Introduction to Chicken Corn Chowder
Chicken Corn Chowder is a delightful comfort food that’s perfect for young professionals looking to whip up something delicious yet simple after a long day. This creamy, hearty soup not only warms you up but also fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Imagine coming home to the irresistible scent of sautéing Turkey Bacon and fresh vegetables—it’s pure bliss!
Why is this chowder ideal for your busy lifestyle? First off, it packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort. Utilizing staples like chicken, sweet corn, and a variety of vegetables, it’s a one-pot meal that keeps cooking and cleaning hassle-free. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find and budget-friendly, making it a great choice for any young professional keen to eat healthy without breaking the bank.
Furthermore, Chicken Corn Chowder offers versatility. You can customize it with toppings like cheesy goodness, spicy jalapeños, or crunchy crackers—whatever suits your mood! It’s a meal that can seamlessly transition from a cozy dinner to meal prep for lunches throughout the week. So, grab your favorite pot and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
For tips on mastering basic cooking skills, check out these essential cooking techniques that every young professional should know.
Ingredients for Chicken Corn Chowder
Key Ingredients for a Flavorful Chowder
To create a delicious Chicken Corn Chowder, you'll need a mix of fresh and pantry staples. Here’s what to gather:
- Turkey Bacon: This adds a smoky flavor, bringing depth and savoriness to your chowder. You could also opt for traditional bacon if you prefer.
- Butter: Unsalted butter helps in sautéing veggies to bring out their sweetness.
- Vegetables: Fresh onions, red peppers, jalapeños, and garlic provide a flavorful base.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs offer protein and tenderness.
- Corn: Sweet corn (fresh, frozen, or canned) gives the chowder its name and sweetness.
- Dairy: Whole milk and heavy cream create a rich and creamy texture.
- Potatoes: Gold or russet potatoes add heartiness and help to thicken the chowder.
Optional Toppings for Extra Flavor
Toppings can elevate your dish even further! Consider these options to customize your Chicken Corn Chowder:
- Corn Chips or Fritos: A crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
- Scallions or Green Onions: Freshness and a light onion flavor.
- Jalapeño Slices: For those who like a spicy kick.
- Cilantro: A burst of fresh herbaceousness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully, adding richness.
Feel free to mix and match based on your personal preferences! With these ingredients, you can create an inviting chowder that's perfect for any occasion.
Preparing Chicken Corn Chowder
Making a flavorful Chicken Corn Chowder from scratch may sound daunting, but the truth is, it’s quite easy and fun! Follow these steps, and you’ll be savoring a warming bowl before you know it.
Cook the Turkey Bacon
Start by placing your turkey bacon pieces in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook them until they’re nice and crispy—this process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll love the smoky aroma that fills your kitchen! Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot. This bacon will add a touch of irresistible flavor to our chowder.
Sauté the Vegetables
With the turkey bacon goodness still in your pot, toss in 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt and then add 1 diced medium yellow onion, 1 diced red pepper, and a tablespoon of diced jalapeño. Cook these veggies for about 5 minutes until they’re softened, stirring occasionally. The combination of the onions and peppers begins to build a wonderful base for your Chicken Corn Chowder! In the last 30 seconds, stir in 1.5 tablespoons of minced garlic for an aromatic boost.
Create the Base with Flour and Spices
Once your vegetables are fragrant and softened, it’s time to sprinkle in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour along with 1 teaspoon of table salt, ¾ teaspoon of ground black pepper, ¾ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon of dry ground mustard. Stir everything until the flour is fully absorbed and lightly toasted—this will help to thicken your chowder beautifully.
Add Liquids and Chicken to the Pot
Now, whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of water (if you want an extra punch of flavor, you could add another cup of chicken broth instead). Next, pour in 1 cup each of whole milk and heavy cream for richness, and then toss in 1 pound of diced Gold potatoes and 1 pound of raw boneless skinless chicken breast (or a mix of breast and thighs). Finally, add 2.5 cups of sweet corn. Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.
Purée the Soup and Mix Ingredients
Once everything is cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred or dice it. Set it aside while you purée about half of the soup using an immersion blender—this adds a creamy texture while retaining some chunky goodness! Then stir the shredded chicken back into the pot along with your crispy bacon. Trust me: the flavor of the turkey bacon is essential!
Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Before serving your delicious Chicken Corn Chowder, taste it and adjust any seasonings if needed—sometimes a pinch more salt can work wonders! Ladle the chowder into bowls and feel free to top it with your favorites, like scallions, cilantro, or even some shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy your wholesome and comforting meal that’s sure to impress!
Variations on Chicken Corn Chowder
Dairy-Free Chicken Corn Chowder
If you're looking to enjoy a comforting bowl of Chicken Corn Chowder without dairy, it's easy to adapt! Simply substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with your favorite non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream. You can use a blend of vegetable broth and extra corn for added creaminess. For the best flavor, include a splash of nutritional yeast, which adds a nutty, cheesy taste.
Spicy Chicken Corn Chowder
For a spicy twist on classic Chicken Corn Chowder, kick up the heat with additional jalapeños or your preferred hot sauce! You can also incorporate diced green chiles or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to elevate the dish. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing finish. These variations not only enhance the taste but also add an exciting flair to your chowder experience!
