The Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. With tender, shredded chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, velvety broth, this dish offers everything you want in a cozy meal. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors, making it a perfect set-it-and-forget-it dinner. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd, this chowder is satisfying and filling, with a touch of creamy indulgence.
Whether you’re craving a simple meal after a long day or looking to impress guests with a flavorful dish, this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder has you covered. The corn adds a slight sweetness, while the herbs like thyme and paprika provide a comforting depth of flavor. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to clean up after, leaving you with more time to enjoy the meal with family and friends. Perfect for cold weather or any time you need a warm, comforting dish!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
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6 cups chicken broth
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2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
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1 cup diced potatoes
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1 cup diced carrots
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1 cup diced celery
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1/2 cup diced onion
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
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Directions:
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Layer the Ingredients: Add chicken, chicken broth, corn, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
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Cook the Chowder: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are soft.
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Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the crockpot.
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Thicken the Chowder: In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and flour. Stir the mixture into the soup and cook on high for an additional 20–30 minutes until thickened.
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Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high) | Total Time: 6–7 hours | Kcal: 390 kcal | Servings: 6
Introduction to Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder
Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a dish that embodies warmth, comfort, and the simple joys of home-cooked food. This creamy, hearty chowder features tender chicken, sweet corn, and a velvety broth, making it an ideal choice for cozy family dinners or a satisfying meal to serve a crowd. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease and flexibility. With minimal effort, you can create a delicious, wholesome meal that fills your home with delightful aromas as it slowly simmers in the crockpot.
Slow cooking the ingredients allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, flavorful soup that is both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Its comforting, creamy texture makes it an irresistible dish that appeals to both adults and children alike.
Why Choose Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder?
One of the main reasons people gravitate towards this dish is the convenience of using a crockpot or slow cooker. The crockpot allows you to prepare a hearty, nutritious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Simply toss all the ingredients in the pot, set it, and let the slow cooker do its magic. This is especially useful for busy individuals, working parents, or anyone who simply prefers the hands-off cooking style that a slow cooker provides.
Another key reason this dish is so popular is its versatility. While the ingredients listed in the recipe are standard and create a wonderful flavor base, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Want to add more vegetables for extra nutrition? Feel free to throw in some bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Looking for a gluten-free version? Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch to thicken the chowder. There’s no limit to how you can personalize this dish to meet your needs, making it an excellent go-to recipe for various dietary preferences and restrictions.
The Health Benefits of Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder
Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is more than just a delicious meal; it also provides numerous health benefits. The dish combines lean protein from the chicken, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health, with the nutritional power of vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and celery. These vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium, which contribute to improved immunity, eye health, and heart health.
Additionally, the corn in this chowder provides dietary fiber, which helps regulate digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. The fiber content in corn also helps in managing blood sugar levels, making it a suitable choice for those monitoring their glucose intake. The addition of heavy cream makes the chowder rich and creamy, offering a source of healthy fats that help with brain function and cell repair. While the cream adds a level of indulgence to the dish, it also contributes to the overall satiety and satisfaction that comes with each spoonful of this chowder.
For those looking to boost the nutritional value further, consider swapping out the heavy cream for a lighter option like coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. You can also replace the chicken with lean turkey breast for a lower-fat version without sacrificing flavor.
Perfect for Every Season
While Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is especially comforting during colder months, it can be enjoyed year-round. During fall and winter, the warmth of this dish is the perfect antidote to chilly nights. The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it an ideal dish for cozy gatherings, especially when served with crusty bread or a side salad.
In the warmer months, the beauty of this recipe lies in its ease. Since the slow cooker does all the work, you don’t have to worry about turning on the oven or stove, which can make your kitchen unbearably hot. This is particularly helpful during summer when you want to keep the heat down in your home while still enjoying a filling, comforting meal.
How to Make Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Your Own
While the basic ingredients in this recipe provide a classic and delicious chowder, you can experiment with different flavors and textures to make it your own. Here are a few ideas:
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Add More Vegetables: If you’re looking to increase the veggie content, consider adding parsnips, leeks, or sweet potatoes. These vegetables blend seamlessly into the chowder, adding depth of flavor and extra nutrients.
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Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the chowder an extra kick. A dash of hot sauce can also work wonders if you prefer your chowder with a little more spice.
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Herb Variations: While the recipe calls for thyme, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or basil. These herbs can complement the savory chicken and vegetables, adding a fresh, aromatic quality to the chowder.
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Cheese Lover’s Twist: For a cheesy twist, try adding some shredded cheddar cheese to the chowder in the last few minutes of cooking. The cheese will melt into the creamy broth, making the chowder even richer and more decadent.
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Make it Dairy-Free: To make this chowder dairy-free, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, which will give it a similar creamy texture without the dairy. Additionally, use a non-dairy butter substitute and opt for gluten-free flour if needed.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder
Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it with freshly baked bread, crackers, or a side of green salad to balance out the richness of the chowder. A fresh slice of sourdough bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, soaking up all the delicious broth.
For a more filling meal, serve the chowder with a protein-packed side, such as a chicken or tuna salad, or grilled vegetables. The combination of the creamy chowder with the crunch of fresh veggies or a simple salad provides a satisfying contrast of textures.
How to Store and Reheat Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder
This chowder stores well in the refrigerator, making it an excellent make-ahead option. Once prepared, allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply warm the chowder on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. If the chowder has thickened too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating.
Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prepping. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the chowder overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as mentioned above.
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a recipe that combines comfort, nutrition, and simplicity in a single dish. Its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and rich flavors make it a perfect choice for any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal, a dish to serve at a gathering, or a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly evening, this chowder is sure to satisfy. The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs. From adding extra vegetables to experimenting with different herbs and spices, the possibilities are endless. So, the next time you’re in need of a wholesome, satisfying meal, turn to this classic Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder – it’s the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love.