Chicken Corn Chowder is a hearty and comforting soup that combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, creamy broth. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving a satisfying meal that’s both flavorful and nourishing. The addition of bacon adds a smoky depth, while the use of heavy cream and potatoes contributes to its luxurious texture. Whether served as a main course or a starter, this chowder is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2-inch strips
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 3/4-inch pieces
1 cup diced yellow onion (1/4-inch dice)
1/2 cup diced celery (1/4-inch dice)
1/2 cup diced carrots (1/4-inch dice)
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper (1/4-inch dice)
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced jalapeño (optional)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken stock or broth
2 cups diced russet potatoes (1/2-inch dice)
3 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons sliced green onions, for garnish

Directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot and cook until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pot, add the diced onion, celery, carrots, red bell pepper, garlic, jalapeño (if using), and thyme. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the diced potatoes, corn kernels, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with the crispy bacon and sliced green onions. Serve hot.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 30 g
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 6 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg
Sodium: 800 mg

The Origins of Chowder

Chowder, as a dish, has its roots in early American cooking, and while its exact origins are debated, many attribute its creation to early settlers in New England. Traditionally, chowders were thick soups made from seafood, often clams, that were combined with potatoes, onions, and sometimes dairy. Over the years, the popularity of chowders expanded, with countless variations that incorporated different meats and vegetables.

Chicken Corn Chowder is a more contemporary version of the classic chowder, with its origins stemming from the regional comfort foods of North America. It reflects the evolving nature of the dish, incorporating the flavors and ingredients readily available in modern kitchens. The soup has become a staple in many homes, especially in colder climates where its warmth and richness are especially comforting. With its combination of chicken and corn, this chowder offers a lighter, but equally satisfying alternative to seafood chowders.

Why Chicken Corn Chowder Works So Well

Chicken Corn Chowder brings together a variety of textures and flavors, making each spoonful a satisfying experience. The tender chunks of chicken provide a lean source of protein, while the corn adds a subtle sweetness that balances out the savory flavors of the soup. The vegetables—onions, carrots, celery, and bell pepper—contribute not only to the flavor but also to the color and texture of the dish, making it visually appealing and inviting.

The star of Chicken Corn Chowder, however, is the broth. A rich base made from chicken stock, thickened with flour, and finished with cream creates a smooth and luxurious texture that coats the ingredients beautifully. The creaminess of the soup is what makes it so comforting, providing a velvety mouthfeel that is perfect for a chilly day. The addition of smoked paprika and bacon brings layers of smoky flavor that elevate the soup beyond a simple chicken and corn combination, making it a more complex and satisfying dish.

The Health Benefits of Chicken Corn Chowder

Though Chicken Corn Chowder is undoubtedly a comfort food, it also offers several health benefits. Chicken, as the primary source of protein in the dish, provides essential amino acids needed for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. It is a lean source of protein, particularly if you use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, making it a heart-healthy option compared to fattier cuts of meat.

Corn, a key ingredient in this chowder, is rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. It also contains several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, thiamine, and folate, which contribute to overall wellness. Potatoes, another essential component of the soup, are high in potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure, and provide a good source of carbohydrates for energy.

The vegetables in the chowder, such as carrots and celery, are low in calories and high in vitamins and antioxidants, which support the body’s immune system and help protect against inflammation. Adding a variety of vegetables ensures that this soup is not only flavorful but also nutritionally balanced.

Customizing Your Chicken Corn Chowder

One of the great things about Chicken Corn Chowder is how easily it can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. For those who prefer a spicier soup, adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can provide an extra kick. The smoky flavor from bacon can be enhanced with additional smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke for a more pronounced smoky profile.

For those looking to make the soup even more hearty, additional vegetables such as zucchini, parsnips, or leeks can be incorporated. These vegetables blend well with the existing ingredients, adding texture and a subtle change in flavor. You can also swap out the potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, more nutrient-dense version of the dish.

If you are looking to make the soup lighter, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. This will reduce the fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture. For a healthier alternative to bacon, turkey bacon or pancetta can be used, or the bacon can be omitted entirely for a vegetarian version of the soup.

Pairing Chicken Corn Chowder with Sides

While Chicken Corn Chowder is hearty enough to stand on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the meal and provide a more balanced dining experience. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy soup. The acidity in the vinaigrette helps cut through the creaminess, refreshing your palate between spoonfuls.

For a more indulgent pairing, consider serving the chowder with crusty bread or a warm baguette. The bread will allow you to soak up the flavorful broth, making every bite even more satisfying. A side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or roasted sweet potatoes, would also complement the flavors of the soup, offering additional nutrients and texture to the meal.

If you prefer a lighter side, a fresh fruit salad can provide a sweet and refreshing balance to the savory flavors of the chowder. The combination of juicy fruits like apples, pears, and citrus will cleanse your palate and add a burst of natural sweetness to the meal.

Making Chicken Corn Chowder Ahead of Time

Chicken Corn Chowder is the perfect dish to prepare in advance, as it only improves in flavor after a day or two in the refrigerator. The flavors have time to meld together, making the soup even more delicious the next day. If you’re planning to make the soup ahead of time, simply allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be kept for up to three days.

To reheat, simply warm the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. If the soup has thickened too much after refrigeration, you can add a bit more chicken stock or milk to reach your desired consistency.

This makes Chicken Corn Chowder an excellent option for meal prepping or preparing for busy weeknights when you don’t have the time to cook from scratch. It can also be a great dish for entertaining, as it can be made in advance and served to a crowd with minimal effort.

Conclusion

Chicken Corn Chowder is more than just a soup; it is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines rich flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, and a creamy broth, accented by the smoky flavor of bacon, makes this chowder a crowd-pleaser. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers several nutritional benefits, thanks to the inclusion of lean chicken, fiber-rich corn, and antioxidant-packed vegetables.

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