Name: Chicken Corn Chowder: Creamy Comfort with Turkey Bacon Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 5 strips bacon (drippings reserved); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon hot sauce; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 small yellow onion (diced); 2 tablespoons butter; 1-2 jalapeno peppers (diced); 3/4 cup red bell pepper (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/3 cup flour; 2 cups half and half; 1 bay leaf; 1 lb. boneless/skinless chicken breast (or 2 cups leftover/rotisserie chicken); Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); 1 lb. Yukon gold potatoes (diced); 1 can (15 oz.) sweet kernel corn (drained); 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded (Optional)); 1/3 cup green onions (diced); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1 pinch Cayenne Pepper

Introduction to Chicken Corn Chowder

Why Chicken Corn Chowder is the Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s something undeniably soothing about a warm bowl of chicken corn chowder. In those busy post-work evenings or chilly weekends, this hearty dish becomes our go-to comfort food. With its creamy texture, sweet bites of corn, and tender pieces of chicken, it’s like a hug in a bowl.

One of the best things about this chowder is its versatility! You can whip it up with leftover chicken or even use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a gathering dish for friends and family. According to a recent survey, 70% of people fondly associate chowders with family gatherings and comfort.

The combination of Turkey bacon, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings makes for a satisfying experience that warms you from the inside out. Not to mention, it’s easy to customize — looking for a kick? Toss in extra jalapeños. Seeking more depth? A touch of smoked paprika might do the trick.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to dive into this delicious recipe that keeps us cozy and nourished — your tastebuds are in for a treat!

Ingredients for Chicken Corn Chowder

When you're ready to whip up a comforting bowl of chicken corn chowder, gathering the right ingredients is key. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish that's perfect for any day of the week.

Essential Ingredients List

5 strips turkey bacon, drippings reserved
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 tablespoons butter
1-2 jalapeno peppers, diced (adjust for heat preference)
¾ cup red bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
⅓ cup flour
2 cups half and half
1 bay leaf
1 lb. boneless/skinless chicken breast or 2 cups leftover/rotisserie chicken
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lb. Yukon gold potatoes, diced
1 (15 oz.) can sweet kernel corn, drained
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional)
⅓ cup green onions, diced for garnish

Seasonings:

½ teaspoon each of salt, oregano, paprika, mustard powder, chili powder, and cumin
1 pinch cayenne pepper

With these ingredients in hand, you're well on your way to creating a chicken corn chowder that's not only flavorful but also brings warmth to the table. For tips on selecting the freshest vegetables, check out our guide on choosing the best produce.

Preparing Chicken Corn Chowder

Making a delicious chicken corn chowder is a lovely project that brings comfort and warmth to any mealtime. With a blend of flavors and textures, this recipe is perfect for those cozy nights in. Let's break down the process into manageable steps so you can create this delightful dish with ease.

Cook the Turkey Bacon

Begin your chowder adventure by cooking the turkey bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Opt for a low heat in a 4.5-quart soup pot, which helps render the fat and achieve that golden crunch without burning. Once cooked, set it aside and let it cool slightly before chopping. Pro tip: the bacon drippings will add wonderful flavor to your chowder, so don’t discard them just yet!

Prepare the Chicken Broth Mixture

While your bacon is cooking, take a moment to mix up the flavorful broth. Combine chicken broth, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and your choice of seasonings like oregano and paprika in a large measuring cup. This mix will not only enhance the taste of your chowder but also infuse it with warmth and richness. Make sure to measure out your other ingredients beforehand, as this keeps your cooking process smooth.

Sauté the Vegetables

With the turkey bacon ready, keep the drippings in the pot and heat it to medium. Add diced onions and let them soften for about three minutes—this is when your kitchen will start to smell heavenly. Then, toss in butter, jalapeno peppers, red bell peppers, and minced garlic, cooking them for an additional three minutes. These veggies are crucial for building the chowder's flavor base.

Make the Base with Flour

Next, sprinkle in the flour, stirring continuously as it cooks for about two minutes. This step is important because it creates a thickened base that will hold your chowder together. You want it to be just golden and fragrant—this browning adds complexity to your dish.

Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to add the chicken. Cut the breast in half lengthwise and season both sides with salt and pepper. Gently place it in your chowder mixture and simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. This careful cooking technique ensures the chicken remains tender—after all, nobody wants tough chicken in their chowder!

Add the Potatoes and Corn

Once your chicken is cooked through, it's time for the star ingredients: potatoes and corn. Dice the Yukon gold potatoes and add them to the pot, simmering uncovered until they are fork-tender—this usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Then, fold in the drained sweet corn, letting everything meld together beautifully.

Finishing Touches with Cheese and Seasoning

Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, which adds a rich creaminess to your chicken corn chowder. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving, and garnish with your reserved bacon bits and fresh green onions. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it alongside some fluffy Cheddar Bay Biscuits for an extra special touch!

Enjoying a bowl of this chowder is bound to become a favorite in your household!

