If you’re craving something cozy, hearty, and packed with comforting flavors, this Easy Chicken and Corn Chowder Recipe is just what you need. It’s a lovely blend of tender chicken, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes simmered together with bacon and a hint of spice that warms you up from the inside out. Whether you’re making a simple weeknight dinner or inviting friends over for a casual meal, this chowder strikes the perfect balance between rich and fresh, easy to make but impressive in taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step towards making a bowl of chowder that is bursting with texture, flavor, and color. Each item plays a crucial role, from the smoky bacon that adds depth to the sweetness of the corn and the creaminess brought by the heavy cream.
- Bacon (6 strips, cut into small pieces): Adds a smoky, crispy flavor that forms the base of the chowder’s richness.
- Chicken breasts (2 large, bite-size pieces): Provides tender, protein-packed bites that make the chowder filling.
- Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Gives a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth as it sautés.
- Celery (2 sticks, chopped): Brings a fresh, slightly peppery crunch balancing the creaminess.
- Flour (1/4 cup): Thickens the chowder, giving it that luscious, creamy texture.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a robust and inviting aroma.
- Chicken broth or stock (4 cups): The flavorful liquid that ties all ingredients together.
- Corn (2 cups, frozen or fresh): Sweet bursts of corn round out the chowder perfectly.
- Heavy/whipping cream (1 cup): Creates that luxurious, velvety body the chowder is known for.
- Russet potatoes (3 medium-large, peeled & diced): Adds hearty bulk and smooth, tender texture when cooked through.
- Italian seasoning (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle blend of herbs bringing warmth and earthiness.
- Cayenne pepper (pinch, optional): Just a touch to awaken the flavors without overpowering.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning your chowder perfectly.
- Scallions (chopped, optional): Fresh garnish that adds a bright note at the end.
How to Make Easy Chicken and Corn Chowder Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by prepping your bacon. Using kitchen shears makes quick work of cutting it into small pieces. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium-high heat until every piece is perfectly crispy, which takes about 10 minutes. This step releases flavorful fat that you’ll use later, so don’t drain the grease!
Step 2: Prep the Veggies and Chicken
While the bacon crisps up, chop your onion, celery, and potatoes, and cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Having everything ready now makes the next steps a breeze.
Step 3: Reserve the Bacon, Keep the Grease
Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and drain it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave all that flavorful bacon grease in the pot—this is the secret ingredient that adds a smoky richness to the chowder.
Step 4: Sauté Onion and Celery
Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot and cook them over medium heat for about 5 minutes. This softens the vegetables and unlocks their natural sweetness, setting a delicious foundation for the chowder.
Step 5: Add Flour and Cook
Sprinkle in the flour and stir it constantly for about one minute. This step cooks off the raw flour taste and starts building the base for your chowder to thicken up beautifully.
Step 6: Stir in Garlic and Broth
Add the minced garlic to the pot and give it a quick stir, letting its aroma come through before pouring in the chicken broth. Stir well to dissolve any flour lumps and scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pot—this adds a ton of flavor.
Step 7: Add Chicken and Remaining Ingredients
Pour in the chicken pieces, corn, cream, diced potatoes, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of cayenne if you like a little kick. Sprinkle in most of the crispy bacon, saving some for garnish. Turn up the heat to bring the chowder to a boil, then reduce it to a rapid simmer with the lid slightly cracked to let it thicken gently and cook perfectly.
Step 8: Simmer Until Potatoes Are Tender
Let the chowder simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the potatoes cook, the soup will naturally thicken into a creamy, hearty meal that’s begging to be ladled into bowls.
Step 9: Season and Garnish
Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Top each serving with the reserved crispy bacon and a handful of chopped scallions for a fresh, crunchy finish that brightens every spoonful.
How to Serve Easy Chicken and Corn Chowder Recipe
Garnishes
Adding crispy bacon bits and fresh scallions on top not only looks inviting but brings an irresistible combination of smokiness and crunch that elevates this chowder from good to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This chowder pairs beautifully with a crusty baguette or warm, buttery cornbread. Both sides help soak up every creamy drop and add a lovely texture contrast to the silky soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chowder in hollowed-out bread bowls or small cast-iron skillets. You can also sprinkle a little shredded cheddar or a swirl of sour cream on top for extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
Freezing
This Easy Chicken and Corn Chowder Recipe freezes well. Just cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It’ll stay good for up to 2 months. Keep in mind, potatoes may change texture slightly after freezing but the flavor remains fantastic.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. This helps maintain the creamy texture without scorching. If the chowder is too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this chowder?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, just add it during the last few minutes of simmering to warm through without overcooking.
Is it okay to use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?
You can use canned corn but drain it well to avoid excess liquid, which can thin out the chowder. Adjust broth accordingly.
Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The chowder will still be creamy and delicious with a slightly different flavor profile.
What if I want a thicker chowder?
Simply add a little more flour during the sauté step, or mash a few of the potatoes against the pot as it cooks to naturally thicken the soup.
Can I add other vegetables to this chowder?
Definitely! Diced carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach would be great additions. Just adjust cooking times to keep everything tender and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken and Corn Chowder Recipe is truly a comforting classic that everyone needs in their recipe box. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to feel like a treat. So grab your ingredients, cozy up in the kitchen, and enjoy every creamy, bacon-studded spoonful!
