Creamy Chicken and Corn Chowder

Creamy Chicken and Corn Chowder is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, offering a rich, hearty texture that’s both filling and easy to make. With tender chicken, sweet corn, and creamy broth seasoned just right, this soup is perfect for cooler nights or anytime you need a satisfying, one-bowl meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chowder is a cozy and satisfying dish that’s loaded with protein, veggies, and flavor. It’s quick to make, adaptable to what you have on hand, and stores well for leftovers. The creamy base, combined with naturally sweet corn and savory chicken, creates a spoonful of comfort every time. It’s also family-friendly and freezer-friendly—what’s not to love?

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• olive oil or butter
• boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• salt and black pepper
• onion, chopped
• garlic, minced
• celery, chopped
• carrots, diced (optional)
• potatoes, peeled and cubed
• all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• chicken broth
• corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• heavy cream or half-and-half
• thyme or Italian seasoning
• cooked, crumbled bacon (optional topping)
• green onions or parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Heat oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onion, celery, and carrots (if using) until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
3. Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste.
4. Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring to combine. Add diced potatoes, thyme or Italian seasoning, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
6. Return chicken to the pot along with corn and cream. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes until heated through and thickened slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with bacon, green onions, or parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth; add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
• Seafood Style: Use shrimp or crab instead of chicken for a coastal twist.
• Cheesy Chowder: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving for a richer flavor.
• Low-Carb: Omit potatoes and use cauliflower florets instead.

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Let cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. Stir in a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore texture.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great shortcut. Add it in during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking to heat through.

How do I thicken the chowder more?

Add a cornstarch slurry or mash some of the potatoes directly into the soup.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. It will change the flavor slightly but still be creamy.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Yukon Golds or Russets are ideal because they become soft and help thicken the soup.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients except the cream and flour. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, then stir in cream and a flour slurry for the last 30 minutes.

Is fresh corn better than frozen or canned?

Fresh is great when in season, but frozen and canned work perfectly year-round.

Can I omit the flour?

Yes, but the soup will be thinner. Use cornstarch or simply let the potatoes thicken the chowder as they cook.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Replace flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. This chowder is great for feeding a crowd or for meal prep.

What can I serve with it?

Crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh salad pair perfectly with this chowder.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Corn Chowder is a comforting and filling soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. It’s simple to prepare, rich in flavor, and endlessly adaptable to suit your taste. Whether you serve it as a meal on its own or pair it with your favorite sides, this chowder is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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