Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe

Savor the comforting warmth of this Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder, a hearty dish that's perfect for chilly days. With a tantalizing blend of chicken, corn, and other deliciously wholesome ingredients, this chowder is a feast for your taste buds and a hug for your soul.

Photos of Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry items. You might need to make a special trip for the cream style corn, which is canned corn blended into a creamy consistency. It adds depth and richness to the chowder. The fresh thyme is another ingredient that you might not have on hand. It's worth the effort to find it, as it imparts a subtle earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder

Bacon strips: Adds a smoky, rich flavor to the chowder.

Large carrots: Helps to add a sweet and subtly earthy flavor.

Celery stalks: Their crisp texture and fresh flavor add depth to the chowder.

Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and mild flavor.

Garlic cloves: Contributes a spicy, pungent taste.

Cream style corn: Gives the chowder a creamy texture and sweet flavor.

Corn: Enhances the sweetness and adds texture.

Sweet potatoes: They add a sweet, creamy element to the chowder.

Chicken breasts: The main source of protein in this recipe.

Chicken broth: It forms the base of the chowder, giving it flavor and depth.

Fresh thyme: It imparts a subtle earthy flavor.

Dried parsley flakes: Adds a mild, slightly bitter note.

Salt: Enhances the other flavors.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and enhances other flavors.

Whole milk: Gives the chowder a creamy, rich texture.

Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the chowder.

Fresh parsley: Provides a burst of fresh flavor and color.

One reader, Ashia Preciado says:

This slow cooker chicken corn chowder recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the sweet potatoes add a delightful twist. The ease of using a slow cooker makes it a perfect weeknight dinner option. It's a definite crowd-pleaser and has become a family favorite in no time!

Ashia Preciado

Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder

How to cook bacon: Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until browned on both sides. Place the strips on paper towels and allow to cool. Once cool, crumble the bacon.

How to sauté vegetables: Add the carrots, celery, onions, and garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook the vegetables in the bacon grease over medium heat for about 5 minutes until soft. Set aside.

How to prepare slow cooker: Place the creamed corn, corn, sweet potatoes, chicken, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper into a 5-quart or larger slow cooker.

How to thicken soup: Whisk the cornstarch and milk together. Pour into the soup, give it a stir, and cover. Cook for 1 more hour.

How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder

Level up your dinner meals with this thick and rich chicken corn chowder, loaded with tender potatoes, juicy chicken, and crisp bacon, all in one bowl!

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 7 hours 30 minutes

Rest Time: 5 minutes

Total: 8 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

4bacon strips
2large carrots,(a little over 1 cup), peeled, thinly sliced
3celery stalks,(about 1 cup), thinly sliced
½medium yellow onion,(about ¾ cup), diced
3garlic cloves,minced
14ozcream style corn,(1 can)
28ozcorn,or use about 3 cups frozen, (2 cans), drained
2large sweet potatoes,or regular potatoes, peeled, cubed
3chicken breasts,boneless skinless, cubed
5cupschicken broth,used reduced sodium
1tbspfresh thyme
2tspdried parsley flakes
1tspsalt
1tspfreshly ground black pepper
1½cupswhole milk
2tbspcornstarch
fresh parsley,or dried, for garnish, optional

Instructions

Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until browned on both sides. Place the strips on paper towels and allow to cool. Once cool, crumble the bacon.
Add the carrots, celery, onions, and garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook the vegetables in the bacon grease over medium heat for about 5 minutes until soft. Set aside.
Place the creamed corn, corn, sweet potatoes, chicken, chicken broth, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper into a 5-quart or larger slow cooker.
Add the celery, carrot, onions, and the crumbled bacon. Give it all a quick stir, cover with the lid and cook on Low heat for about 6 to 7 hours.
At the 6 to 7-hour mark, whisk the cornstarch and milk together. Pour in the soup. Give it a stir and cover. Cook for 1 more hour.
Serve warm with a sprinkle of parsley and any leftover bacon crumbles, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 291.09kcal
Fat: 11.19g
Saturated Fat: 3.59g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.52g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.18g
Carbohydrates: 32.86g
Fiber: 3.34g
Sugar: 10.16g
Protein: 17.37g
Cholesterol: 40.27mg
Sodium: 571.49mg
Calcium: 71.32mg
Potassium: 668.33mg
Iron: 1.56mg
Vitamin A: 341.81µg
Vitamin C: 13.40mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder

