This Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is warm, creamy, and full of sweet corn and tender chicken. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly night!
I love how I can just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic while I relax. Plus, leftovers feel like a tasty bonus the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this chowder, as they’re easy to shred. Thighs can be used for a richer flavor, or you could use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Corn: Frozen corn works perfectly here for convenience. If fresh corn is in season, you could use that as well. Just cut the kernels off the cob and toss them in!
Heavy Cream/Half-and-Half: I love using heavy cream for a rich texture, but half-and-half can make it lighter. For a lower-fat option, consider using whole milk or even coconut milk for a different twist.
Vegetables: You can swap out the carrots and celery for your favorite veggies. Bell peppers or zucchini are tasty alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Chowder?
Building flavor is key to a delicious chowder. Here’s how you can make sure your chowder is packed with taste:
- Start by sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery in a pan with a bit of butter before adding them to the crockpot. This adds depth of flavor.
- Adding garlic at the last minute before cooking keeps its fresh taste instead of losing it in long cooking.
- Season well! Make sure to taste before serving so you can adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cups frozen corn kernels
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup diced potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chowder takes about 15 minutes of prep time. If you cook it on low, it’ll be ready in about 6-7 hours. If you’re in a hurry, cooking it on high will take around 3-4 hours. It’s super easy to set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Veggies:
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Then, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, garlic, corn, and potatoes on top of the chicken. You want all these lovely ingredients to sit together!
2. Add Flavors:
Next, pour in the chicken broth. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, smoked paprika, and add salt and pepper to your taste. These spices will give the chowder a lovely aromatic flavor as it cooks.
3. Cook the Chowder:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just let it do its thing until the chicken is cooked through, and the vegetables are tender. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
4. Shred the Chicken:
After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the crockpot. This makes every spoonful deliciously hearty!
5. Add Creaminess:
Stir in the butter and heavy cream (or half-and-half) until fully combined. If you’re feeling cheesy, now’s the time to add in that optional shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s all melted and creamy.
6. Final Touches:
Taste your chowder and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chowder hot, along with some crusty bread or crackers for dipping. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious bowl of chicken corn chowder!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking for even cooking. If you’re using fresh, cooking times remain the same, but check for doneness to ensure it’s cooked through.
Can I Make This Chowder Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chowder and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before cooking. Just combine all the ingredients in the crockpot and refrigerate until you’re ready to start cooking!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chowder for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with This Chowder?
This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with cornbread for a deliciously comforting meal!
