Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe
If you’ve ever craved a bowl that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe. Packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, and a velvety broth, this chowder balances heartiness and comfort in every spoonful. Whether you’re aiming to whip up a quick weeknight dinner or to impress friends with something cozy and satisfying, this recipe has all the soul and flavor you need to make your kitchen shine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully to create depth and richness. Each component plays a vital role—from the sweetness of the corn to the aromatic veggies and creamy base, making the dish a delight for both your taste buds and your eyes.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Provides a luscious base and brings everything to life with its rich, creamy texture.
- 1 white or yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and savory depth when sautéed.
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped: Offers a pop of vibrant color and a gentle sweetness that complements the corn perfectly.
- ¼ cup thinly sliced celery: Brings a slight crunch and fresh, herby undertones.
- 2 (14 oz) cans cream-style corn (do not drain): The star ingredient adding natural sweetness and creamy consistency.
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed: Brings protein and a tender, savory bite to every spoonful.
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk: Creates that silky, creamy chowder texture without being too heavy.
- 1 teaspoon chicken base, bouillon cube, or granules: Intensifies the savory chicken flavor for a robust finish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and balances the sweetness of the corn and peppers.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by melting butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat—this will infuse your chowder with a rich, buttery flavor. Then add the finely chopped onion, celery, and red bell pepper. Let them cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are soft and tender. This step is crucial for building the base flavor that makes this chowder so irresistible.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
Once your veggies are perfectly softened, stir in the cream-style corn (with its liquid), shredded chicken, and evaporated milk. This is where the magic starts—you’ll see the broth begin to take shape into that signature creamy, hearty texture. Add in the chicken base and a pinch of black pepper to balance the flavors.
Step 3: Heat Through Without Boiling
Lower the heat to medium or medium-low and gently warm your chowder, stirring occasionally. Allow it to heat through for about 5 to 10 minutes, making sure it doesn’t reach a boil. This careful warming helps the flavors meld beautifully without curdling the milk. Your creamy chicken corn chowder is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a refreshing touch and a burst of color that brightens this creamy dish. Crumbled crispy bacon or a handful of shredded sharp cheddar cheese are also fantastic for an extra pop of flavor and texture. Don’t underestimate the power of a drizzle of chili oil or a squeeze of lime for a subtle zing—totally optional but delicious.
Side Dishes
This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or buttery garlic toast—you’ll want something to dip into that luscious broth. A simple mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chowder perfectly and brings a fresh balance to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe in hollowed-out rustic bread bowls for a charming, cozy presentation that’s totally Instagram-worthy. You can also portion it into small mason jars for a casual, grab-and-go lunch, or add a handful of crispy fried onions on top for a delightful crunch. Playing with textures and presentation makes enjoying this chowder an even more special experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer your chowder to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, maintaining that creamy texture and rich flavor as the ingredients meld further overnight. Leftovers make for a quick and hearty lunch or dinner.
Freezing
You can freeze this chowder, but be mindful that the texture might slightly change since dairy can separate. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your creamy chicken corn chowder on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking or burning. Add a splash of milk or water if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving as it may heat unevenly and affect the creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned cream-style corn?
Absolutely! Fresh corn adds a bright, slightly crisp texture. You can blend some of the kernels with a bit of cream or milk to mimic the cream-style consistency, then add whole kernels for texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep because it stores well and reheats easily. Just be careful when reheating to keep the creamy texture intact.
Can I use other types of cooked meat instead of chicken?
Definitely! Turkey, ham, or even cooked sausage would be delicious alternatives, adding interesting flavors while keeping that comforting chowder feel.
How can I make this chowder spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños with the sautéed vegetables or sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. Hot sauce at the table is also a quick fix.
What can I do to make the chowder thicker?
If you prefer a thicker chowder, mix 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour or cornstarch with a little cold water to form a slurry and stir it in during the heating step. Cook a few minutes more until it thickens to your liking.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, comfort, and pure deliciousness to your table with very little fuss. It’s an easy way to elevate simple ingredients into something memorable and soul-soothing. I absolutely encourage you to try making it soon—you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again, especially on chillier days when you crave that perfect bowl of comfort.
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Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder is a comforting and flavorful soup made with tender chicken, sweet cream-style corn, and a medley of sautéed vegetables. Perfect for a cozy meal, it combines creamy evaporated milk and savory chicken bouillon to create a rich and satisfying chowder that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 white or yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- ¼ cup thinly sliced celery
Main Ingredients
- 2 (14 oz) cans cream-style corn (do not drain)
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon chicken base, bouillon cube, or granules
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large soup pot or saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook the vegetables for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and fragrant.
- Add Main Ingredients and Heat Through: Stir in the cream-style corn (with juice), cooked shredded or cubed chicken, evaporated milk, chicken bouillon, and black pepper. Continue to heat the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Be careful to reduce the heat if needed and avoid bringing the chowder to a boil to maintain its creamy texture.
Notes
- Do not drain the cream-style corn as the liquid adds to the chowder’s creamy texture.
- Use cooked chicken from leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust seasoning with salt if needed, as chicken bouillon can be salty.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