When cooking the bacon, it's important to ensure it's crispy enough to crumble, but not overcooked to the point of burning. The bacon not only adds flavor to the chowder, but also provides a delightful texture contrast. To achieve the perfect crispness, keep a close eye on the bacon as it cooks, turning it frequently for even browning. Also, using the bacon grease to sauté the vegetables is a great way to infuse additional flavor into the chowder.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Chicken Corn Chowder in a Slow Cooker

Prep ahead: Chop and measure ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Utilize pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to cut down on cooking time.

Frozen veggies: Consider using frozen vegetables to skip the time-consuming step of chopping fresh produce.

Slow cooker liners: Utilize slow cooker liners for easy cleanup, saving time on washing the pot.

Multi-task: While the chowder is cooking, use the time to prepare other dishes or complete other tasks in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe

Bacon strips - Substitute with pancetta: Pancetta is an Italian bacon that is cured but not smoked, providing a similar salty and savory flavor to the dish.
Cream style corn - Substitute with frozen corn kernels: Frozen corn kernels can be blended to achieve a similar creamy texture and sweet flavor in the chowder.
Corn - Substitute with frozen corn: Frozen corn can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh corn, providing a similar sweet and crunchy texture.
Sweet potatoes - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash offers a similar sweet and nutty flavor and creamy texture when cooked, complementing the chowder.
Chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender when slow-cooked, adding richness to the chowder.
Chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian alternative, providing a savory base for the chowder.
Whole milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a creamy richness and a hint of sweetness to the chowder, enhancing its flavor profile.

Best Way to Present Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder

Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker chicken corn chowder, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Add a crispy element to the dish by serving the chowder with homemade cornbread croutons. This will provide a delightful contrast in texture and elevate the overall dining experience.
Utilize unique serving vessels: Instead of traditional bowls, consider serving the chowder in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic and charming presentation that will impress the judges.
Garnish with precision: Pay attention to the finer details by garnishing the chowder with a drizzle of truffle oil and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a sophisticated and luxurious touch.
Focus on balance: Ensure that the portion sizes are balanced and that the presentation showcases a harmonious blend of colors, textures, and flavors to create a visually stunning dish.

Essential Tools for Making Chicken Corn Chowder in a Slow Cooker

Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It is a versatile tool for cooking a wide variety of dishes.
Paper towels: Paper towels are used for absorbing excess oil or moisture from cooked foods and for cleaning up spills and messes in the kitchen.
Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop electrical cooking appliance that allows for long, slow cooking at low temperatures. It's perfect for making soups, stews, and other one-pot meals.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together, such as mixing the cornstarch and milk in this recipe.
5-quart or larger slow cooker: A 5-quart or larger slow cooker is a specific size of slow cooker that is ideal for making larger batches of soups, stews, and other slow-cooked dishes.
Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It is a versatile tool for cooking a wide variety of dishes.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a deep bowl used for mixing ingredients together, such as whisking the cornstarch and milk in this recipe.

Storing and Freezing Chicken Corn Chowder Made in a Slow Cooker

Allow the chicken corn chowder to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled chowder to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
When ready to reheat, transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin out the consistency if it has thickened too much during storage.
For freezing, transfer the cooled chowder to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen chowder, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, transfer the thawed chowder to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a bit of chicken broth or milk to adjust the consistency if needed.
Note: The sweet potatoes and vegetables in the chowder may become slightly softer after freezing and reheating, but the overall flavor should still be delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Chicken Corn Chowder

The best way to reheat leftover slow cooker chicken corn chowder is to use a saucepan on the stovetop. Pour the desired amount of chowder into the pan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your preferred temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the chowder is evenly warmed without scorching or separating.
Another option is to use the microwave. Transfer the chowder to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Heat the chowder in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chowder, as this can cause the milk and cornstarch mixture to separate or become grainy.
If you have stored the chowder in a freezer-safe container, you can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This method is particularly useful if you have a large quantity of leftover chowder and want to reheat it in smaller portions over several days.
When reheating the chowder, you may find that it has thickened considerably due to the cornstarch. If this is the case, you can thin the chowder to your desired consistency by stirring in small amounts of chicken broth or milk until you reach the perfect texture.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover chowder, consider garnishing it with additional toppings such as crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, or chopped fresh parsley. These toppings can help to brighten the flavors and make the reheated chowder feel like a brand new meal.

