Delicious Chicken Corn Chowder

My family has always had a love affair with soups, especially those that are creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless recipes, but one that consistently earns rave reviews is my Chicken Corn Chowder.

It’s more than just a soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles and anticipation. I still remember the first time I made it, guided by a scribbled recipe card from my grandmother. It was a chilly autumn evening, and the aroma of simmering corn and chicken filled the house. The warmth and joy it brought was just the feeling I wanted to create.

What surprised me most was how easily this Chicken Corn Chowder became a family favorite. Even my pickiest eater, my youngest son, devoured it without complaint, declaring it the best soup ever! That’s when I knew I had stumbled upon something special. This Chicken Corn Chowder creates such a strong family connection through its authentic flavors.

My journey to perfect it involved lots of family taste tests and spice adjustments. My goal is to share this simple recipe with fellow home cooks seeking genuine, flavorful meals that warm the heart and nourish the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the best flavor in your Chicken Corn Chowder, I recommend sourcing your spices from a local spice shop if possible. You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this Chicken Corn Chowder at farmers’ markets and local grocery stores.

Ingredients for homemade chicken corn chowder including chicken, corn, potatoes, and spices.
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Sourced from a local farm for the best quality.
  • 6 cups chicken broth: Homemade is best, but a good quality store-bought option works too.
  • 1 large onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion, finely chopped.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced for the most aromatic flavor.
  • 4 cups frozen corn: I prefer organic frozen corn.
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 4 cups diced potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: For that signature creamy texture.
  • 4 tbsp butter: Unsalted butter adds richness.
  • 4 tbsp flour: All-purpose flour, for thickening.
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika: This is my secret ingredient!
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme: Adds an earthy, savory note.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Freshly ground black pepper is a must.

This Chicken Corn Chowder proves that authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices, like using high-quality chicken broth and fresh vegetables. My family loves when I add a pinch of cayenne pepper to our Chicken Corn Chowder for a little kick! Trust me, this Chicken Corn Chowder ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors!

Let’s Create This Together!

  1. First, melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Next, sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about a minute to create a roux. This will help thicken the creamy chicken corn soup. Be sure to stir continuously to avoid burning.
  3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer. In my kitchen, this flavorful Chicken Corn Chowder typically takes about 15 minutes to reach a simmer.
  4. Add the diced potatoes and red bell pepper to the pot. Season with smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Chicken Corn Chowder – learn from my experience!
  5. Add the chicken breasts to the pot. Ensure they are fully submerged in the liquid. Bring the chowder back to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation!
  6. Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the chowder. Don’t be surprised if your Chicken Corn Chowder develops a richer color as the chicken simmers.
  7. Stir in the frozen corn and heavy cream. Heat through, but do not boil. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. While your Chicken Corn Chowder is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family!
  8. Continue to simmer the corn chowder with chicken recipe for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Your Chicken Corn Chowder should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now. This easy chicken chowder is almost ready!
  9. Once thickened to your liking, serve hot and garnish with your favorite toppings. This cooking process creates the flavors that make my homemade chicken corn chowder so special!

How We Love to Enjoy This!

We love to serve our Chicken Corn Chowder with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup. The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Chicken Corn Chowder appears with freshly baked bread.

This Chicken Corn Chowder is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying! It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks or serve during casual gatherings with friends. For presentation, I like to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and add a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of hot sauce for those who like a little extra heat.

If you have any leftover Chicken Corn Chowder, it’s delicious reheated the next day. It also freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prepping. For a seasonal variation, try adding roasted butternut squash in the fall for a sweeter, heartier version. This flavorful Chicken Corn Chowder reminds me of another family favorite, Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Does this Chicken Corn Chowder really satisfy hearty appetites?

Absolutely! This Chicken Corn Chowder is packed with chicken, potatoes, and corn, making it a filling and satisfying meal. The creamy broth adds a richness that keeps everyone feeling full and content.

What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Chicken Corn Chowder?

That’s easy to adjust! Simply reduce or omit the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper. You can also add a touch of honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors. This Chicken Corn Chowder is versatile and can be customized to suit everyone’s taste.

How can I prepare this Chicken Corn Chowder ahead for busy weeks?

You can easily make this Chicken Corn Chowder a day or two in advance. Simply prepare the soup according to the recipe instructions, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Can I use canned corn instead of frozen corn?

Yes, you can use canned corn if you prefer. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the chowder. Keep in mind that frozen corn tends to have a slightly sweeter flavor than canned corn. This is an ingredient variation you can apply to this creamy chicken corn soup.

Is it possible to make this Chicken Corn Chowder in a slow cooker?

Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the onions and garlic in a skillet, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients (except the heavy cream and corn). Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the heavy cream and corn during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Check out this great Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder recipe from Creme De La Crumb.

What are some good toppings for Chicken Corn Chowder?

Some of our favorite toppings include crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, hot sauce, and fresh parsley. Feel free to get creative and add your own favorite toppings! The options are endless when adding toppings to this corn chowder with chicken recipe.

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time and add even more flavor to the chowder. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the pot along with the frozen corn and heavy cream. For more genuine cooking ideas for family meals, explore Chicken Pot Pie Soup.

Final Kitchen Wisdom:

This Chicken Corn Chowder supports my family’s authentic meal goals by being a comforting, nutritious, and easy-to-customize dish. It’s a meal that everyone enjoys, and it’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients. This homemade chicken corn chowder is the perfect comfort food for a cold day.

My Chicken Corn Chowder Flavor Secrets:

  1. Smoked paprika adds a unique depth of flavor that elevates the chowder.
  2. Using homemade chicken broth makes a huge difference in the overall taste.
  3. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper gives it a subtle kick.

Here are some family-tested Chicken Corn Chowder variations:

  • Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Cheesy: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of cream cheese.
  • Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini.

My son loves the cheesy version, while my daughter prefers it with a little extra spice. I encourage you to experiment with different flavors and make it your own signature version. If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for Candy Corn Poke Cake!

I hope this recipe inspires you to create a satisfying and flavorful meal for your family. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting, having fun, and sharing delicious food with the people you love. Enjoy creating this satisfying Chicken Corn Chowder and bringing your family together with a warm, comforting bowl of goodness! I’m confident you will make a delicious batch of easy chicken chowder.

Bowl of homemade chicken corn chowder garnished with parsley.

I hope your family enjoys this Chicken Corn Chowder as much as mine does!

 

Print

Chicken Corn Chowder

Bowl of Homemade Chicken Corn Chowder

This creamy and comforting Chicken Corn Chowder is packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, and savory vegetables. It’s the perfect easy and satisfying meal for a chilly day.

  • Author: Savannah Rose
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 2 cups frozen corn
  • 1 cup diced potatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and add chicken, corn, potatoes, thyme, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and salt to taste. Heat through.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

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