How to Make Chicken Corn Chowder – Simple & Hearty Recipe

Learn how to make a creamy, hearty chicken corn chowder in just 30 minutes! This easy one-pot recipe is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prep.

When the weather turns chilly, nothing beats a bowl of warm, comforting soup. This chicken corn chowder recipe is one of our go-to comfort meals that brings the whole family to the table. Creamy, filling, and made with everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, this hearty chowder comes together in just 30 minutes. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, and perfectly seasoned broth creates a satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning your weekly meal prep, this easy chicken corn chowder delivers on flavor and convenience every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe

This chicken corn chowder recipe checks all the boxes for busy home cooks and soup enthusiasts alike. The one-pot preparation means minimal cleanup after dinner, while the simple ingredient list keeps grocery shopping stress-free. Families love how kid-friendly and filling this recipe is, making it perfect for satisfying hungry appetites on cold evenings. The chowder stores beautifully in the refrigerator, creating excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day. Plus, with naturally gluten-free options available by simply omitting the flour thickener, this recipe accommodates various dietary needs without sacrificing the rich, creamy texture everyone craves.

Ingredients for Chicken Corn Chowder

Gather these simple ingredients to create your perfect bowl of chicken corn chowder:

  • 2 pounds chicken breast or thighs (cooked and shredded, or use rotisserie chicken)
  • 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
  • 3 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
  • 1 large onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 celery stalks (diced)
  • 6 strips bacon (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for lighter version)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
chicken corn chowder recipe

How to Make Chicken Corn Chowder – Step by Step

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect chicken corn chowder recipe:

  1. Cook the bacon (if using) in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  2. Sauté the aromatics by adding onion, garlic, and celery to the bacon drippings (or heat olive oil if not using bacon). Cook for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
  3. Create the roux by sprinkling flour over the vegetables and stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
  4. Add broth and potatoes gradually, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12-15 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
  5. Stir in chicken and corn, cooking for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld together.
  6. Add cream and seasonings by slowly stirring in the heavy cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling.
  7. Simmer until thickened, about 3-5 minutes, until the chowder reaches your desired consistency.
  8. Serve immediately topped with crispy bacon pieces, chopped scallions, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs as desired.
chicken corn chowder recipe
chicken corn chowder recipe

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Corn Chowder

Transform your chicken corn chowder from good to absolutely incredible with these professional tips. Using rotisserie chicken saves significant prep time while adding deep, roasted flavors to your soup base. For an extra creamy texture without additional dairy, blend about one cup of the finished chowder and stir it back into the pot – this creates natural thickness while maintaining chunky texture. Heat enthusiasts can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños during the sautéing stage for a subtle kick. If you want restaurant-quality richness, stir in a handful of sharp cheddar or cream cheese during the final minutes of cooking. Always taste and adjust seasonings at the end, as flavors concentrate during the simmering process.

Recipe Variations

Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe

Place all ingredients except cream and flour in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Mix flour with a small amount of cream to create a slurry, then stir into the chowder during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Healthy or Lightened-Up Version

Substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk or Greek yogurt stirred in at the end. Use lean chicken breast and skip the bacon, adding smoked paprika for depth of flavor instead.

Spicy Chicken Corn Chowder

Add diced jalapeños with the aromatics and include a teaspoon of chipotle powder or hot sauce to taste. Top with pepper jack cheese and fresh cilantro.

Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Option

Replace flour with cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with cold water) and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. The result is equally creamy and delicious.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Your chicken corn chowder will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep and quick lunches. For freezer storage, omit the cream before freezing and store for up to 3 months – add fresh cream when reheating for the best texture and flavor. When reheating refrigerated chowder, use the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but stir every 30 seconds to ensure even warming and prevent the cream from separating.

chicken corn chowder recipe
chicken corn chowder recipe

Serving Suggestions

Complete your chicken corn chowder meal with these perfect accompaniments. Crusty sourdough bread or warm dinner rolls provide the ideal vehicle for soaking up every last drop of creamy broth. A simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully, while classic cornbread muffins complement the corn flavors in the soup. For a heartier presentation, serve over baked potatoes or alongside grilled cheese sandwiches for the ultimate comfort food combination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze chicken corn chowder?

Yes, but omit the cream before freezing. Dairy-based soups can separate when frozen and thawed. Add fresh cream when reheating for the best texture and taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chicken corn chowder recipe actually improves in flavor when made a day ahead. Store in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving, adding extra broth if needed.

How can I thicken the chowder without cream?

Create a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) or blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in. You can also mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot.

Can I make this chicken corn chowder recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, cashew cream, or your favorite plant-based milk alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but equally delicious.

Printable Recipe Card

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8 bowls

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs cooked chicken, shredded
  • 4 cups corn kernels
  • 3 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 6 strips bacon (optional)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Cook bacon until crispy, set aside
  2. Sauté onion, garlic, and celery in bacon drippings
  3. Add flour, cook 1-2 minutes
  4. Gradually add broth and potatoes, simmer 12-15 minutes
  5. Add chicken and corn, cook 5 minutes
  6. Stir in cream and seasonings
  7. Simmer until thickened, 3-5 minutes
  8. Serve with desired toppings

Notes: For gluten-free version, substitute cornstarch for flour. Recipe keeps in fridge 3-4 days.

More Comfort Food Recipes

If you loved this chicken corn chowder recipe, you’ll want to try these other warming soup favorites:

Share Your Chicken Corn Chowder Success!

Did you try this chicken corn chowder recipe? We’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a star rating and comment below to help other home cooks, and don’t forget to snap a photo for Instagram – tag us so we can see your delicious creation. For more comforting recipes delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our weekly newsletter and never miss a new family favorite. Save this recipe to Pinterest so you can find it easily when those chilly soup cravings hit!

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Anna
Anna

I’m Anna, a passionate cook and the heart behind this blog. At 38 years old, I’ve spent years perfecting the art of cooking, with a special focus on meat recipes and baking. I believe food has the power to bring people together, and there's nothing quite like the joy of sharing a homemade dish, whether it's a savory meat feast or a sweet, fresh-baked treat.

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