As the evening chill creeps in, I often find myself rummaging through my pantry, craving something warm and satisfying. This is when my go-to recipe for Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder comes to the rescue! With its luscious texture and fusion of tender chicken, sweet corn, and hearty potatoes, this dish offers the ultimate comfort food experience. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. You can easily customize the ingredients, whether you want to spice things up with jalapeƱos or toss in some extra veggies. In just a few hours, you’ll have a bowlful of goodness that warms your soul. So, are you ready to dive into this creamy delight?
Why Is This Chowder So Irresistible?
Comforting, Creamy Goodness: This chowder wraps you in a cozy embrace with its rich, velvety texture and delicious flavor profile.
Effortless Preparation: Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
Customizable Delight: Want to kick it up a notch? Feel free to add spicy jalapeƱos or a medley of seasonal veggies for a personalized touch.
Family-Bonding Meal: Perfect for gatherings, you’ll find everyone returning for seconds and sharing smiles around the table.
Make-Ahead Marvel: Prepare it on Sunday, and enjoy hearty bowls throughout the week ā just reheat and savor!
If you love hearty, comforting dishes, check out my favorite Buffalo Chicken Bombs or try your hand at Mastering Smoked Chicken for more delicious inspiration!
Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Ingredients
For the Chowder Base
ā¢ Chicken Breasts ā Boneless, skinless breasts are ideal for easy shredding once cooked.
ā¢ Chicken Broth ā Adds moisture and depth; opt for low-sodium for a healthier choice.
ā¢ Diced Potatoes ā Fresh or frozen, they create a creamy texture; peel and dice if using fresh.
ā¢ Green Chiles ā Provides mild heat and flavor; swap for jalapeƱos for a spicier kick if desired.
ā¢ Diced Onion ā Enhances the chowderās sweetness; shallots can be used as a substitute.
ā¢ Cream-Style Corn ā Contributes creaminess and sweetness; regular corn with cream works too.
For the Creamy Finish
ā¢ Heavy Cream ā Adds richness; you can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
ā¢ Garlic Powder ā Adds seasoning without overwhelming flavor; fresh minced garlic is a great alternative.
ā¢ Crispy Bacon Pieces ā Imparts crunch and savory goodness; can be omitted or replaced with turkey bacon.
Seasoning Essentials
ā¢ Salt & Pepper ā Essential for tasting; adjust to personal preference before serving.
Indulge in this creamy slow cooker chicken corn chowderāyour family will surely love it!
StepābyāStep Instructions for Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a slow cooker, add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chicken broth, diced potatoes, green chiles, diced onion, and cream-style corn. Make sure to mix everything well to ensure an even distribution of flavors. The vibrant colors of the ingredients should inspire excitement as you prepare this comforting slow cooker chicken corn chowder.
Step 2: Cook
Set your slow cooker to low heat and cover with the lid, allowing it to cook for 4 hours. As the chowder simmers, the aroma will fill your kitchen, promising a heartwarming meal ahead. The chicken will be tender by the end of this period, making it easy to shred for the next step.
Step 3: Shred Chicken
After 4 hours, carefully remove the lid and shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. The chicken should be tender and easy to pull apart. Gently stir to incorporate the shredded chicken into the mixture, enhancing the overall texture of your creamy chowder.
Step 4: Add Cream and Seasonings
Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, crispy bacon pieces, salt, and pepper into the chowder mixture. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors, and cover the slow cooker again, cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes. This step will add creaminess and allow the chowder to thicken beautifully.
Step 5: Serve
Once thickened, ladle the creamy slow cooker chicken corn chowder into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for added flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy this heartwarming dish hot, perfect for chilly evenings and cheerful family gatherings.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
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Ingredient Mixing: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed before cooking to help prevent sticking or uneven cooking in your slow cooker chicken corn chowder.
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Thicker Consistency: If you desire a creamier texture, consider mashing some of the potatoes with a fork or adding a cornstarch slurry toward the end of cooking.
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Frozen Corn Use: To enhance the texture, use frozen corn directly in the chowder without thawing. It’s quick and helps maintain a fresh taste!
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Season to Taste: Always taste your chowder before serving! Adjust salt and pepper levels based on personal preference; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
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Make-Ahead Option: This chowder is fantastic for meal prep; it can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently, adding extra broth if needed.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe! Add bell peppers, carrots, or even some diced jalapeƱos for a unique twist in your slow cooker chicken corn chowder.
Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow it to cool before refrigerating for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the chowder in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore consistency.
Make-Ahead: This chowder is perfect for meal prep! Prepare in advance, and simply reheat when you’re ready for a comforting bowl of slow cooker chicken corn chowder.
What to Serve with Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Surround yourself with delectable sides that elevate your comforting chowder experience.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm, crusty loaf complements the chowderās creaminess while offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the rich flavors of the chowder nicely.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Buttery, garlicky breadsticks provide a comforting twist, allowing you to scoop up the chowder and enjoy every morsel.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chowder, making for an extra cozy meal that satisfies even the heartiest of appetites.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness from roasted Brussels sprouts pairs well with the sweet corn and savory chicken, creating a delightful contrast.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a fun texture and can serve as a unique way to enjoy the chowder, adding a culinary adventure to your meal.
- Apple Crisp: To finish off your comforting feast, a warm apple crisp brings a sweet, spiced note that beautifully rounds out the savory chowder experience.
- Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay adds a crisp, fruity note that complements the chowder’s richness, enhancing your entire dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising flavor! You can chop and measure all your vegetables (onions, potatoes, green chiles) and store them in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, you can combine the chicken, broth, and cream-style corn in the slow cooker the night before; just refrigerate and set it to cook in the morning! To maintain quality, be sure to tightly cover and refrigerate ingredients. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting soup, simply add the heavy cream and seasonings during the last 20 minutes of cooking. You’ll have a delicious and hearty meal ready with minimal effort!
Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Variations
Feel free to explore delightful twists for this creamy chowder that will make it uniquely yours!
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Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers or carrots for a rainbow of nutrition. Each bite will burst with color and crunch, enhancing not just flavor but also health.
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Spicy Kick: Spice it up with diced jalapeƱos or a dash of hot sauce. This will introduce a zing of heat that contrasts beautifully with the chowderās creaminess.
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Faster Alternative: Replace chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken to save time. This shortcut will still deliver hearty flavor without any extra cooking effort.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a rich, non-dairy version. This adds a subtle sweetness that complements the corn and spices.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme right before serving. Fragrant herbs will elevate the dish, adding a fresh layer of flavor that dances on your palate.
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Sweet Corn Medley: Mix in different types of corn, such as sweet corn or even a hint of creamed corn for an extra burst of sweetness. This will make your chowder taste even more vibrant and rich.
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Protein Variety: Experiment with other proteins like diced turkey or even shrimp for a seafood twist. Pairing the chowder with varied proteins can take your meal to a delightful new dimension.
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Texture Twists: For a thicker chowder, mash some of your potatoes as mentioned in the tips. The added creaminess will create a luscious mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more.
Once you’ve created your masterpiece, consider pairing it with a side of crusty bread or a light, crisp salad to balance the flavors. And for more exciting dishes, you might enjoy the warmth of Alice Springs Chicken or dive into the smoky goodness of Blackstone Chicken. Enjoy the exploration!
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for the chowder?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they are tender and easy to shred after cooking. For even quicker prep, you can substitute with shredded rotisserie chickenājust add it in during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
How should I store leftovers of the chowder?
To keep your chowder fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools before placing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently, adding a splash of chicken broth if it has thickened.
Can I freeze Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder?
Certainly! You can freeze the chowder in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some room at the top of the container for expansion. For reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then warm it up on the stove, using broth if needed to restore consistency.
What if my chowder is too thick when cooked?
If you find your chowder has thickened more than youād like, don’t worry! Just stir in a little bit of chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. If you want it creamier, you can mash up some of the diced potatoes to thicken it furtherāthis also enhances the texture!
Is this chowder suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very! If you’re looking to make it lighter, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk. For dairy-free options, consider using coconut milk. Always check labels for allergens if sharing with friends or family who may have dietary restrictions. If you have pets, ensure they don’t get any of the chowder, especially with ingredients like onions or garlic that could harm them.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder That Comforts You
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a slow cooker, add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chicken broth, diced potatoes, green chiles, diced onion, and cream-style corn. Mix well.
- Set your slow cooker to low heat and cover with the lid, allowing it to cook for 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks and stir to incorporate.
- Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, crispy bacon pieces, salt, and pepper. Cover again and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper, and serve hot.
