Introduction to Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
What is Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder?
If you're seeking a warm and hearty dish that seamlessly blends comfort with convenience, look no further than slow cooker chicken corn chowder. This delightful recipe features tender chicken, creamy corn, and hearty potatoes, all simmered together to create a rich flavor profile that's perfect for any day of the week.
A slow cooker is your best friend in the kitchen—its ability to transform simple ingredients into a comforting meal while you go about your day is unmatched. For a quick dive into the world of chowder, consider this: studies show that home-cooked meals, like this one, can boost both mood and health (source: Harvard Health). Not only do you have control over what goes into your chowder, but the slow cooking process also enhances the flavors, making every bite more delicious.
Imagine coming home to a fragrant kitchen where a warm bowl of chowder is ready to be devoured. Slow cooker chicken corn chowder is not just a meal; it’s a promise of cozy evenings and good company. Pair this dish with a fresh salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got yourself a dinner to remember.
Ready to learn how to make it? Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
When you're looking for a cozy meal to warm your soul, this slow cooker chicken corn chowder is a go-to. It combines comforting ingredients that not only taste great but also offer a hearty meal for your weeknight dinners. Here's what you'll need:
- 3 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of our chowder, providing tender chicken pieces.
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth: For a flavorful base, opt for low sodium to control the saltiness.
- 5 small red, gold, or brown potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces): Red potatoes, my personal favorite, lend a creamy texture.
- 1 can (8 ounces) diced green chiles: A little zest! These add a mild kick to your chowder.
- 1 small white or yellow onion, diced: Bringing a classic onion flavor that melds beautifully.
- 2 cans cream-style corn: For that deliciously sweet creaminess that goes hand-in-hand with corn chowder.
- 2 cups heavy cream (sub half & half for a lighter touch): This makes the chowder luscious and rich.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Because garlic elevates everything!
- 4-6 strips of turkey bacon, diced and crisped: The delightful crunch adds a savory note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for ensuring all flavors pop.
- Freshly chopped parsley: For that fresh finishing touch.
Each of these components plays a pivotal role in creating a slow cooker chicken corn chowder that’s both satisfying and delicious! If you're curious about additional flavor ideas, check out The Kitchn for more tips on enhancing chowders. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Making a warm, hearty slow cooker chicken corn chowder is easier than you might think! This comfort food is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, and the best part is that most of the work is done in your slow cooker. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this delightful dish.
Gather and Prepare the Ingredients
First things first, gather all your ingredients. You’ll need:
- 3 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 5 small red, gold, or brown potatoes (my favorite are red!), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 8-ounce can diced green chiles
- 1 small onion, diced (white or yellow)
- 2 cans cream-style corn
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half & half for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4-6 strips of turkey bacon, diced and cooked until crispy
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish
Getting everything ready at the start keeps the process smooth and quick. Chopping your veggies ahead of time can also minimize kitchen chaos!
Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
In your slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, chicken broth, potatoes, diced green chiles, onion, and cream-style corn. Give everything a good stir to mix the flavors well. Cover your slow cooker and set it to low, cooking for about 4 hours. The seasoning from the broth and spices will infuse into the chicken and potatoes, creating a delicious base for your chowder.
Shred the Chicken
After about 4 hours, it’s time for one of my favorite moments! When you uncover the slow cooker, the aroma will hit you, and you’ll see the chicken has cooked perfectly. Using two forks, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker; it should pull apart easily. This adds great texture to your chicken corn chowder and helps integrate the flavors throughout.
Add the Cream and Seasonings
Once the chicken is shredded, it’s time to elevate your chowder. Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, and crispy turkey bacon. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste! This will give the chowder a rich, creamy texture. Let it cook for another 15-20 minutes on low, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Garnish and Serve
Your slow cooker chicken corn chowder is almost ready! Ladle the hot chowder into bowls, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for a little extra flair. Serve it up alongside some crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal that’s bound to impress!
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a comforting and delicious chowder that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Enjoy your meal! For more slow cooker recipes, check out this guide.
Variations on Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
If you love a little kick, try adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a spicy twist on your classic slow cooker chicken corn chowder. You can also toss in a splash of your favorite hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes. This little adjustment takes the comforting flavors and elevates them to an exciting new level!
Vegetarian Version of Chicken Corn Chowder
For a meat-free alternative, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth and consider adding protein-rich ingredients like beans or lentils for a satisfying texture. This vegetarian version not only keeps the spirit of the original chowder but is also a perfect option for a light and nutritious meal. Check out this resource for more vegetarian soup inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Making slow cooker chicken corn chowder can be a cozy culinary experience! Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish:
- Prep Ahead: Chop your potatoes and onions in advance to save time on cooking day. Fresh vegetables give the best texture and flavor.
