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Craving a Comforting Bowl That’s Ready When You Are?
Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of a creamy, naturally delicious chowder, without spending hours in the kitchen. This Slow Cooker Chicken and Corn Chowder is the answer to your weeknight dinner dreams! It’s incredibly easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to experience a bowl of pure comfort!
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s unbelievably easy: Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work!
- The flavor is incredible: The combination of chicken, corn, and creamy broth is a naturally winning combination.
- It’s perfect for busy weeknights: Set it and forget it, then come home to a ready-to-eat meal.
- It’s naturally customizable: Easily adapt it to your liking with different vegetables or spices.
- It makes great leftovers: The flavors meld even further overnight, making it perfect for lunch the next day.
- It’s a naturally comforting and hearty meal that satisfies even the biggest appetites.
- It’s naturally gluten-free (make sure to check your cream of chicken soup).
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
What sets this chowder apart is the method of using a slow cooker to naturally develop and blend the flavors over time. The slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken beautifully and allows the corn to infuse its sweetness into the creamy broth. This naturally results in a depth of flavor that you simply can’t achieve with a stovetop recipe. The addition of cream cheese at the end adds a richness and tanginess that elevates it to a new level of deliciousness.
Ingredient List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (15 ounce) can of creamed corn
- 1 (15 ounce) can of whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Creamed corn adds sweetness and body to the chowder, creating that classic chowder texture. Cream of chicken soup gives the soup a creamy base and boosts the chicken flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts, creamed corn, whole kernel corn, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion, celery, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them with two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add the softened cream cheese to the slow cooker and stir until completely melted and the chowder is creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Optional Toppings/Variations
- Bacon crumbles: Add a smoky crunch.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into the chowder.
- Green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Hot sauce: For a touch of heat.
- Oyster crackers: A classic chowder accompaniment.
Expert Tips
- Don’t overcook the chicken: It will become dry and tough. Cook until it’s just cooked through and easily shreds.
- If you prefer a thicker chowder, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- For a naturally spicier chowder, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the slow cooker.
- To easily shred the chicken, place the cooked chicken breasts in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment and mix on low speed until shredded.
- If you don’t have cream cheese, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy alternative. Stir it in gently after turning off the slow cooker to prevent curdling.
- Naturally fresh herbs will elevate the flavor; add them in the last hour of cooking or as garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen corn?
Yes, you can use frozen corn. There’s no need to thaw it first; just add it directly to the slow cooker.
- Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup. Or you can create a naturally creamy base from scratch using flour, butter, and milk.
- How long does the chowder last in the refrigerator?
The chowder will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze the chowder?
Yes, you can freeze the chowder. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Can I make this chowder on the stovetop?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the stovetop. Sauté the onion and celery in a pot until softened. Then add the remaining ingredients (except the cream cheese) and simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Shred the chicken and stir in the cream cheese until melted.
- Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Diced potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers would be naturally delicious additions.
Variations and Customization Options
- Spicy Chicken and Corn Chowder: Incorporate a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
- Smoked Chicken and Corn Chowder: Use smoked chicken breasts instead of regular chicken for a smoky flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Corn Chowder: Omit the chicken entirely and substitute with vegetable broth. Add more vegetables like diced potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers.
- Creamy Potato and Corn Chowder: Incorporate diced potatoes for a heartier, naturally filling meal.
- Tex-Mex Chicken and Corn Chowder: Enhance the flavor with a packet of taco seasoning, black beans, and diced tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Corn Chowder is naturally delicious on its own, but it’s also wonderful served with a side of crusty bread for dipping. A simple green salad makes a refreshing complement. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or cornbread. It’s also fantastic as a starter to a larger meal.
Comfort Food, Simplified.
This Slow Cooker Chicken and Corn Chowder is a naturally simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The ease of preparation and incredible flavor make it a guaranteed family favorite. Don’t wait – give it a try and experience the comfort of a homemade chowder without the fuss! Share your photos with friends and family and inspire them to try this delicious recipe.
