Cozy Crockpot Chicken and Corn Chowder
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up with this hearty and comforting crockpot chicken and corn chowder, perfect for chilly days.
This cozy crockpot chicken and corn chowder is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Simply throw all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms your soul
- Packed with sweet corn and tender chicken
- Convenient one-pot meal with minimal cleanup
The Comfort of Chowder
Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, especially on a chilly day. This Cozy Crockpot Chicken and Corn Chowder embodies everything you love about a warm, hearty dish. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, and a rich, creamy broth creates a meal that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction. Not only does it fill your belly, but it also nourishes your soul, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or a cozy night in.
With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, this chowder stands out from the crowd. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste while ensuring that each bite is as comforting as the last. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this chowder is sure to impress.
Easy Preparation Steps
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. By utilizing a crockpot, you can set it and forget it, allowing for a stress-free cooking experience. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic to build a flavor base, then combine everything in the crockpot for a no-fuss meal. This method not only saves time but also minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Simply sear the chicken for added depth, combine your ingredients, and let the crockpot do the work. In just a few hours, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. This easy preparation method means you can spend more time with family and less time in the kitchen.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Cozy Crockpot Chicken and Corn Chowder is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, preparing a comforting family meal, or looking for leftovers to enjoy throughout the week, this recipe fits the bill. Its hearty nature makes it a satisfying option any time of year, though it truly shines during the colder months.
Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a go-to recipe that you'll want to make again and again. Plus, it's easy to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand, ensuring you can create this comforting dish whenever the craving strikes.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make a delightful chowder.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Make sure to check that all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your chowder.
Prepare the Chicken
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Transfer the seared chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, frozen corn, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
Cook the Chowder
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Shred the chicken with two forks.
Add Cream and Serve
Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 30 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Enjoy your delicious chowder with some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers of this chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to return the chowder to its creamy consistency, as it may thicken in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chowder for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option.
Variations to Try
While the original recipe is delicious, feel free to get creative! Add diced potatoes for extra heartiness or toss in some bell peppers for a colorful twist. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or even make a vegetarian version by using chickpeas or tofu instead.
For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Whatever variations you choose, this chowder is adaptable and forgiving, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences.
Nutritional Benefits
This chowder not only warms your heart but also provides nutritional benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied. Meanwhile, corn adds a touch of sweetness and is packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
The heavy cream contributes creaminess but can be substituted with a lighter option like coconut milk or half-and-half if you prefer a lower-calorie dish. Enjoy this chowder guilt-free knowing that it's both delicious and nutritious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by about 1 hour.
→ Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this chowder on the stovetop?
Yes, you can simmer all ingredients in a pot on the stove for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Cozy Crockpot Chicken and Corn Chowder
Warm up with this hearty and comforting crockpot chicken and corn chowder, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Transfer the seared chicken, sautéed onion and garlic, frozen corn, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper into the crockpot. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Shred the chicken with two forks.
Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 30 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g