Easy Chicken Corn Chowder Recipes to Warm You Up

If you are searching for a cozy, heartwarming meal that feels like a gentle hug on a chilly day, look no further than Chicken Corn Chowder. This creamy, comforting dish is packed with tender smoked turkey bacon, fresh garden vegetables, and melty plant-based cheese, creating a delicious balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures. It’s perfect for quiet dinners or sharing with loved ones, offering a bowlful of delight that warms you from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a bowl: The creamy texture and savory flavors make every spoonful satisfying and soothing.
• Simple ingredients: Easily found groceries come together effortlessly to create a nourishing meal.
• Versatile and adaptable: This recipe welcomes substitutions and additions based on your preferences or pantry staples.
• Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser for children and adults alike, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Nutritious boost: Loaded with vegetables and protein for a balanced, wholesome dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple but essential components to build layers of flavor, texture, and color, making your Chicken Corn Chowder both hearty and inviting. Each ingredient plays a key role in turning humble chowder into a stellar meal.

• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds smoky, savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Fresh corn kernels: Brings natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Russet potatoes: Provide creaminess and body to the chowder.
• Onion and celery: These aromatics form the flavorful foundation.
• Garlic cloves: Deliver subtle pungency and warmth.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Enhances umami with a rich, tangy note.
• Chicken broth: Boosts savory flavor and helps meld all ingredients together.
• Plant-based cheese: Melts into a creamy finish with luscious texture.
• Cream (plant-based): Adds silkiness without heaviness.
• Fresh thyme and bay leaf: Offer fragrant herbal hints.
• Natural gelling agent: Used lightly to achieve that perfect thick, velvety consistency.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings to taste, balancing the flavors.

Variations for Chicken Corn Chowder

Customizing your Chicken Corn Chowder is simple and fun. Feel free to experiment with ingredients or swap in seasonal vegetables and different proteins to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of smoked paprika to heat up the flavor profile.
• Green twist: Stir in chopped kale or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Seafood version: Replace chicken with shredded crab or shrimp for a coastal flair.
• Lower carb: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter option.
• Extra creaminess: Mix in a scoop of mashed avocado or additional plant-based cream for richness.

How to Make Chicken Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the base

Start by crisping the smoked turkey bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it releases its smoky aroma and renders its fat. Remove and set aside, keeping the rendered fat in the pot for sautéing vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics

Add diced onion, celery, and minced garlic to the bacon fat. Cook gently until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid browning.

Step 3: Combine potatoes and broth

Stir in diced russet potatoes, fresh corn kernels, thyme sprigs, bay leaf, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, letting the potatoes cook until tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add the chicken and cheese

Once potatoes are soft, fold in shredded cooked chicken, the reserved smoked turkey bacon, and plant-based cheese cubes. Let the cheese melt gently, stirring occasionally to blend smoothly.

Step 5: Finish with cream and seasoning

Lower the heat and stir in the plant-based cream and a small amount of natural gelling agent to achieve a luscious thickness. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste before removing from heat.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Corn Chowder

• Use fresh corn: Whenever possible, fresh corn kernels elevate the sweetness and texture compared to canned or frozen varieties.
• Control the thickness: Adjust the amount of broth and natural gelling agent based on how thick or soupy you prefer your chowder.
• Cook potatoes evenly: Dice potatoes uniformly to ensure they cook through at the same time for consistent texture.
• Layer flavors: Don’t skip the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and fresh herbs as they add essential umami depth.
• Garnish right: Hold back a bit of bacon and herbs for topping to add fresh flavor and texture contrast at serving.

How to Serve Chicken Corn Chowder

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top and a small handful of crispy smoked turkey bacon bits for a pop of color and crunch. A swirl of plant-based cream can add an elegant touch as well.

Side Dishes

Chicken Corn Chowder pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread or warm cornbread, ideal for dipping and soaking up every last drop. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chowder in charming bread bowls for a rustic feel or in mason jars for a portable lunch option. Adding a colorful drizzle of grape juice reduction can surprise your guests with a subtle sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Chicken Corn Chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor integrity.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well transfer cooled chowder into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the chowder gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of plant-based cream or broth if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Absolutely, frozen corn can be a great substitute and will still provide sweetness and texture, especially when fresh corn is out of season.

Is it necessary to use smoked turkey bacon?

While smoked turkey bacon adds a wonderful smoky depth, you can use any crisp bacon or omit it for a lighter version without losing much flavor.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

Omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth; use plant-based cheese and cream, along with your favorite plant protein like tofu or chickpeas to keep it hearty.

What can I use instead of plant-based cheese?

If you prefer, nutritional yeast or a cashew cream sauce works beautifully to add creaminess and cheesy notes without dairy.

Can I prepare this chowder in a slow cooker?

Yes, just add all ingredients except the plant-based cheese and cream, cook on low for 6-8 hours, then stir in the cheese and cream at the end until melted.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Chicken Corn Chowder to lift your spirits and satisfy your cravings on a cool day. Simple to make yet wonderfully rich and comforting, this recipe invites you to cozy up at the table and savor every spoonful. Give it a try and enjoy the heartwarming flavors that only a perfect chowder can bring.

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