Chicken Corn Chowder is a delightful dish that warms the soul, perfect for those chilly evenings. This creamy, hearty chowder combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and smoky bacon, creating a comforting bowl of goodness. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, this chowder is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it’s a meal that brings everyone together. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting classic!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Corn Chowder

This Chicken Corn Chowder recipe is a go-to for many reasons! First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. You’ll love how versatile it is; you can easily adjust ingredients to fit your taste. With the addition of chicken corn soup and corn chicken chowder, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Not to mention, it uses simple ingredients that are often already in your pantry. Plus, the creamy base and smoky bacon elevate it to a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. It’s not just a meal but an experience that brings warmth and joy to your table!

Chicken Corn Chowder: 7 Comforting Secrets for the Best Bowl - Chicken Corn Chowder - main visual representation

Ingredients for Chicken Corn Chowder

Gather these items:

6 strips uncooked bacon cut into pieces
3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium yellow onion diced (about 1 cup)
1 red pepper diced (about 1 cup)
1 Tablespoon diced jalapeno seeds and ribs removed
1 ½ Tablespoons minced garlic
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon table salt plus more as needed/to taste
¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
¾ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dry ground mustard
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup water or use another cup of chicken broth
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 lb Gold potatoes diced into 1” cubes
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or mix of breast and thighs raw
2 ½ cups sweet corn fresh, frozen, or canned
Desired toppings such as corn chips, Fritos, crackers, scallions, additional jalapeno, cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make Chicken Corn Chowder Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook the bacon pieces in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the crispy bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Step 2: Add the butter to the bacon fat and melt completely. Stir in the diced onion, red pepper, and jalapeño, cooking until vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and stir constantly for 2 minutes to create a roux. Add the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly with the seasonings.
Step 4: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and water (or additional broth), whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until smooth.
Step 5: Add the diced potatoes and whole chicken breasts/thighs to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender and chicken reaches 165°F internally.
Step 6: Remove the chicken pieces to a cutting board and shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot and add the sweet corn and most of the reserved bacon, stirring to combine. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until corn is heated through.
Step 7: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The chowder should have a rich, velvety consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Step 8: Ladle into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes: remaining bacon pieces, corn chips, scallions, fresh jalapeño, cilantro, or shredded cheese. Serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Corn Chowder

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially when it comes to vegetables and spices.
If you want a thicker chowder, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
This chowder can be made in a slow cooker for an easy dinner solution. Just follow the same steps but place everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Corn Chowder

There are many delightful ways to enjoy Chicken Corn Chowder. Serve it with crusty bread or corn muffins for a fulfilling meal. You can also pair it with a light salad for a balanced dinner. For a twist, try adding some shredded cheese or sour cream on top for extra creaminess. This chowder is also perfect for fall gatherings, warming everyone up on chilly days!

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Corn Chowder

Leftover Chicken Corn Chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency. This makes it excellent for meal prep as you can enjoy it throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Corn Chowder

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Corn Chowder?

The key to a perfect Chicken Corn Chowder is to create a flavorful base by cooking the vegetables in the bacon fat. This adds depth to the chowder, while the balance of creamy and hearty textures makes it irresistible!

Can I make Chicken Corn Chowder ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make Chicken Corn Chowder ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve, making it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Corn Chowder?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your roux is cooked thoroughly before adding liquid, and always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. This helps achieve the rich flavor characteristic of creamy chicken corn chowder.

Variations of Chicken Corn Chowder You Can Try

There are plenty of variations to make this chowder your own. For a healthier option, use low-fat milk or add more vegetables like kale or spinach. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, try a spicy chicken corn chowder recipe by adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne. If you’re in the mood for a twist, consider a chicken corn chowder with cream cheese to enhance creaminess. Each variation brings a new flavor profile that can keep this dish fresh and exciting!

For more tips on making chowder, check out this slow cooker creamy chicken recipe that can inspire your cooking!

Additionally, if you’re looking for a delicious dessert to pair with your chowder, consider trying these caramel apple cookies for a sweet finish!

Lastly, for a delightful side, you might enjoy these mini pistachio tartlets that complement the chowder perfectly!