Interesting Fact About Chicken Corn Chowder

The slow cooker chicken corn chowder recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that can be easily customized with additional vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences. It's a great way to use up leftover chicken and can be prepared in advance for a convenient meal. This chowder is a perfect dish for a cozy night in or for feeding a crowd during a gathering. It's a versatile and delicious option for anyone looking for a warm and satisfying meal.

Is Making Chicken Corn Chowder in a Slow Cooker Cost-Effective?

This slow cooker chicken corn chowder recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and corn makes it a budget-friendly option. The use of affordable ingredients and the ability to stretch the meal over multiple servings makes it a great choice for families. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it an economical and satisfying option. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is This Chicken Corn Chowder Healthy?

This slow cooker chicken corn chowder recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like carrots, celery, onions, garlic, sweet potatoes, and chicken breast, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and lean protein. The use of chicken broth instead of heavy cream reduces the overall fat content. However, the recipe also contains less healthy components, such as bacon and whole milk, which add saturated fat and calories to the dish. The creamed corn and regular corn contribute to the carbohydrate content, which may be a concern for those watching their carb intake.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the bacon with a leaner alternative, such as turkey bacon or omit it altogether and sauté the vegetables in a small amount of olive oil
Use low-fat or skim milk instead of whole milk to reduce the saturated fat content
Opt for a reduced-sodium chicken broth to control the salt intake
Increase the proportion of vegetables to corn, or use a mix of corn and other low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower
Serve the chowder with a side salad or a whole-grain bread to add more fiber and nutrients to the meal

Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe

The slow cooker chicken corn chowder recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of bacon, sweet potatoes, and corn creates a rich and hearty base, while the addition of chicken and aromatic herbs adds depth to the dish. The use of a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a comforting and satisfying chowder. The incorporation of fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and freshness. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a cozy and delicious meal.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a crispy garlic parmesan topping.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey and thyme for a flavorful side dish.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: Assorted vegetables grilled to perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze for a delicious accompaniment to the chowder.

Similar Recipes to Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This classic soup is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to warm you up.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Take your broccoli to the next level with this delicious and easy recipe. The garlic and parmesan add a savory twist to this healthy side dish.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Indulge in a sweet treat with this tropical-inspired chia pudding. The combination of mango and coconut creates a creamy and refreshing dessert that is perfect for any time of day.

Appetizer and Dessert Suggestions for Chicken Corn Chowder

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. It's a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake. The contrast between the molten center and the slightly crisp exterior creates a delightful sensory experience that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Berry Parfait: Create a visually stunning and delicious berry parfait that layers vibrant, fresh berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola. The combination of textures and flavors makes for a refreshing and satisfying dessert that is perfect for any occasion.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe:

This slow cooker chicken corn chowder recipe is a trustworthy choice for your kitchen. The combination of fresh thyme, sweet potatoes, and chicken broth creates a rich and flavorful base. The addition of bacon adds a smoky depth, while the use of whole milk and cornstarch ensures a creamy and luscious texture. With the inclusion of fresh parsley for garnish, this recipe promises a delightful and comforting dining experience.

Share your thoughts on the Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried with this comforting dish!

FAQ:

Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn instead of canned corn. Just make sure to thaw the frozen corn before adding it to the slow cooker.

Can I use something other than bacon for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use bacon, you can substitute it with smoked sausage or even add some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Can I use something other than chicken breasts?

Certainly! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even leftover cooked chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the whole milk with a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and other ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions.