Name: Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 6 strips bacon (more for topping if desired); 1 cup yellow onion (diced); 1 cup carrots (diced); 1 cup celery (diced); 2 lbs yellow potato (peeled and cubed); 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts; 12 oz sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 2 tsp kosher salt; 2 tsp garlic powder; 0.5 tsp black pepper; 0.5 tsp sweet paprika; 1 qt chicken broth; 0.5 cup heavy cream

Introduction to Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

What is Chicken Corn Chowder and Why is it Perfect for You?

Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is more than just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl. Imagine a delicious blend of creamy goodness infused with tender chicken, sweet corn, and a medley of vegetables, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. It's an easy dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.

Why should you try this chowder? First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily tailor the ingredients to suit your tastes — whether you prefer regular or turkey bacon, or even want to throw in some spices for an extra kick. Not to mention, the slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a rich and hearty dish without the hassle.

In addition, using a crockpot means minimal prep and cleanup. Just toss everything in, set the timer, and go about your day. As it simmers away, you'll be greeted by warm, savory aromas wafting through your home, which is sure to make mouths water. For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of corn in your diet, check out this Healthline article. Enjoying a bowl of Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is not just a meal; it’s an experience!

Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Creating a comforting Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is simple when you have the right ingredients on hand. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for this warm, delicious meal!

Essential ingredients

To whip up this hearty chowder, gather the following essentials:

6 strips turkey bacon (plus more for topping if desired)
1 cup diced yellow onion
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced celery
2 lbs peeled and cubed yellow potatoes
1 ½ - 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
12 oz sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon sweet paprika
1 quart chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream

Each of these ingredients plays a role in bringing out the rich flavor profile that makes this chowder a crowd-pleaser.

Optional toppings and variations

Feel free to personalize your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder with some delicious toppings and variations:

Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or chives add a nice touch.
Spices: A pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce can spice things up for those who like a kick.
Dairy Alternatives: For a lighter version, consider substituting heavy cream with almond or oat milk.
Cheese: Top with shredded cheddar for extra richness.

Why not get creative? Adjust according to your taste, and don't forget to share how your chowder turned out!

Step-by-step preparation for Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Preparing a hearty bowl of Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a delightful experience, especially when you have a game plan! Let’s dive right into the step-by-step process that’ll make this dish your new go-to comfort food.

Cook the turkey bacon

Start with a bit of sizzle! Cook your turkey bacon in a skillet or pop it in the oven until crispy. This not only brings out the savory flavor but also adds a nice texture to your chowder. Once it's done, let it cool slightly before cutting it into bite-sized pieces. You could also consider using this method for oven-baked turkey bacon, which might save you some cleanup time.

Prepare the vegetables

Next, it’s time to give your vegetables some love. Dice up 1 cup each of yellow onion, carrots, and celery. This trio forms a fantastic base for your chowder, adding layers of flavor. Don’t forget to peel and cube 2 lbs of yellow potatoes – they’ll bring that creamy texture we’re aiming for. As you chop, take a moment to enjoy the fresh smells wafting through your kitchen; after all, cooking can be as much about experience as it is about result!

Assemble the ingredients in the crockpot

Now for the fun part—everything goes into the crockpot! Add the cooked turkey bacon, diced onions, carrots, celery, cubed potatoes, 1 ½ – 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, and 12 oz of sweet corn (whether fresh or frozen, it’s your call!). Season with 2 teaspoon of kosher salt, 2 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of sweet paprika. Don’t forget to pour in 1 quart of chicken broth for that rich flavor! Give everything a good stir and cover.

Cooking time options

Here’s where your scheduling comes into play. You can set your crockpot to cook on low for about 4-6 hours or increase the temperature to high for 2-3 hours. If you’re in a hurry, cooking on high works; just ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, the chicken should shred easily with a couple of forks.

Shred the chicken and blend soup

After your cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot. Shred it using your forks, and set it aside. For that creamy texture, scoop out about ⅓ of the soup and blend it with an immersion blender (or stand blender if you prefer). Then, pour the blended mixture back into the crockpot along with the shredded chicken and ½ cup of heavy cream. This step elevates your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder, giving it a luscious consistency that’s simply irresistible.

With all these steps, you’ll be ready to serve your comforting chowder in no time! Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!

