving Chicken Corn Chowder can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Here are a few suggestions to make your chowder presentation something special:

The Right Bowl: Serve your chowder in a wide, shallow soup bowl. This allows the beautiful ingredients to be showcased. Warm the bowls slightly in the oven before serving to keep the soup hot for longer.
Garnish: Add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, some freshly chopped cilantro, or some crumbled bacon on top for added flavor and presentation. Remember those crispy tortilla strips!
Side Dishes: Chowder pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread for dipping. You could also serve it with a fresh salad to lighten up the meal.
Serve With a Ladle: If you’re serving a family or a larger group, you should serve the chowder in a large pot or tureen with a ladle. This allows everyone to serve themselves as much as they want.
Wine Pairing: If you’re pairing with wine, a light white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or an unoaked Chardonnay can complement the creaminess of the chowder.
Individual Portions: For a party or event, consider serving the chowder in individual ramekins or mugs for a fun, personal touch.

Perfect Side Dishes

Crusty Bread or Rolls: These are perfect for dipping into the chowder and soaking up its rich flavors. You could also serve garlic bread for a more flavorful twist.
Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy chowder. You might include ingredients like lettuce, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing with soup, a grilled cheese sandwich can make the meal more filling and add a delightful crispy texture.
Roasted Vegetables: Simple oven-roasted veggies like carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts would complement the chowder’s rich taste.
Cornbread: Given the corn in the chowder, a side of warm, sweet cornbread can be a lovely match.
Apple Slaw: A tangy apple slaw can provide a crunchy and sweet contrast to the creamy, savory chowder.
Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: These greens can balance out the meal and add a nice pop of color to your plate.
Quinoa or Brown Rice Salad: A light, healthy grain salad can be a great side dish, mainly if it includes plenty of fresh herbs and a zingy dressing.

Storage And Make Ahead

Store leftovers: Cool chowder completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Make Ahead: Prepare chowder up to 2 days in advance. Cool completely, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to thin consistency.
To freeze: Portion cooled chowder into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Chowder-stuffed bread bowls: Hollow out a crusty bread loaf and fill it with reheated chicken corn chowder for a delicious bread bowl meal.
Chowder omelet: Use the chowder as a filling for a savory omelet by folding it into beaten eggs and cooking until set.
Chowder dip: Heat up the chowder and use it as a flavorful dip for tortilla chips, breadsticks, or vegetable crudités.
Chowder-stuffed potatoes: Slice open baked potatoes and stuff them with reheated chowder, then top with cheese and bake until melted and bubbly.
Chowder quesadillas: Spread the chowder between tortillas with shredded cheese and cook until crispy and golden for a tasty quesadilla.
Chowder soup bread bowls: Hollow out individual bread rolls, fill them with reheated chowder, and serve as cozy soup bowls.
Chowder fritters: Mix the chowder with flour and an egg, then fry spoonfuls until golden brown for savory fritters.

TIPS

Quality Ingredients: Use fresh corn and chicken for the best flavor.
Pre-cook Chicken: Sauté or grill chicken before adding to the chowder for added depth.
Homemade Stock: Make your own chicken stock for richer taste.
Creamy Texture: Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier consistency.
Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a burst of freshness
Layer Flavors: Build layers of flavor by sautéing aromatics like onions, garlic, and shallots before adding the squash and broth. This step enhances the depth of the soup’s flavor profile.
Garnish Wisely: Top with crispy bacon or green onions for added crunch and color.
Simmer Slowly: Allow the flavors to meld by simmering the chowder gently.

20-Minutes Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe - A Classic Dish

5 from 6 votes

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Chowder Recipe

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

230

kcal

Chicken Corn Chowder is a creamy, hearty soup brimming with tender chicken, sweet corn, and a touch of spice. Its vibrant flavors and comforting texture make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together.

Ingredients

3 tbsp 3 Butter
1 lb 1 Boneless Chicken Thighs
½ cup ½ Onion, Chopped
2 2 Garlic Cloves, Minced
1 cup 1 Hot Chicken Stock
1 tbsp 1 Ground Cumin
2 cups 2 Cream
1 can 1 Creamed Corn
4 oz 4 Chopped Green Chiles, Undrained
½ tbsp ½ Hot Sauce
1 medium 1 Tomato, Chopped
Chopped Cilantro (As Desired)
Tortilla Strips (As Desired)

Step-By-Step Directions

Preparation Steps
Gather all the ingredients: chicken, butter, onion, garlic, chicken stock, cream, cheese, corn, chiles, hot sauce, and tomato. Have cilantro and tortilla strips ready for garnishing.
Cooking
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chicken pieces, stirring occasionally, until they are well browned.
Add the diced onion to the pot with the chicken, stirring it in and letting it cook for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent and softened.
Add the minced garlic to the pot, stirring it into the onion and chicken. Let this cook for an additional minute, releasing the garlic's aroma.
Blending
Pour the chicken stock into the pot, stirring it well to combine with the chicken, onion, and garlic. Bring this mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to meld together.
Stir in the cream, cheese, corn, chiles, and hot sauce. Continue to stir this over low heat until all the cheese has melted, ensuring the ingredients blend well together.
Final Touches And Serving
Add the diced tomato to the pot, stirring it into the chowder.
Ladle the Chicken Corn Chowder into serving bowls. Top each bowl with fresh cilantro and crispy tortilla strips, adding a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the rich, creamy chowder.
Additional Options
You can adjust the hot sauce to taste, depending on your preferred level of spice. For extra protein, consider adding beans or swapping the chicken with turkey. Vegan cheese and plant-based cream can be used for a dairy-free version. Enjoy this comforting chowder as is, or pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
EQUIPMENT LIST
Large Pot
Cutting Board and Knife
Wooden Spoon or Ladle
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Soup Ladle
Blender or Immersion Blender (optional)
Soup Bowls and Soup Spoons

Notes

Fresh ingredients make all the difference in this chowder. Opt for fresh corn when in season.
Don't rush the cooking process. Allowing the chowder to simmer brings out the best flavors.
Feel free to adjust the heat. Add more or less hot sauce, depending on your spice preference.
Serve hot, garnished with cilantro and tortilla strips for a satisfying crunch.
This soup freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep. Just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
You can easily adapt this recipe to meet dietary restrictions. Use low-fat cream for a lighter version or plant-based substitutes for a vegetarian variant.
Enjoy Chicken Corn Chowder with a side of crusty bread or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Table

Author
Recent Posts

Hanna Barnes

Hanna is a writer at Soup Chick. Yulia's website reignited her passion for crafting affordable, veggie-packed soups. She is certified by the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and has expertise in healthy, baking, and vegan cuisine. With years of food blogging and collaborating with chefs, she offers a range of recipes on Soup Chick, from classic broths to the heavenly slow cooker chicken tortilla soup. Join her in creating flavorsome, wholesome soups in your kitchen!

Delectable Chicken Corn Chowder With Unique Blend Of Herbs