Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Welcome to your next favorite meal! There’s something uniquely comforting about a warm bowl of hearty chowder, especially when it’s as effortlessly delicious as this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder. Imagine tender chicken, sweet corn, creamy potatoes, and a medley of aromatic vegetables, all swimming in a rich, savory broth that has simmered to perfection for hours, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to simplify your dinner routine without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or feeding a hungry crowd, this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder delivers maximum taste with minimal fuss, making it a staple in any kitchen.

The beauty of this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder lies in its set-it-and-forget-it approach. You simply combine the ingredients, let your slow cooker do the magic, and return hours later to a perfectly cooked, soul-warming meal. No constant stirring, no elaborate techniques just pure, unadulterated comfort food. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a depth that rapid cooking simply can’t achieve. From the subtle sweetness of corn to the earthy notes of thyme and the rich creaminess of the broth, every spoonful is a symphony of textures and tastes. Get ready to add this incredible Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder to your family’s rotation; it’s guaranteed to become a beloved favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe

This Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug on a spoon, designed to bring warmth and joy to your table with minimal effort. There are countless reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this particular rendition of a classic comfort dish.

Firstly, the sheer convenience is unmatched. In our fast-paced lives, finding time to prepare wholesome, home-cooked meals can be a challenge. That’s where your slow cooker becomes your best friend. With this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder, the vast majority of the cooking is hands-off. A bit of chopping and then it’s simply a matter of layering ingredients into the pot, setting the timer, and walking away. Imagine coming home after a long day to the enticing aroma of a perfectly cooked dinner, ready and waiting. This recipe frees up your evening, allowing you to focus on family, hobbies, or simply relaxing.

Secondly, the flavor profile is incredibly rich and satisfying. The slow cooking process tenderizes the chicken to perfection, making it effortlessly shreddable and infusing it with all the savory notes of the chicken broth and aromatic vegetables. The corn adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements, while the potatoes contribute a comforting creaminess. Herbs like thyme and a careful balance of garlic and onion powder ensure that every bite of this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is bursting with well-rounded, deeply satisfying flavor. It’s hearty without being heavy, and comforting without being bland.

Furthermore, this recipe offers fantastic flexibility and versatility. While the core ingredients for this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder create a sublime result, you have the freedom to customize it to your family’s preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t have celery? No problem. Want to add a touch of spice? Go for it! The final roux and cream addition allows you to control the thickness and richness, ensuring it’s just to your liking. It’s a forgiving recipe that encourages creativity in the kitchen.

Finally, it’s a truly family-friendly meal. Even the pickiest eaters often warm up to a creamy, mild, and flavorful chowder. The combination of familiar ingredients like chicken, potatoes, and corn makes it approachable for children, while the depth of flavor keeps adults coming back for more. It’s a dish that unites everyone around the dinner table, making mealtime a cherished shared experience. This Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is designed to be a crowd-pleaser, providing warmth, nourishment, and deliciousness in every single serving.

Why You Should Try This Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Today

In a world brimming with complex recipes and fleeting food trends, this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder stands out as a timeless classic, offering undeniable reasons to make it your next culinary endeavor. If you’re seeking a dish that effortlessly blends convenience, comfort, and incredible flavor, look no further. This chowder isn’t just about feeding your body; it’s about nourishing your soul and simplifying your life.

One compelling reason to try this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is its remarkable simplicity meets sophistication. Despite the profound depth of flavor you’ll achieve, the actual cooking process is incredibly straightforward. It proves that you don’t need gourmet skills or a myriad of exotic ingredients to create a truly memorable meal. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, allowing humble ingredients to transform into something extraordinary. This empowers even novice cooks to create a dish that tastes like it came from a professional kitchen, fostering confidence and joy in cooking.

Moreover, this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is an excellent choice for meal prep and batch cooking. Imagine making a large batch on a Sunday and having delicious, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week. Chowders often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld and deepen. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners when you’re short on time. This proactive approach to meal planning can save you money, reduce food waste, and ensure you always have a wholesome option readily available.

Beyond its convenience, this chowder offers significant nutritional benefits. Packed with lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates and fiber from the potatoes and vegetables, and essential vitamins and minerals, this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a wholesome meal in one bowl. You’re getting a balanced mix of macronutrients and micronutrients that will keep you feeling full, energized, and satisfied. It’s comfort food that you can feel good about eating, knowing you’re fueling your body with quality ingredients.

Lastly, consider the sheer comfort and nostalgic appeal of a creamy chowder. It evokes feelings of warmth, home, and simpler times. On a cold day, after a long week, or when you just need a culinary hug, a bowl of this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder hits all the right notes. It’s a dish that can lift spirits, soothe weary bones, and gather loved ones around the table for a shared moment of coziness. It’s more than just food; it’s an experience. So, do yourself a favor and experience the magic of this easy, delicious, and incredibly satisfying Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder today.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Crafting the perfect Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder begins with selecting the right ingredients and having the appropriate tools at hand. This section will walk you through everything you need to create this comforting masterpiece, ensuring success from start to finish.

