Introduction to Chicken Corn Chowder
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes compare to the heartwarming goodness of Chicken Corn Chowder. Imagine a piping-hot bowl filled with tender chicken, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes—each spoonful is a hug on a cold day. This soup is not just nourishing; it's an experience that brings warmth to your kitchen and joy to your dinner table.
Why Chicken Corn Chowder is the Ultimate Comfort Food
Let’s face it: life can get hectic, and sometimes we all crave a little indulgence. Chicken Corn Chowder is the ultimate answer, blending flavors that captivate your taste buds. Combining the savory notes of turkey bacon and chicken with the natural sweetness of fresh corn, this chowder is both satisfying and revitalizing.
Not only does this dish warm you from the inside out, but it's also easy to prepare. In under an hour, you can whip up enough for the whole family—a perfect way to utilize seasonal ingredients like summer corn. With a setup that encourages personalization, feel free to add toppings that make it uniquely yours, whether it's crunchy corn chips or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
For a detailed recipe and how-to video, head over to my full article on Chicken Corn Chowder!
Ingredients for Chicken Corn Chowder
Creating the perfect Chicken Corn Chowder starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown to help you out!
Essential Ingredients List
To whip up this delicious chowder, you’ll need the following essentials:
- 6 strips turkey bacon (for a smoky flavor)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon diced jalapeño, seeds removed
- 1.5 tablespoons minced garlic
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound gold potatoes, cubed
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
- 2.5 cups sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
When you mix these ingredients together, you create a wonderful base for your chowder that’s rich and comforting.
Optional Toppings for Extra Flavor
While the chowder itself is scrumptious, consider adding some optional toppings to enhance the flavor:
- Corn chips or Fritos for crunch
- Scallions or green onions for a fresh bite
- Cilantro for a touch of earthiness
- Shredded cheddar cheese for extra creaminess
- Jalapeños for an added kick
These toppings not only elevate the dish but also allow you to customize your chowder experience. Enjoy making your delicious Chicken Corn Chowder!
Preparing Chicken Corn Chowder
Crafting the perfect Chicken Corn Chowder is not just about following steps; it’s about experiencing the joy of cooking and allowing the wonderful flavors to mingle. This chowder is a creamy, comforting dish that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Let’s dive into the process, step by step!
Cooking the Turkey Bacon
First things first, we need to infuse some incredible flavor into our chowder, and what better way than with turkey bacon? In a large pot or Dutch oven, place about six strips of uncooked turkey bacon, cut into pieces. Set the heat to medium and cook it until the bacon is crispy. This process typically takes around 5-7 minutes. Once it’s finished, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing it to drain while you reserve a couple of tablespoons of the grease. It’s this grease that's going to serve as the foundation for a rich and flavorful chowder.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Now that your kitchen smells delicious, let’s add some veggies! In the same pot with the leftover turkey bacon grease, throw in 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add a diced yellow onion, a red pepper, and a tablespoon of diced jalapeño. Sauté these for about 5 minutes or until they soften and become aromatic. The combination of onions and peppers creates a sweet and savory base that’s essential for your Chicken Corn Chowder.
Building the Base with Flour and Seasoning
Once the vegetables are nicely sautéed, it’s time to create that creamy texture! Sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour over the veggies and stir it in. This will help thicken your chowder. Toast the flour for about 30 seconds before adding in your seasonings: 1 teaspoon of salt, ¾ teaspoon of ground black pepper, ¾ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon of dry ground mustard. Give it a good stir! The seasoning blend adds depth and warmth to your chowder that you won't want to skip.
Combining Liquids and Key Ingredients
Now comes the fun part! Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth until everything is smoothly combined. Next, add 1 cup of water (or more chicken broth if you prefer), 1 cup of whole milk, and 1 cup of heavy cream to the mix. Toss in your diced potatoes and raw chicken breasts—this will typically be about a pound. Finally, add in 2 ½ cups of sweet corn. Bring this delightful mixture to a boil and let it simmer until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the potatoes are nice and tender, which should take about 15–20 minutes.
Shredding the Chicken and Pureeing the Soup
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred or dice it as you see fit. This is a great time to reflect on how amazing your kitchen smells! Blend about half of the soup using an immersion blender, which gives it that creamy chowder-like consistency while still keeping some chunks for texture. After pureeing, return the shredded chicken to the pot along with the reserved turkey bacon. Give it a final stir and taste for seasoning before serving!
With these steps, you're well on your way to a delicious bowl of Chicken Corn Chowder. Don't forget your desired toppings—feel free to experiment with corn chips, scallions, or even shredded cheddar to elevate your dish! Enjoy every spoonful.
Variations on Chicken Corn Chowder
Spicy Chicken Corn Chowder
If you're a fan of bold flavors, try adding a kick to your Chicken Corn Chowder with some spice! Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to awaken your taste buds. For an extra layer of heat, include a few dashes of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. Serve with a dollop of sour cream to balance the heat and top it off with fresh cilantro for a delicious twist!
Cheesy Chicken Corn Chowder
Who doesn’t love cheese? For a delightful, creamy variation, mix in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese after blending the chowder. This not only enriches the flavor of your Chicken Corn Chowder, but it also adds a luxurious texture that kids and adults alike will adore. To enhance its cheesiness, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan on top right before serving for that extra touch of indulgence!
