There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty bowl of chowder, and this Easy Chicken Corn Chowder is perfect for cozy nights, quick weeknight dinners, or when you need a dish that the whole family will love. It’s creamy, full of flavor, and incredibly easy to make.
This recipe is ideal for home cooks who want a satisfying meal with minimal effort. It’s packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, and a hint of spice from jalapeño, making it the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy. Plus, it comes together in just about 20 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes!
- One-Pot Meal – Less cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Creamy & Hearty – The perfect comfort food for any season.
- Versatile – Can be customized with different proteins, veggies, or spice levels.
To make this Easy Chicken Corn Chowder, you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon butter – Adds richness and depth of flavor.
- ½ cup finely chopped onion – For a mild, sweet taste.
- ½ cup finely chopped celery – Adds a subtle crunch and flavor.
- 1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced – Gives a slight kick without overpowering the dish.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the chowder.
- 3 cups 2% milk – Creates a creamy base without being too heavy.
- 2 cups chopped roasted skinless, boneless chicken breasts – Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- One 14.75-ounce can cream-style corn – Contributes to the chowder’s creamy texture.
- 1½ cups frozen corn kernels (or 3 ears of fresh corn) – Adds sweetness and texture.
- 1½ teaspoons chopped fresh thyme – Enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground red pepper – For a hint of heat.
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and jalapeño; cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender and fragrant.
2. Add the Thickener
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute. This step helps to thicken the chowder.
3. Combine the Remaining Ingredients
Slowly stir in the milk, followed by the chicken, corn, thyme, salt, and red pepper.
4. Simmer Until Thickened
Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the chowder into bowls and enjoy it hot! Garnish with fresh thyme or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired.
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the chowder.
- Protein Swap: Try using shredded turkey, ham, or even bacon for a different flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add diced potatoes or bell peppers for extra heartiness.
- Extra Spice: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or an extra jalapeño.
To complete your meal, consider pairing this chowder with:
- Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping!
- Garlic Bread – Adds a delicious buttery, garlicky crunch.
- A Simple Green Salad – Provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
- White Wine – A light Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors well.
Can I make this chowder in advance?
Yes! It reheats well, making it a great make-ahead meal. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
What if I don’t have fresh thyme?
No problem! You can use ½ teaspoon dried thyme as a substitute.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch, but for the best flavor and texture, roasted or rotisserie chicken is recommended.
Is this chowder gluten-free?
No, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener.
How do I make it thicker?
For a thicker chowder, let it simmer a few extra minutes or add an extra tablespoon of flour when cooking the vegetables.
This Easy Chicken Corn Chowder is a must-try for anyone who loves comforting, homemade meals that come together quickly. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this chowder is sure to impress.
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