As the sun dips below the horizon and a chill fills the air, I find myself craving something warm and hearty. Enter my Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder—a soothing bowl of comfort food that beautifully combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and hearty potatoes in a luscious broth. Perfect for those busy weeknights, this foolproof recipe is not only hassle-free but also a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its “set it and forget it” approach, you can spend more time enjoying precious moments with loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen. What delightful surprises will you uncover when you create this comforting dish?
Why is Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Perfect?
Comforting Warmth: This chowder brings warmth to your table, ideal for chilly nights.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of chicken, sweet corn, and potatoes creates a rich, savory experience.
Easy Preparation: Simply toss in ingredients, set the slow cooker, and relax while deliciousness simmers.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for families or gatherings—everyone will love this hearty dish! Serve it alongside cornbread, and you have a meal sure to impress. If you’re looking for more easy recipes, check out my Crockpot Chicken Nachos or Lazy Chicken Parmesan.
Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Ingredients
• Get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of slow cooker chicken corn chowder!
For the Chowder
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken is best for easy shredding.
- Chicken Broth – Enhances flavor; swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Diced Potatoes – Yukon Gold or red potatoes add substantial heartiness.
- Green Chiles – Offers a mild heat; substitute with bell peppers for a gentler taste.
- Diced Onion – Yellow onions provide natural sweetness; shallots can be milder.
- Cream-Style Corn – Adds creamy texture and sweetness; canned corn can be used, though more cream may be needed.
- Heavy Cream – Thickens the chowder, but you can opt for half-and-half for a lighter touch.
- Garlic Powder – Convenient flavor booster; fresh garlic can be substituted for a burst of freshness.
- Crispy Bacon Pieces – Brings smokiness and crunch; consider turkey bacon for a healthier twist.
- Salt and Pepper – Season to taste, enhancing all the wonderful flavors.
For Serving
- Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle on top adds color and freshness.
- Cracked Black Pepper – A final touch that enhances flavor just before serving.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re just moments away from creating this hearty, slow cooker chicken corn chowder that embodies comfort in every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In your slow cooker, place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts along with the chicken broth, diced potatoes, green chiles, diced onion, and cream-style corn. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are mixed together evenly, creating a colorful base. This hearty blend sets the stage for your delicious slow cooker chicken corn chowder.
Step 2: Cook
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the chowder to cook for 4 hours. During this time, the chicken will tenderize beautifully, and the flavors will meld into a rich, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. After 4 hours, the chowder should be bubbling gently, indicating it’s time for the next step.
Step 3: Shred Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid, and using two forks, shred the chicken right in the pot. The chicken should be tender and easy to pull apart. Stir the shredded chicken back into the chowder, allowing it to blend with the other ingredients and create that comforting, creamy texture.
Step 4: Add Cream & Seasonings
Next, stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, and crispy bacon pieces. Add salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a well-balanced flavor profile for the chowder. Cover the slow cooker again, and let it simmer for an additional 15 to 20 minutes on low heat to thicken up the chowder and meld the flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Serve
Once the chowder has thickened to your liking, ladle it into warm bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a light dusting of cracked black pepper for an extra touch of flavor. Serve your comforting creamy slow cooker chicken corn chowder hot, and enjoy the delightful warmth it brings to your dining table.
Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting chowder; the possibilities are endless!
Turkey Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey for a delicious post-holiday repurposing. The flavors meld beautifully, making this chowder even more robust.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and chicken with hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. This alternative keeps the dish vibrant and full of flavor.
Frozen Corn Magic: Opt for frozen corn instead of fresh; it retains its sweetness and texture without any prep work. Just toss it straight into the slow cooker!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost. These flavors beautifully complement the creamy broth, making it feel like a warm embrace.
Creamier Bliss: For a truly decadent chowder, incorporate an extra splash of heavy cream or blend in some cream cheese. This creates an extra-luxurious consistency that’ll leave everyone wanting more.
