This recipe delivers a comforting and flavorful corn chicken chowder, perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend gathering. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy the delicious aroma and effortless preparation. This recipe is optimized for search engines while maintaining a natural and engaging tone.
What Makes This Slow Cooker Corn Chicken Chowder Special?
This recipe distinguishes itself through its simplicity, incredible flavor, and the convenience of slow-cooking. We're not just throwing ingredients into a pot; we're building layers of taste that develop beautifully over time in the slow cooker's gentle heat. The result is a creamy, rich chowder with tender chicken and sweet corn – a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 (15 ounce) cans whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of potato soup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: chopped chives, shredded cheddar cheese, croutons
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor that slow cooking alone can't achieve.
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Slow Cooker Magic: Transfer the sautéed vegetables and chicken breasts to your slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, corn, cream of potato soup, heavy cream (or half-and-half), thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Cook Low and Slow: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
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Shred and Stir: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the chowder and stir to combine.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped chives, shredded cheddar cheese, or croutons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions people have about making slow cooker corn chicken chowder.
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen corn! Just add it directly to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen corn will take a little longer to cook through.
How can I make this chowder thicker?
If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can simmer it uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water towards the end of the cooking time.
Can I make this recipe in a regular pot on the stovetop?
Yes! Simply sauté the vegetables as directed, then add all the ingredients to a large pot and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
What kind of chicken should I use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, as they cook evenly and shred easily. However, you could also use leftover cooked chicken for added convenience.
Can I add other vegetables to this chowder?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as potatoes, peas, or green beans. Just add them along with the carrots and celery in step 1.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Corn Chicken Chowder
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Make sure to check for doneness before shredding.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking before serving.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings to customize your chowder. Bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley are all delicious options.
- Make it ahead: This chowder tastes even better the next day! It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy your delicious and effortless slow cooker corn chicken chowder! Let me know in the comments how yours turned out!