- Creamy Alternatives: If you want a lighter chowder, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free twist. Check out this resource for more dairy-free tips.
- Personal Touch: Want more heat? Add crushed red pepper flakes or chipotles in adobo for a spicy kick!
This versatile chowder is perfect for meal prep, staying fresh in your fridge for up to 5 days or freezing beautifully for up to 5 months. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
When it comes to serving your slow cooker chicken corn chowder, the possibilities are delightfully endless! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish.
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Accompany with Crusty Bread: Pair your chowder with a warm baguette or sourdough roll for a delightful dunking experience. The crusty texture complements the creaminess beautifully.
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Add Fresh Toppings: Consider garnishing with extra crispy turkey bacon, sliced green onions, or jalapeños for a fun twist. These additions bring extra flavor and texture to each scoop.
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Serve with a Side Salad: Balance your rich chowder with a fresh garden salad—toss in some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to keep it fresh.
So, what’s your favorite way to enjoy this hearty dish? Explore some more tips on serving chowder by visiting The Kitchn for inspiration!
Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Preparation Time
Preparing your slow cooker chicken corn chowder is a breeze and takes about 15 minutes. Just chop your veggies, dice the Turkey Bacon, and gather all those delicious ingredients. This quick prep allows you to focus on your day without stress.
Cooking Time
Once everything's in the slow cooker, let it work its magic! You'll need to cook on low for approximately 4 hours. This slow cooking method helps enhance all the flavors, making your chowder irresistible.
Total Time
All in all, you’re looking at a total of 4 hours and 15 minutes. That includes your prep and cooking time. Perfect for a cozy evening at home, this slow cooker chicken corn chowder is sure to delight your taste buds without demanding too much of your time.
For more slow cooker meal ideas, check out sites like The Spruce Eats or Allrecipes for inspiration!
Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as heartwarming as slow cooker chicken corn chowder. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect nutritionally:
Calories
This creamy delight clocks in at 895 calories per serving, making it a filling option for any meal, especially on chilly days.
Protein
Packed with 34 grams of protein, thanks mainly to the chicken, this chowder is not only satisfying but also a great way to meet your daily protein needs.
Sodium
While it delivers big flavor, the chowder contains 946 mg of sodium. To keep it healthier, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and adjusting seasoning to your taste.
For more information on maintaining a balanced diet, check out resources on healthy cooking tips and nutritional guidelines.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Can I use frozen chicken for the chowder?
Absolutely! Using frozen chicken for your slow cooker chicken corn chowder is a great option and can save you time. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure that the chicken is cooked through. It’s recommended to cook on low for about 5 to 6 hours instead of 4 when starting with frozen chicken breasts. Trust me, you’ll still end up with tender, juicy meat!
How do I thicken the chowder if it's too thin?
If you find your chowder is a bit too thin for your liking, don’t worry! You can easily thicken it. One method is to mash some of the potatoes in the chowder to naturally thicken the soup. Alternatively, you can mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the chowder and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
What sides pair well with chicken corn chowder?
Slow cooker chicken corn chowder is rich and creamy, so pairing it with lighter sides can create a balanced meal. Consider serving it with:
- A fresh garden salad
- Crusty whole grain bread for dipping
- Roasted vegetables for some added health benefits
These simple sides complement the chowder perfectly and make your meal feel complete. Enjoy!
Conclusion on Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Slow cooker chicken corn chowder is the perfect blend of creamy comfort and hearty goodness. With minimal prep and a few simple ingredients, you'll have a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. Don't hesitate to experiment with flavors; this chowder is your canvas! Serve with crusty bread for a complete experience. For more delicious ideas, check out this collection of comforting slow cooker recipes. Enjoy your cozy cooking!
Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 3 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 5 small red, gold, or brown potatoes cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 8-ounce can diced green chiles
- 1 small white or yellow onion diced
- 2 cans cream-style corn
- 2 cups heavy cream may sub half & half for a lighter version
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4-6 strips bacon diced and cooked til crispy
- salt and pepper to taste
- freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Combine chicken, chicken broth, potatoes, green chiles, onion, and corn in slow cooker. Stir to combine, then cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
- Uncover slow cooker and use two forks to shred chicken.
- Stir in heavy cream, garlic powder, bacon, salt and pepper to taste, and cook another 15-20 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper and serve hot.
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