Cooking Notes for Chicken Corn Chowder
Tips for Perfect Texture
For a creamy and well-balanced Chicken Corn Chowder, puréeing about half of the soup using an immersion blender adds a rich texture without losing the hearty bits of chicken and corn. If you prefer a smoother consistency, remember to blend in batches if you don’t have an immersion blender. Don’t skip the bacon—oops, I meant Turkey Bacon! It imparts a robust depth of flavor that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
Storage Suggestions
This chowder is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to plan for the future, you can store your soup without the dairy for freezing, which allows you to preserve the texture. Just add cream when reheating—it’s worth the wait!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Corn Chowder
Ideal Accompaniments
To complement your Chicken Corn Chowder, consider pairing it with some delicious sides. Cornbread is a classic choice, offering a slightly sweet balance to the savory flavors of the chowder. Alternatively, a fresh green salad topped with your favorite vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch. If you're in the mood for something heartier, serve it with warm, crusty bread or some savory garlic knots.
Best Ways to Enjoy Your Chowder
Enjoy your Chicken Corn Chowder on its own, or elevate it with a few fun toppings! Consider adding a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy finish. Crispy turkey bacon bits can give a delightful crunch, while a dollop of sour cream adds tangy richness. For a fresh twist, chopped cilantro or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile. Enjoy it warm, and savor every comforting spoonful!
For more recipes and inspiration, check out The Kitchn and Serious Eats for additional cooking tips and tricks!
Time Breakdown for Chicken Corn Chowder
Preparation Time
The magic starts with just 25 minutes of preparation. This includes chopping veggies, dicing chicken, and getting your ingredients ready for the pot. It's a quick and straightforward process, perfect for any young professional looking to whip up something tasty after a busy day.
Cook Time
Once you’ve prepped, it’s time to cook! The Chicken Corn Chowder simmers for an additional 25 minutes. You'll be amazed at how quickly the flavors meld together to create a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach.
Total Time
All in, you’ll spend around 50 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re making this for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a time-efficient choice that delivers big on flavor!
For insights into meal prepping and cooking tips, check out resources from the USDA Food Safety for safe cooking practices!
Nutritional Facts for Chicken Corn Chowder
Calories Per Serving
Each serving of Chicken Corn Chowder contains approximately 554 calories, making it a hearty, satisfying option for dinner or lunch.
Nutritional Breakdown
This comforting chowder packs a nutritional punch with:
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 34g, including 17g saturated fat
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 9g
Rich in vitamins and minerals, it provides Vitamin A (1801 IU) and Vitamin C (50 mg) along with essential nutrients like calcium and iron. Enjoy this bowl of warmth and feel good about what you're eating!
For further insights into the nutritional benefits of corn and its role in a balanced diet, check out this resource.
FAQs about Chicken Corn Chowder
Can I use leftover chicken for the chowder?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds even more flavor to your Chicken Corn Chowder. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken and stir it in after you've pureed the soup—just ensure it's warmed through before serving. This is a perfect way to utilize any rotisserie chicken or previous meal leftovers!
How can I make this chowder lighter?
If you're looking to lighten up your Chicken Corn Chowder, there are a few simple swaps you can make. Consider using low-fat milk instead of whole milk and reducing the amount of heavy cream for a lighter consistency. You can also add more veggies, like zucchini or spinach, to boost nutrient density without adding heaviness.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Don’t worry if you’re out of heavy cream! You can substitute it with half-and-half or even whole milk mixed with a bit of flour to increase the thickness. Alternatively, coconut milk works as a dairy-free option, lending a unique flavor to your chowder. Check out more cream substitutes to fit your dietary needs!
Conclusion on Chicken Corn Chowder
In conclusion, Chicken Corn Chowder is a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors with wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and hearty components will surely warm your heart. Try this recipe for a delicious meal your family will love! For more tips, check out this guide on soup-making essentials.
Chicken Corn Chowder
Equipment
- large pot or dutch oven
- Immersion blender (recommended)
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs raw
Vegetables
- 1 medium yellow onion diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 medium red pepper diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 Tablespoon diced jalapeno seeds and ribs removed
- 1 lb Gold potatoes diced into 1” cubes, no need to peel
- 2.5 cups sweet corn fresh, frozen, or canned
Dairy
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Fats
- 6 strips uncooked bacon cut into pieces
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
Miscellaneous
- 1.5 Tablespoons minced garlic
- 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon table salt plus more to taste
- 0.75 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.75 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon dry ground mustard
- 1 cup water or another cup of chicken broth
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Place bacon pieces in a large pot or Dutch oven. Turn heat to medium and cook until bacon is crisp. Remove to a paper towel lined plate and set aside.
- Drain all but approximately 2 Tablespoons of bacon grease.
- Add butter to the pot with the remaining bacon grease and cook until butter is melted.
- Add diced onion, red pepper, and jalapeno and cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir until it’s fully absorbed. Cook another 30 seconds longer to lightly toast the flour.
- Stir in salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth until completely combined.
- Add water, milk, cream, potatoes, chicken, and corn. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove chicken to a plate and shred or dice. Set aside and keep warm.
- Use an immersion blender to puree approximately half of the soup.
- Return chicken to the pot. Stir reserved bacon back into the pot or serve on top. Taste-test and adjust seasoning.
- Serve warm with desired toppings.
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