Essential Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: This is the lean protein powerhouse of our Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder. Chicken breasts are leaner, offering a tender bite, while thighs provide a richer flavor and are more forgiving if overcooked, staying incredibly moist. Choose what you prefer, or even a mix of both for balanced texture and taste. Make sure they are boneless and skinless for easy shredding later.
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred): The foundation of our chowder’s liquid base. Using low sodium broth gives you greater control over the final saltiness of your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder, allowing you to season to taste without worrying about it becoming too salty. It contributes significantly to the savory depth.
• 2 (15-ounce) cans whole kernel corn, drained, or 3 cups frozen corn (no need to thaw): Sweet corn is a star in this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder, adding bursts of natural sweetness and vibrant color. Canned corn is convenient and readily available, but frozen corn works beautifully too and often has a fresher taste. No need to thaw frozen corn; it will cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
• 3 large potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes: Potatoes are crucial for the chowder’s hearty texture and creaminess. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best; Russets will break down more, adding thickness, while Yukon Golds hold their shape a bit better and offer a buttery flavor. Dicing them into uniform 1/2-inch cubes ensures even cooking throughout your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder.
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced: Aromatic and foundational, the onion adds a sweet and savory base note to the Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder. Finely dicing it ensures it melts into the chowder, providing flavor without noticeable chunks.
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced: Celery contributes a subtle savory and earthy note, along with a bit of texture to the mirepoix base of the chowder. Like the onion, fine dicing helps it integrate seamlessly.
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely diced: Carrots add natural sweetness, color, and essential nutrients to your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder. Finely dicing them allows them to become tender and blend into the chowder’s overall consistency.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A convenient way to infuse garlic flavor without the sharpness of fresh garlic, ensuring a consistent, mellow garlic presence throughout the chowder.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor already present from the fresh onion, adding a deeper, more rounded onion note.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, but recommended for depth): Thyme is a classic herb that pairs wonderfully with chicken and vegetables, adding an earthy, slightly minty, and peppery flavor that truly elevates the complexity of this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder. Don’t skip it if you can!
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground: Freshly ground black pepper offers a superior aroma and bolder flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. It adds a gentle warmth and zest.
• 1 teaspoon salt, or more to taste: Salt is vital for bringing out and balancing all the flavors in your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder. Starting with a moderate amount allows you to adjust later, ensuring perfect seasoning.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Essential for creating the roux, which will thicken our chowder. Unsalted butter gives you control over the overall salt content of the dish.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: The thickening agent in our roux. All-purpose flour creates a smooth, creamy consistency when cooked with butter and incorporated into the chowder.
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: The finishing touch that provides the rich, luxurious creaminess characteristic of a great chowder. Heavy cream makes it incredibly decadent, while half-and-half offers a lighter, yet still creamy, alternative.
• Optional garnishes:
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy tang and gooey texture.
  • Cooked and crumbled bacon: Provides a crispy texture and smoky, salty punch.
  • Fresh chives or chopped green onions: Offer a fresh, mild oniony bite and vibrant color.

Necessary Utensils and Equipment:

• 6-quart or larger slow cooker (Crockpot): This is the star appliance for your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder. A 6-quart size is ideal for the volume of ingredients in this recipe, ensuring everything fits comfortably and cooks evenly. A larger size is also perfectly fine.
• Sharp chef’s knife: Essential for efficiently and safely dicing your potatoes, onion, celery, and carrots into uniform pieces.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable and hygienic surface for all your chopping needs.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Crucial for accurate measurement of liquid ingredients, dry ingredients, and spices, ensuring the flavors are balanced in your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder.
• Large ladle: Useful for transferring broth from the slow cooker to the saucepan for tempering the roux, and for serving the finished chowder.
• Medium saucepan: Specifically for preparing the roux. Its size is perfect for whisking the butter and flour, and for tempering with the hot broth.
• Whisk: Absolutely vital for creating a smooth, lump-free roux and for whisking in the broth to temper it. A good whisk will prevent frustrating clumps in your chowder.
• Tongs or slotted spoon: For safely removing the hot, cooked chicken from the slow cooker without bringing too much liquid with it.
• Two forks: The simplest and most effective tools for shredding the tender cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces for your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder.
• Serving bowls: To present your warm, delicious chowder.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Unforgettable Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Making this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a straightforward process, but paying attention to each step ensures a perfectly creamy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal. Follow these detailed instructions to create a truly unforgettable chowder.

