If you have a craving for a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, juicy chicken with sweet corn and hearty potatoes, all enveloped in a velvety, indulgent broth. Every spoonful brings together just the right blend of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and rich cream, making it a comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings or whenever your soul calls for something deeply satisfying and full of flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but powerful, creating a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make this chowder truly special. Each component plays a key role, from the sweet crunch of corn to the creamy richness of heavy cream, resulting in a dish that’s as delicious as it is wholesome.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds a silky richness that helps sauté the vegetables and deepens the soup’s flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Balances the butter with a light, fruity dimension and prevents sticking.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and fragrant base to the chowder.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of savory aroma that enhances every bite.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Provides hearty protein and a tender texture that’s utterly comforting.
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen): Offer sweet bursts of flavor and a pop of yellow vibrancy.
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: Give the chowder a creamy thickness and rustic bite.
- 1 celery stalk, chopped: Adds a nice crunch and subtle earthiness.
- 1 carrot, chopped: Brings a hint of natural sweetness and bright color.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the chowder while lending it a smooth, luscious texture.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Creates the flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Contributes the rich, velvety texture that makes this chowder truly creamy.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the cream slightly for a perfect balance.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses a gentle herbal note that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Offers a warm, smoky layer of flavor for an extra dimension.
- Chopped parsley or chives for garnish: Adds fresh color and a lively herbal brightness to finish.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the diced onion. Cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes sweetly fragrant. Then stir in the minced garlic, letting it cook just 30 seconds longer to release its enticing aroma without burning.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Corn
Now, toss in the diced potatoes, chopped celery, carrot, and corn kernels. Cooking these together for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally lets the vegetables start to soften and mingle their flavors beautifully in the pot.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the vegetables and stir well to coat everything. This step creates the thickening agent for the chowder, ensuring that once the broth is added, your soup will develop a wonderfully creamy texture without clumps.
Step 4: Slowly Add Chicken Broth and Season
Pour the chicken broth in gradually, stirring constantly to avoid lumps and build a smooth base. Next, add salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and the optional smoked paprika to elevate the flavor profile. Bring the mix to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes until all the vegetables are fork-tender.
Step 5: Stir in Chicken, Cream, and Milk
Once the veggies have softened perfectly, fold in your cooked chicken, followed by the heavy cream and milk. Simmer everything together for another 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the chowder to thicken slightly and become luxuriously creamy while absorbing those rich, comforting flavors.
Step 6: Final Taste and Adjustments
Before serving, taste your chowder and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your moment to make it just right—maybe a touch more salt, a pinch more pepper, or a little extra thyme to bring out the herbal warmth.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or snipped chives on top is all you need to brighten the look and add a fresh, herbal pop to each bowl. These garnishes lend a delicate color contrast and invite you into the chowder’s comforting embrace.
Side Dishes
This chowder is hearty enough to enjoy on its own but pairs sensationally with warm, crusty bread or buttery biscuits. A crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables makes for a balanced, full meal that satisfies every craving.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party or special family meal, serve the chowder in rustic bread bowls or mini soup crocks. Drizzle a little extra cream or swirl in a spoonful of sour cream on top for elegance. You can also scatter cooked, crumbled bacon or shredded cheese on the surface for added layers of indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your delicious meal, store any leftover creamy chicken corn chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen beautifully overnight.
Freezing
This chowder freezes wonderfully, making it a smart option for meal prep. Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can stay frozen for up to 2 months without losing that signature creamy texture.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much, ensuring it returns to that silky, luscious consistency you love without sticking or burning.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly and is a fantastic way to make this chowder even quicker. Just shred or dice it and fold it in during the final steps.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the heavy cream and milk for coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative. The chowder will still be rich and comforting, though a bit different in flavor.
What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?
For a gluten-free version, try cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Just mix it with a little cold water before adding to prevent lumps and maintain that creamy texture.
Can I add other vegetables to the chowder?
Definitely! Feel free to add sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or even green beans to customize the chowder to your liking and add extra nutrition.
How do I make the chowder thicker?
To thicken your chowder, mash some of the potatoes in the pot or blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in. This natural thickening method keeps the texture homemade and hearty.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like a bowl of homemade Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe to bring comfort and joy to your day. With its easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and leisurely weekend cooking. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your go-to favorites that you’ll want to make again and again.
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Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder is a comforting and hearty soup perfect for chilly days. Made with tender chicken, sweet corn, and a rich blend of potatoes, celery, and carrots, it features a velvety broth thickened with a touch of flour and finished with cream and milk for extra indulgence. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, this chowder offers a delicious balance of flavors and creamy texture that makes for a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients
Fats & Oils
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen or fresh corn kernels
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
Proteins
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Dry Ingredients
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Liquids
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
Garnish
- Chopped parsley or chives
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Add vegetables: Add the diced potatoes, chopped celery, chopped carrot, and corn kernels. Cook for 5 minutes while stirring occasionally to begin softening the vegetables.
- Incorporate flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the vegetables and stir well to coat them thoroughly. This will help thicken the chowder.
- Add broth and spices: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika if using. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer vegetables: Reduce the heat to low and let the chowder simmer for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes and other vegetables are tender.
- Add chicken and cream: Stir in the cooked chicken, heavy cream, and milk. Simmer gently for another 5–10 minutes until the chowder is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the chowder and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh, colorful touch.
Notes
- For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds convenient flavor.
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon for an extra smoky, savory note.
- To make this chowder gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.
