Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe

Introduction

Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a hearty, creamy, and comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This soup is packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, and a rich, velvety broth that comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker. The crockpot method allows all the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day, making it the perfect go-to meal for busy schedules.

The creamy, savory broth and the combination of vegetables make this chowder both filling and flavorful, while the tender chicken adds protein and substance. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a cozy gathering, or meal prepping for the week, Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is sure to be a hit.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps to prepare this mouthwatering chowder, along with helpful tips and tricks to make sure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

• Convenient and Easy: The slow cooker does all the work for you, making this a hassle-free dish that requires minimal prep time. Simply add the ingredients and let the crockpot work its magic.
• Creamy and Comforting: The chowder is rich and creamy, with the perfect balance of sweetness from the corn and savory depth from the chicken and broth. It’s the ideal comfort food for any occasion.
• Versatile: This recipe is easily customizable to your preferences. You can add more vegetables, switch up the type of protein, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean chicken, fiber-rich corn, and hearty vegetables, this chowder is a wholesome option that’s full of nutrients while still feeling indulgent.
• Great for Leftovers: Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder stores beautifully in the fridge and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers the next day.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (including slow cooking)
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 hours (on low)
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a richer flavor)
• 4 cups frozen corn kernels (or fresh corn off the cob if preferred)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Special Equipment

The equipment needed for this recipe is minimal, but a few tools will make the process easier:

1. Slow Cooker (Crockpot): This is the essential piece of equipment for this recipe. A 4 to 6-quart slow cooker is ideal, providing ample space for all the ingredients to cook evenly.
2. Large Sauté Pan: While the slow cooker does most of the work, it’s helpful to sauté the onions, garlic, and carrots beforehand to bring out their flavors before adding them to the crockpot. A large sauté pan works well for this.
3. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for dicing the vegetables and chicken evenly. This ensures they cook at the same rate in the crockpot and contribute to the consistency of the chowder.
4. Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board will provide a safe and stable surface for chopping your vegetables and chicken.
5. Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the chowder into bowls, ensuring each portion is evenly distributed.
6. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements for ingredients like the broth, milk, cream, and spices will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Start by dicing the boneless, skinless chicken into bite-sized cubes. Set the chicken aside. Next, peel and dice the carrots and potatoes, and chop the onion and garlic. These vegetables will form the base of your chowder and infuse the broth with flavor as they cook.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and carrots. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Sautéing these vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker helps to release their flavors, making the chowder even more delicious.

3. Transfer to the Crockpot

Once the vegetables are sautéed, transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the diced potatoes, frozen corn, and diced chicken breast (or thighs). These ingredients will cook together in the slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Add the Liquids and Spices

Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth, followed by the 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are well coated with the liquid. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper, and stir again to combine. The seasoning will infuse the chowder as it cooks, giving it a rich and flavorful taste.

5. Cook the Chowder

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender, the vegetables to soften, and the flavors to deepen. Stir the chowder occasionally if possible, but it’s not essential, as the crockpot does most of the work.

6. Thicken the Chowder (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can use a simple technique to thicken the broth. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour with a little bit of milk (about 1/4 cup) until smooth. Once the chowder has finished cooking, stir the flour mixture into the crockpot, and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes to allow the chowder to thicken. Alternatively, you can use a potato masher to gently mash some of the potatoes in the chowder for a thicker texture.

7. Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Before serving, taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or thyme depending on your preference. Stir the chowder well to ensure that all the seasoning is evenly distributed.

8. Serve

Once the chowder is finished cooking, ladle it into bowls. If desired, garnish with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for a touch of color and extra flavor. Serve the chowder hot, with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

• Use Frozen Corn: Frozen corn is convenient and works perfectly in this recipe, providing a sweet and consistent flavor. However, if fresh corn is in season, feel free to use it instead. Simply cut the kernels off the cob and add them to the crockpot.
• Add Extra Veggies: If you want to increase the vegetable content, consider adding celery, bell peppers, or even some leafy greens like spinach. These additions will enhance the flavor and nutrition of the chowder.
• Swap the Chicken for Turkey: If you have leftover turkey from a holiday meal, it can be swapped in place of chicken. The turkey will add a slightly different flavor but still work beautifully in this chowder.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version of this chowder, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk in place of the heavy cream. The chowder will still be creamy but less rich.
• Add Heat: For a spicier version of this chowder, you can add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the broth. The heat will add an exciting kick to the otherwise mild soup.
• Use Chicken Thighs for More Flavor: While chicken breasts work great, chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and stay more tender throughout the slow cooking process. You can easily substitute chicken thighs for the breasts in this recipe.

Variations of Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

• Vegetarian Corn Chowder: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a vegetarian version of this chowder. You can add extra vegetables such as zucchini, squash, or mushrooms to make the soup more filling.
• Spicy Chicken Corn Chowder: To make the chowder spicier, add diced green chilies, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce. This will bring a nice heat and contrast to the sweetness of the corn.
• Crockpot Chicken Bacon Corn Chowder: For a smoky and savory twist, consider adding cooked bacon to the chowder. The bacon adds depth of flavor and a bit of crunch, making the chowder even more delicious.
• Creamy Coconut Corn Chowder: For a dairy-free version of this chowder, swap the milk and cream for coconut milk. The coconut milk will give the chowder a subtle tropical flavor while maintaining the creamy texture.

Storage and Shelf Life

Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, so it’s even better the next day. If you want to store it longer, the chowder can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the chowder cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of warm, crusty bread is the perfect accompaniment to this chowder. Use it to dip into the creamy broth and savor every bite.
• Cheese Biscuits: If you’re craving something extra comforting, serve the chowder with fluffy cheese biscuits. The rich, cheesy flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy corn chowder.
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the chowder. The salad helps balance the meal and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: If you want to make the meal more filling, roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts would be a great side dish to serve alongside the chowder.

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Conclusion

Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, offering a deliciously creamy, savory soup that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and the convenience of the slow cooker, this dish comes together effortlessly and delivers hearty, satisfying results every time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this chowder is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting texture of this soup—it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.