Spice It Up: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for an exciting kick. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat with their comfort food.
Seasonal Veggies: Toss in other vegetables such as diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. These not only enhance nutrition but also add delightful texture and color.
Bacon Alternatives: If you’re looking to reduce fat, switch regular bacon for turkey bacon or even omit it entirely. You’ll still have a rich and satisfying ladle of chowder.
As you explore these variations, you might find a new family favorite tucked away in your recipe box. For more delicious meal ideas, check out my Korean Fire Chicken or classic Homemade Popcorn Chicken. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Make Ahead Options
Busy home cooks will appreciate how easy it is to prepare this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder ahead of time! You can chop the vegetables and combine them (potatoes, green chiles, onion) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The chicken can be added directly to the slow cooker with the broth the day of cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting chowder, just follow the same cooking instructions, adding the cream and seasonings in the final steps. This not only saves time during busy weeknights but ensures a delicious meal that’s just as comforting after prepped ahead!
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll have comforting chowder ready for quick reheating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chowder for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some room for expansion when you package it.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding extra broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Make-Ahead Tip: Consider making a double batch of this slow cooker chicken corn chowder; it’s perfect for quick weeknight meals and works wonderfully to share with friends!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Thicker Chowder: For an extra creamy consistency, mash a few potatoes in the chowder or incorporate a cornstarch slurry just before serving.
Monitor Cooking Time: Be cautious not to overcook the chicken, as this can lead to dryness. Set the timer, and remember—it’s a “set it and forget it” style but still keep an eye on it!
Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. They not only enhance nutrition but also provide delightful variations in texture and flavor.
Bacon Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter version, swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon or even skip it altogether—it will still taste amazing!
Seasoning Wisely: Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s hard to take away if it’s too salty!
By following these tips, you’ll create the best Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder that your family will love!
What to Serve with Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
As the creamy chowder simmers, let your imagination wander to a complete meal that will weave together delightful flavors and textures.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crusty exterior provides a satisfying contrast to the rich depth of the chowder.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, these muffins accentuate the chowder’s sweet corn flavors while adding a hint of nostalgia.
Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens and vibrant veggies brightened with a zesty vinaigrette lend freshness and balance to the meal, cutting through the creaminess.
Garlic Breadsticks: Buttery and fragrant, they’re the ideal companion for offering that comforting crunch alongside your chowder.
Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side packed with vitamins, the slight bitterness complements the chowder’s sweetness, creating a balanced plate.
Apple Crisp: End on a sweet note with warm apple crisp, as its cinnamon-spiced flavors and tender fruit harmonize beautifully with the creamy chowder.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass adds a touch of elegance, with its crisp acidity cutting through the chowder’s richness, enhancing your dining experience.
Classic Lemonade: Refreshing and sweet, a glass of homemade lemonade offers a delightful contrast, making every bite of chowder sing!
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for this chowder?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for their tenderness and ease of shredding. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
How do I store leftover chowder?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to enjoy comforting meals quickly without any fuss. Just give it a gentle stir and reheat on the stove before serving.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder?
Yes, you can! Freeze the chowder in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion. When ready to enjoy again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding additional broth if needed to restore creaminess.
What can I do if my chowder is too thick?
If your chowder has thickened more than you’d like, no worries! Just stir in a little chicken broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency. It’s a great way to adjust without losing flavor.
Can I make this chowder vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken with a protein like tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delightful vegetarian version. You can also add other veggies to enhance the flavors and textures.
Is this dish pet-friendly?
It’s great to ask! While the ingredients in this chowder are generally safe, avoid giving your pets any seasoned portions, especially those with garlic. Always consult your vet before sharing human food with pets to be on the safe side.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: chicken breasts, chicken broth, diced potatoes, green chiles, diced onion, and cream-style corn. Stir well.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, shred the chicken in the pot using two forks, stirring it back into the chowder.
- Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, and crispy bacon pieces. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper, and serve hot.