Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a delightful dish that warms your heart and fills your belly. It’s an easy, creamy chowder that combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and hearty potatoes, perfect for a cozy meal. This comforting recipe allows you to enjoy a rich, flavorful soup with minimal effort, thanks to your trusty slow cooker.
Why We Love This Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe
What sets this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder apart is its simplicity and rich flavor. You can throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready to enjoy. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the sweet corn and tender chicken, creating a well-balanced dish. It’s also versatile enough for any occasion—be it a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while providing comfort on chilly nights.
Ingredients about Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 2 cups sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, diced
- 2-3 potatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: thyme or parsley for garnish
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Directions
Making this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is incredibly straightforward. Begin by placing the chicken breasts directly at the bottom of your slow cooker. This helps keep the chicken moist as it cooks, ensuring a tender result. Next, proceed to layer in the diced onion, minced garlic, and the diced potatoes. The potatoes add a lovely heartiness to the chowder while the onion and garlic contribute to its aromatic base.
Once you’ve added the vegetables, sprinkle in the sweet corn. Whether you choose to use fresh corn from the cob or opt for frozen corn is entirely up to you. Each variation possesses its own distinct taste, and both will yield delicious results.
Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth. This savory liquid serves as the core of your chowder, infusing all the ingredients with flavor as they slowly cook. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper to suit your taste. If you enjoy a hint of herbal flavor, consider adding thyme or parsley at this stage.
After preparing your ingredients, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. You have the option to set it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking it on low allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and comforting chowder.
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, it’s time for a crucial step: shredding the chicken. Remove the chicken breasts from the cooker, shred them using two forks, and return the tender, shredded pieces back to the chowder. Stir in the heavy cream, which gives the chowder its rich, creamy finish. Let it heat through for those final moments before serving.
Serve your delicious chowder warm, and if you desire, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for an added touch of color and flavor. Enjoy each comforting spoonful!
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder
Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a complete meal on its own, but there are many simple ways to enhance your dining experience. Consider pairing it with a slice of crusty bread or warm, buttery rolls. This combo is perfect for dunking! For a more filling option, you might serve it alongside a fresh green salad, offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
If you’re feeling extra creative, you can set up a chowder bar! Place toppings like shredded cheese, fresh herbs, or even crisply toasted croutons on the table, allowing everyone to customize their bowl. This interactive element adds a fun twist to your meal, making it even more enjoyable.
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving the chowder in elegant bowls, topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an upscale presentation. The vibrant colors of the corn and herbs will brighten up any table setting, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder
Creating the best Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is simple with a few expert tips. First, always season throughout the cooking process. You can add salt and pepper at the beginning, but taste the chowder before serving. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, as flavors may develop over time.
Consider using homemade chicken broth for a richer flavor, although store-bought is convenient. If you’re short on time, a low-sodium option allows you to control the saltiness.
When it comes to chicken, you can use boneless thighs or even leftover rotisserie chicken for added convenience. Both options will yield delicious results.
For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream. This will enhance the creaminess without the need for extra ingredients. Also, adding some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can enhance color and flavor.
If you have a little extra time, let the chowder sit after cooking. Letting it rest for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld further, giving you an even more delicious outcome.
How to Store Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder
Storing your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is easy and convenient! Once it has cooled down, ladle leftovers into airtight containers. Ensure that they are sealed properly to prevent any air from getting in. Your chowder will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
If you want to store the chowder for a longer period, consider freezing it! Just ensure that you use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. Frozen chowder can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Variation of Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder
One of the best aspects of this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is its versatility. Feel free to get creative with variations to suit your tastes.
If you want a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This adds a delightful warmth that complements the sweetness of the corn.
For a cheesier chowder, incorporate shredded cheddar about 15-20 minutes before serving. This adds a deliciously creamy texture and a burst of cheesy goodness.
Vegetarian or vegan? Simply swap out the chicken for your favorite plant-based protein, like chickpeas or lentils. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and substitute coconut cream for heavy cream for a rich texture without dairy.
Want to enhance the nutrients? Toss in some kale or spinach about 30 minutes before the chowder is done. This adds a delightful pop of green while boosting the nutritional value of your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder?
Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a creamy soup made with chicken, corn, potatoes, and seasonings cooked slowly in a crockpot for rich flavors.
How long do you cook Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder?
You can cook it on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen chicken breast works well in the crockpot, and you can cook it without thawing.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and ensure your chicken broth is dairy-free for a delicious dairy-free version.
How do I thicken my Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder?
To thicken your chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.
Now that you have a delicious recipe in hand, you’re all set to create your own comforting bowl of Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder. Dive into this cozy dish and impress your family or guests with its rich, savory flavors!