Experiment with these variations and find your favorite way to enjoy this cozy dish!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Corn Chowder
Make-ahead Tips for Busy Weeknights
Prep your Chicken Corn Chowder ingredients in advance! Chop your veggies and store them in the fridge to save time. You can also cook the bacon and chicken ahead, allowing the flavors to meld even more. Just reheat everything gently and add the cream just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy.
Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Needs
No need to stress if you're adjusting for dietary needs. For a lighter version, swap whole milk with almond or oat milk. If you're looking for a protein change, use shredded chicken ham or even turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon. Each choice can make your chowder uniquely delicious while catering to your eating preferences!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Corn Chowder
Best Sides to Serve with Chowder
Pairing your Chicken Corn Chowder with the right sides can elevate your meal experience. Consider serving:
- Crusty Bread: A warm sourdough or multigrain loaf for dipping.
- Salads: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
- Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread can complement the chowder's creamy texture beautifully.
Each side enhances the heartiness of the chowder, making your dinner feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Serve Leftovers
Don’t let leftover Chicken Corn Chowder go to waste! Transform it into a new meal with these fun ideas:
- Chowder-Stuffed Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with chowder, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
- Savory Pot Pie: Use the chowder as a filling for a quick pot pie topped with flaky pastry.
- Pasta Dish: Toss the chowder with cooked pasta for a creamy, comforting pasta meal.
With these serving suggestions, you'll not only enjoy your chowder but make the most of its deliciousness!
Time Breakdown for Chicken Corn Chowder
Preparation Time
This delightful Chicken Corn Chowder requires about 15 minutes of preparation. During this time, you'll chop your colorful veggies and gather all your ingredients, ensuring a smooth cooking process.
Cooking Time
The cooking time is approximately 30 minutes. This includes browning the turkey bacon, sautéing the veggies, and simmering the chowder to blend those delicious flavors!
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for the week ahead! So grab your favorite pot and let’s get cooking!
For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out this guide on butter types and see how to measure flour correctly here. Enjoy this hearty chowder experience!
Nutritional Facts for Chicken Corn Chowder
Calories per Serving
Each serving of Chicken Corn Chowder contains approximately 554 calories. While this may seem rich, it’s packed with tasty ingredients that make it a fulfilling meal for your busy lifestyle.
Protein and Fiber Content
This chowder is a great source of nutrition, delivering 27 grams of protein per serving. With 4 grams of fiber, it helps keep you satisfied. It’s a comforting dish that not only warms the soul but also supports your dietary needs! For more information on balanced diets, you might find resources from WebMD helpful.
FAQs about Chicken Corn Chowder
Can I use canned chicken for the chowder?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a convenient option if you're short on time or don’t have fresh chicken on hand. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the chowder, ideally towards the end of cooking. This way, you'll keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.
How long can I store leftover chowder?
Leftover Chicken Corn Chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. However, we recommend eating it within a few days for the best flavor and texture.
What if I don't have an immersion blender?
No problem! If you don’t own an immersion blender, you can transfer half of the chowder to a regular blender in batches. Blend until smooth, then mix it back into the pot. Alternatively, a potato masher can work in a pinch; it won’t be as creamy, but you’ll still enjoy a hearty soup!
For more tips on creating smooth soups without an immersion blender, check out this guide on blending techniques.
Conclusion on Chicken Corn Chowder
Why You Should Make This Chowder Recipe Today
In just one pot, this Chicken Corn Chowder combines hearty ingredients that create a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. With just a little prep, you can savor the creamy goodness topped with your favorite add-ins. Why wait? Treat yourself and bring warmth to your table today!
Chicken Corn Chowder
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Immersion Blender
Ingredients
Bacon and Vegetables
- 6 strips uncooked bacon cut into pieces
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 medium red pepper diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 Tablespoon diced jalapeno seeds and ribs removed
- 1.5 Tablespoons minced garlic
Broth and Dairy
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon table salt plus more as needed/to taste
- ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dry ground mustard
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water or use another cup of chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Potatoes and Chicken
- 1 lb Gold potatoes diced into 1” cubes, you do not need to peel
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or mix of breast and thighs, raw
- 2.5 cups sweet corn fresh, frozen, or canned
Toppings
- desired toppings corn chips, Fritos, crackers, scallions, jalapeno, cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Place bacon pieces in a large pot or Dutch oven. Turn heat to medium and cook until bacon is crisp. Remove to a paper towel lined plate and set aside.
- Drain all but approximately 2 Tablespoons of bacon grease.
- Add butter to the pot with the remaining bacon grease and cook until butter is melted.
- Add diced onion, red pepper, and jalapeno. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir until fully absorbed. Cook another 30 seconds to lightly toast the flour.
- Stir in salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth until completely combined.
- Add water, milk, cream, potatoes, chicken breast, and corn. Bring mixture to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Once chicken is cooked through, remove to a plate and shred or dice. Set aside and keep warm.
- Use an immersion blender to puree approximately half of the soup.
- After pureeing, return chicken to the pot. Stir reserved bacon back into the pot. Taste-test the soup, adding more salt/pepper as needed.
- Serve warm with desired toppings and enjoy!
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