Easy Chicken Corn Chowder for Cozy Dinners

Warm up your evenings with a bowl of creamy Chicken Corn Chowder that is both simple and satisfying. This recipe features smoky turkey bacon and luscious plant-based cream that blend harmoniously with tender chicken and sweet corn, creating a comforting meal perfect for cozy dinners any night of the week. It’s an easy dish that combines hearty flavors and velvety textures to keep you coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort in a bowl: Thick and creamy texture makes it feel like a warm hug on chilly days.
• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples that are easy to find and pack a punch in flavor.
• Smoky depth: Smoked turkey bacon adds a rich, savory twist that elevates every spoonful.
• Plant-based creamy goodness: Keeps the chowder silky and indulgent with a dairy-free touch.
• Quick weeknight meal: Ready in under 40 minutes, making busy evenings easier and tastier.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chicken Corn Chowder depends on a few essential, well-chosen ingredients that bring out the best in every bite. Each component contributes either to the rich flavor, satisfying texture, or beautiful golden color that makes this dish so inviting.

• Chicken breast: Tender pieces give the chowder substance and protein.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a smoky, savory element without overpowering the soup.
• Yellow corn kernels: Fresh or frozen, they offer natural sweetness and crunch.
• Onion and garlic: Aromatics that create a solid depth of flavor from the start.
• Potatoes: Provide a creamy base and satisfying texture when cooked until soft.
• Plant-based cream: Gives rich creaminess without traditional dairy heaviness.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Introduces subtle umami and complexity.
• Chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties all ingredients together.
• Fresh thyme and parsley: Herbs add freshness and visual appeal.
• Natural gelling agent: For extra creamy, smooth texture without dairy thickening agents.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors.

Variations for Chicken Corn Chowder

This recipe is delightfully versatile, so feel free to mix things up depending on what you have on hand or your personal flavor preferences. It’s easy to adapt without losing the comforting essence of classic Chicken Corn Chowder.

• Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of smoked paprika to bring some heat.
• Veggie boost: Incorporate diced bell peppers, carrots, or celery to add color and nutrition.
• Herb swap: Try rosemary or basil instead of thyme for a different aromatic twist.
• Grain addition: Stir in cooked quinoa or barley for extra heartiness and fiber.
• Plant-based version: Use plant-based chicken substitutes and vegetable broth for a vegan-friendly chowder.

How to Make Chicken Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Dice the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes, chop the smoked turkey bacon into small pieces, and finely chop the onion and garlic. Peel and cube potatoes, and if using fresh corn, carefully cut kernels from the cob.

Step 2: Cook Smoked Turkey Bacon

Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the turkey bacon. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked bacon pieces and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the onion and garlic to the bacon fat and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds the flavor base of your chowder.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Chicken

Stir in the cubed potatoes and chicken pieces, coating them in the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for another 5 minutes until the chicken starts to brown slightly.

Step 5: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Add the chicken broth, yellow corn kernels, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer gently until potatoes are tender and chicken is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Stir in Plant-Based Cream and Natural Gelling Agent

Once the chowder thickens and the ingredients are tender, add the plant-based cream and sprinkle in a small amount of natural gelling agent to help achieve that perfect, rich chowder consistency. Stir well to combine.

Step 7: Finish with Herbs and Seasonings

Remove from heat and mix in chopped fresh thyme and parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Finally, fold in the crispy smoked turkey bacon pieces for a smoky crunch.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Corn Chowder

• Use fresh corn for best sweetness: If in season, fresh corn elevates the flavor immensely, but frozen works great year-round.
• Do not overcook chicken: Adding chicken too early or cooking too long can make it dry; add it when potatoes start to soften.
• Adjust creaminess carefully: Slowly add plant-based cream to control texture and avoid making it too thin.
• Season gradually: Taste as you go to build balanced flavors without over-salting.
• Natural gelling agent use: Incorporate just enough to thicken without affecting the smooth mouthfeel.

How to Serve Chicken Corn Chowder

Garnishes

Top your bowl with fresh chopped parsley or chives and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for an inviting look and fresh flavor contrast. A few crispy smoked turkey bacon bits on top add a delightful crunch.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside crusty bread or warm pita to soak up every drop of the chowder. A light side salad with tangy apple cider vinegar dressing balances the creamy richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Chicken Corn Chowder in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or rustic bread bowls. You could also layer it over roasted sweet potatoes for a comforting, nutrient-packed meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover chowder in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more, making for an even tastier next-day meal.

Freezing

This chowder freezes well if cooled completely and stored in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months to enjoy later without any compromise in flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of plant-based cream or broth if it thickens too much during reheating to restore creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works wonderfully in Chicken Corn Chowder and offers great convenience without losing taste or texture.

Is it okay to substitute smoked turkey bacon with another protein?

Yes, you can swap smoked turkey bacon with diced chicken sausage or even plant-based bacon alternatives to suit your preferences.

What if I don’t have plant-based cream on hand?

You can use coconut milk or a creamy nut-based milk as a substitute, keeping the chowder rich and velvety.

How can I make the chowder spicier?

Add freshly chopped chili, smoked paprika, or a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéing the aromatics to introduce a pleasant heat.

Can I prepare Chicken Corn Chowder ahead of time for a party?

Definitely. It holds up well when made a day in advance and reheated gently just before serving, allowing flavors to deepen wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

This creamy, flavorful Chicken Corn Chowder is the perfect recipe to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table. Simple, flexible, and utterly delicious, it’s a go-to choice when you want a hearty meal that feels like a cozy home hug in a bowl. Give it a try tonight and enjoy every satisfying spoonful!

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