Chicken Chowder Soup Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Chowder Soup is a rich, hearty, and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy base, vegetables, and seasonings for a satisfying meal. With its thick texture, it’s perfect for chilly days when you need something that will warm you from the inside out. It’s the kind of soup that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or even as a special treat during the colder months.

This soup not only brings comforting flavors but also combines the hearty goodness of chicken with vegetables like corn, potatoes, and carrots, creating a well-balanced dish that fills you up without being too heavy. Chicken chowder offers versatility, and you can adjust it to suit your preferences by adding different veggies or seasonings. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll guide you step by step on how to make the perfect Chicken Chowder Soup that will not only delight your taste buds but also become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the world of creamy, satisfying, and delicious chicken chowder.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Chowder Soup

• Comforting and Hearty: This soup has a creamy, rich texture that makes it a perfect comfort food. It’s a great meal to warm you up on a cold day or when you’re craving something fulfilling.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with chicken, potatoes, corn, and other vegetables, chicken chowder is a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. It provides all the necessary nutrients to fuel your day.
• Easy to Make: Despite its indulgent taste, chicken chowder is simple to prepare. You don’t need complicated ingredients or techniques. It’s a straightforward recipe that you can cook up in no time.
• Customizable: The beauty of chicken chowder lies in its flexibility. You can tweak the ingredients based on what you have at home. Whether you prefer it spicier, creamier, or with more vegetables, this soup is highly adaptable.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge for a few days and can be frozen for longer storage. Making a big batch means you’ll have leftovers for easy meals later on.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings (depending on portion size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 4-5g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Chowder Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels (or fresh corn, if available)
• 1-2 chicken breasts or thighs (about 1 pound), boneless and skinless
• 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
• 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer version)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for added richness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup heavy cream (for a richer chowder)
• 1-2 cups cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a little heat)
• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale (for added greens)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken, which will form the base of the chowder. If you are using whole chicken breasts or thighs, you can cook them in one of two ways: poaching or pan-frying.

• Poaching Method: In a large pot, add the chicken breasts (or thighs) and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the chicken simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool slightly, and then shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.
• Pan-Frying Method: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts or thighs and cook for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan, let it rest, and then chop it into cubes.

Once your chicken is cooked, set it aside for later.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Next, add the diced potatoes, carrots, and corn to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly. This helps to develop the flavors before adding the broth.

3. Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the dried thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.

If the soup starts to look too thick, you can add a little bit of water or extra broth to reach your desired consistency. Make sure to taste the soup during this time and adjust the seasonings as needed. Adding more salt, pepper, or herbs can help enhance the flavor.

4. Thicken the Soup (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can thicken the soup with a roux (a mixture of flour and fat). In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of flour. Whisk it together until it forms a smooth paste, cooking it for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Gradually add the flour mixture into the simmering soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Let the soup continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until it thickens to your liking. Alternatively, you can use a hand blender to puree a portion of the soup and make it naturally thicker.

5. Add the Chicken and Milk

Once the vegetables are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking, add the shredded or chopped chicken back into the pot. Stir well to combine.

Pour in the milk (or cream, if you prefer a richer chowder). Stir the soup and continue to simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing everything to heat through. If you’re using heavy cream, the soup will become even richer and creamier, making for an extra indulgent dish.

6. Adjust the Seasonings

Taste the soup again and adjust the seasonings. Add more salt, pepper, or paprika if necessary. If you like a little spice, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the soup a subtle heat. If the soup is too thick, add a little more milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency.

7. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese on top or serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Chowder Soup

• Use a Rotisserie Chicken: If you want to save time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup at the end. This will save you the step of cooking the chicken and add extra flavor to the chowder.
• Enhance the Flavor with Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add a fragrant, flavorful dimension to your soup. If you have fresh herbs, use them instead of dried herbs to elevate the taste.
• Use Russet Potatoes for Creaminess: Russet potatoes are ideal for chowders because they break down and release starch into the soup, making it naturally thick and creamy. If you prefer a lighter chowder, you can substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes.
• Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like celery, spinach, peas, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrients. You can also experiment with different types of beans, like cannellini or navy beans, to make the chowder even heartier.
• Add Bacon for Extra Flavor: Crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken chowder. Fry up some bacon and sprinkle it on top of the soup before serving for an extra touch of deliciousness.

Variations of Chicken Chowder Soup

• Spicy Chicken Chowder: Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or some chopped chili peppers to the soup to give it a spicy kick. You can also stir in some hot sauce or sriracha for added heat.
• Creamy Chicken and Bacon Chowder: For an indulgent variation, add crispy bacon pieces to the chowder. The smokiness of the bacon complements the creamy base of the soup beautifully.
• Vegetarian Chicken Chowder: Skip the chicken and use plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, or simply add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or cauliflower for a vegetarian-friendly chowder.
• Seafood Chicken Chowder: Replace the chicken with shrimp, crab, or other seafood for a different twist. This variation pairs well with some Old Bay seasoning for an extra burst of flavor.
• Low-Carb Chicken Chowder: To make a low-carb version, omit the potatoes and replace them with cauliflower. You can also skip the milk and use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken chowder soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. To reheat, simply warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick after refrigerating, you can add a little more broth or milk to loosen it up.

For longer storage, you can freeze chicken chowder for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it on the stovetop.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Chowder Soup

Chicken chowder pairs well with a variety of sides:

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy chowder.
• Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the chowder.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A grilled cheese sandwich makes for a comforting, indulgent side to complement the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes, provide additional nutrients and flavors to balance out the rich chowder.

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Conclusion

Chicken Chowder Soup is the epitome of comfort food. With its creamy texture, hearty vegetables, and tender chicken, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, enjoying it for lunch, or making a big batch for meal prep, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul.

By following this simple recipe and adding your personal touch, you can create a flavorful, filling chicken chowder that will become a family favorite. With its flexibility and delicious results, chicken chowder is sure to become a staple in your kitchen for years to come. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking—you won’t regret it!