Variations on Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Spicy Chicken Corn Chowder

If you're in the mood for a kick, try adding some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder. This variation perfectly balances the sweetness of the corn with the heat, making it a great choice for a cozy night in. For an extra layer of flavor, incorporate smoked paprika or even a hint of chipotle powder. Your taste buds will thank you!

Vegetarian Corn Chowder Alternative

For a vegetarian twist, simply replace the chicken with hearty plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils. Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and consider adding in your favorite seasonal veggies. This vegetarian corn chowder packs in flavor and nutrients while catering to a plant-based lifestyle. You can even enhance the creamy texture by using coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Exploring these alternatives can make your meal both flexible and delicious!

Cooking tips and notes for Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Tips for perfect texture

To achieve that creamy, comforting texture in your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder, remember to blend a portion of the chowder once the chicken is shredded. This step creates a velvety base that enhances the overall mouthfeel. If you prefer a chunkier dish, blend just a portion or skip the blending altogether. Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning if needed to elevate the flavor.

Cooking with frozen ingredients

Using frozen corn simplifies meal prep and works beautifully in this recipe. It cooks down nicely, blending seamlessly into the chowder. For the chicken, you can also use frozen pieces, but ensure they’re thawed before cooking to allow even heating. This is especially handy for those busy weekdays when you're short on time. Looking for more tips? Check out this great article on cooking with frozen ingredients!

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Ideal Sides and Accompaniments

Enhance your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder experience by pairing it with some delightful sides. Consider:

Crusty Bread: A warm, rustic loaf or sourdough bread is perfect for dipping.
Simple Salad: A light garden salad with a refreshing vinaigrette will balance the chowder's richness.
Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread brings out the corn's sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser.

Garnishing Ideas

Elevate your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder with a few garnishing touches. Here are some ideas:

Turkey Bacon Crumbles: Sprinkle crispy pieces on top for an added crunch.
Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and flavor.
Cheese: A handful of shredded cheddar provides a creamy richness.

These suggestions can transform a comforting chowder into a memorable meal! What are your favorite accompaniments?

Time Breakdown for Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

When you want to whip up a comforting bowl of Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder, timing is key. Here’s a quick rundown of how long it will take you:

Preparation Time

Take about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients, chop your vegetables, and prep the chicken. This is the fun part where you can get creative and maybe even sample a piece of that delicious turkey bacon!

Cooking Time

Set your crockpot to work for 4 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. While you’re waiting, why not use that time to unwind with your favorite podcast or binge-watch a show?

Total Time

In total, you’ll need approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes to have a tasty meal ready to serve. Just imagine the cozy smells filling your home while this chowder cooks!

For more tips on meal prepping, check out this guide on how to streamline your cooking process!

Nutritional Facts for Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

When it comes to comfort food, Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a wholesome choice. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional facts to help you make informed decisions.

Calories

Each serving of this delicious chowder contains approximately 339 calories, making it a satisfying yet light option for dinner.

Protein

With around 26 grams of protein per serving, this chowder offers a hearty dose of protein, thanks to the chicken and Turkey bacon.

Sodium

Be mindful of sodium levels with about 1,040 mg per serving. Tailoring the amount of added salt allows you to enjoy the flavors while managing salt intake for a healthier meal.

For more details on maintaining balanced nutrition while enjoying hearty recipes, consider checking the USDA Food Composition Databases for further insights. This chowder not only warms your soul but provides a nutrient-rich meal perfect for busy weeknights!

FAQs about Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Using chicken thighs in your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder will add a rich flavor and tender texture to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook thoroughly compared to breasts. They also tend to stay juicier, adding depth to your chowder.

How to store and reheat leftovers?

Storing your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a breeze! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. For reheating, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much.

What can I add for more flavor?

Want to amp up the flavor of your chowder? Consider adding:

Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
A splash of lemon juice for brightness
Diced jalapeños for a spicy kick
A sprinkle of smoked paprika for a deeper taste

Experimenting is key—there's no wrong way to enhance this delicious Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder! For more tips on flavor pairings, check out this cooking guide.

Conclusion on Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

In summary, our Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is more than just a meal—it's a cozy experience that brings comfort and warmth to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s nutritious, delicious, and simple to prepare. Give it a try and savor every hearty bowl!