Variations on Chicken Corn Chowder

Spicy Chicken Corn Chowder

Looking to spice things up? Transform your classic chicken corn chowder by adding some heat! Start with the basic recipe and include finely chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to taste. For an extra kick, toss in a little cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce. This adds depth to the chowder, making every bite a flavor adventure! Pair it with a crisp salad or fresh cornbread for a delightful meal.

Creamy Vegan Corn Chowder

Craving a vegan twist? Swap out the chicken broth with vegetable broth and the half-and-half with coconut milk or cashew cream. You can replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas for protein. This creamy vegan corn chowder remains flavorful and satisfying, perfect for a cozy dinner. Serve with avocado slices for added creaminess and nutrition!

These creative variations can keep your meals exciting and cater to different dietary preferences. Explore more variations to make this chowder your own!

Cooking Tips for Chicken Corn Chowder

Ensuring Perfect Texture

To achieve a creamy yet hearty chicken corn chowder, incorporate the flour gradually to avoid lumps. Cooking the flour for a couple of minutes before adding the broth helps develop a richer flavor. When adding the potatoes, ensure they’re diced uniformly for even cooking. For an ultimate creamy finish, consider using a mix of half-and-half and a splash of broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Adjusting the Spice Level

If you enjoy a bit of heat, adjust the jalapeno peppers according to your preference. You can always start with one and add more if needed. For those who are spice-sensitive, keeping the hot sauce on the side allows everyone to customize their bowl. This chicken corn chowder is versatile enough to satisfy all heat preferences, making it a perfect dish for gatherings!

For more tips on making your chowder even tastier, check out resources like The Spruce Eats for cooking advice and ingredient substitutions.

Serving suggestions for Chicken Corn Chowder

Accompany with Biscuits

One of the best ways to enjoy your chicken corn chowder is to serve it with warm, flaky biscuits. They make the perfect utensil for scooping up every last creamy bite. You can opt for homemade Cheddar Bay Biscuits or even store-bought varieties to keep it simple. The buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the chowder's richness, making it even more comforting.

Topping Ideas

Elevate your chicken corn chowder by adding a few toppings! Consider:

Crispy Turkey Bacon: Adds a delightful crunch.
Shredded Cheese: A little extra cheddar or Monterey Jack for creaminess.
Green Onions: Freshness and color that brighten the dish.
Crushed Tortilla Chips: For an unexpected twist, add some crunch.

These simple additions can take your chowder from ordinary to extraordinary!

Time Breakdown for Chicken Corn Chowder

Preparation Time

Get ready to embark on a delicious journey! The preparation for this hearty chicken corn chowder only takes about 15 minutes. This includes slicing your veggies and measuring out your ingredients. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can set everything up!

Cooking Time

The real magic happens in the pot! Cooking the chowder itself will take approximately 40-50 minutes. That’s just enough time for those wonderful flavors to blend beautifully. If you’re using leftover or rotisserie chicken, you can shave off some time here!

Total Time

In just 1 hour to 1 hour and 5 minutes, you’ll have a warm, inviting pot of chicken corn chowder waiting for you. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead!

For tips on measurement conversions, check out this handy guide to streamline your cooking experience. Cooking made easy!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Corn Chowder

Calories

A serving of chicken corn chowder packs around 400 calories, making it a hearty choice for a cozy meal. This balance helps you feel satisfied without going overboard.

Protein

With approximately 25 grams of protein per serving, this chowder is a great option for muscle maintenance and repair, particularly if you're leading an active lifestyle.

Sodium

It contains about 800 mg of sodium per serving. While this is essential for your body, you might want to adjust the salt to suit dietary needs, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake.

Enjoy this comforting dish while being mindful of its nutritional profile! For more detailed insights on nutrition, check out resources like NutritionData or USDA FoodData Central to tailor it further to your needs.

FAQs about Chicken Corn Chowder

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to make your chicken corn chowder even more convenient. In fact, rotisserie chicken works brilliantly and saves you prep time. Just shred it before adding it to the pot; it will warm up nicely in the chowder.

How can I thicken my chowder?

If you prefer a thicker consistency for your chicken corn chowder, there are a few options to consider. You can:

Add more flour: Make a slurry with flour and water, and stir it in gradually.
Use cornstarch: Mix cornstarch with some cold water and add it to the chowder, stirring until it thickens.
Blend part of the chowder: Blend some of the potatoes and return them to the pot for a creamy texture.

What are good side dishes to pair with chicken corn chowder?

Pairing your chicken corn chowder with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

Cheddar Bay Biscuits: These flaky, buttery treats are perfect for dipping.
Simple Salad: A fresh garden salad adds a light contrast.
Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser.

Feel free to mix and match! Enjoy your chowder adventure.

Conclusion on Chicken Corn Chowder

In summary, this chicken corn chowder is a delightful, hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you're preparing a cozy dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the warm flavors and comforting textures—your taste buds will thank you! Don't forget to explore more chowder variations for added creativity!