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker Base: Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs directly into the bottom of your 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer if possible. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and is fully submerged by the liquid and vegetables, allowing it to become incredibly tender and easy to shred later.
2. Add Vegetables: Evenly distribute the diced potatoes, finely diced yellow onion, finely diced celery, finely diced carrots, and the drained canned corn (or frozen corn) over the chicken in the slow cooker pot. Uniform dicing is key here, especially for the potatoes, as it ensures everything cooks at the same rate. Don’t worry about stirring yet; just layer them neatly.
3. Season Generously: Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme (if using, and highly recommended for that classic chowder depth), black pepper, and the initial 1 teaspoon of salt over all the vegetables and chicken in the slow cooker. This initial seasoning is crucial; it permeates the ingredients as they cook, building layers of flavor from the very beginning.
4. Pour in Broth: Carefully pour the 6 cups of chicken broth over all the ingredients. Make sure most of the vegetables are submerged in the liquid. The broth will be the primary cooking liquid and will infuse all the ingredients with its savory goodness. Ensure sufficient liquid for proper cooking and to contribute to the final creamy consistency of your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder.
5. Cook Until Tender: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the LOW setting for 6 to 8 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 3 to 4 hours. The chowder is ready when the chicken is cooked through and easily shreddable with a fork, and the potatoes are very tender and can be easily mashed. Resist the urge to open the lid frequently, as this releases heat and significantly extends cooking time.
6. Remove and Shred Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the tender chicken pieces from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon and transfer them to a cutting board. Allow the chicken to cool slightly for a few minutes. This makes it easier and safer to handle. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set the shredded chicken aside. The chicken will be incredibly tender, almost falling apart.
7. Prepare the Roux for Thickening: While the chicken cools, prepare the thickening agent for your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder. In a medium saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and begins to slightly bubble, sprinkle in the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to create a smooth, thick paste (this is your roux). Whisking constantly is essential to prevent lumps and to cook out the raw flour taste, which can otherwise make your chowder taste pasty.
8. Temper the Roux: This step is critical for a lump-free chowder. Ladle approximately 1 cup of the hot liquid (broth) from the slow cooker into the saucepan with the roux. Whisk vigorously and continuously until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any lumps. Gradually add another 1 to 2 cups of the hot broth from the slow cooker to the roux mixture, whisking constantly until it is fully incorporated and smooth. This step, called tempering, prevents the roux from clumping when added to the main pot of Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder.
9. Thicken the Chowder Base: Pour the tempered roux mixture back into the slow cooker with the vegetables and remaining broth. Stir everything very well to combine, ensuring the roux is evenly distributed throughout the chowder. The chowder base should begin to thicken as it continues to heat, creating that signature creamy consistency.
10. Add Cream and Shredded Chicken: Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half into the slow cooker. This is where the chowder gets its luxurious, rich texture. Then, return all the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring gently to distribute it throughout the Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder. Be gentle to avoid breaking up the tender vegetables too much.
11. Final Heating and Seasoning Adjustment: Cover the slow cooker again and continue to cook on the HIGH setting for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the chowder is completely heated through and has reached your desired creamy consistency. This final heating allows the cream to warm and the flavors to fully meld after the additions. Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed to suit your preference. A pinch more salt can truly make all the difference.
12. Serve Warm: Ladle the hot and hearty Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder into individual serving bowls. For an extra touch of flavor and texture, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, some crumbled cooked bacon, or fresh chives/chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting meal!

Tips and Variations to Perfect Your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

While the classic Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder recipe is undeniably delicious, there’s always room for personalization and improvement. These tips and variations will help you tailor the chowder to your taste, dietary needs, and ensure consistent success.

Ingredient Alternatives and Dietary Versions:

• Vegetarian/Vegan Adaptation: While this recipe is for chicken chowder, a similar concept can be adapted. Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. For the creaminess, use full-fat canned coconut milk (the thick cream at the top) or a plant-based cream alternative. For the roux, use plant-based butter. Add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more bulk.
• Gluten-Free Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder: This recipe is easily made gluten-free. Simply ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free (most are, but always check labels). For the roux, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (like a rice flour or cornstarch blend, though cornstarch will make a more translucent sauce). A cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup cold water) can also be used as a thickener; add it directly to the slow cooker after the cook time and simmer on high until thickened, then add cream.
• Dairy-Free Option: If you need to avoid dairy, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative for the roux. For the heavy cream, use full-fat canned coconut milk (it will impart a subtle coconut flavor, but often works beautifully in savory dishes) or a dairy-free creamer designed for cooking.
• Spice It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat) along with the other vegetables. A can of diced green chiles can also add a mild warmth to your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Diced red bell peppers add color and sweetness, spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last 30 minutes, or even a can of diced tomatoes for a touch of acidity and tang.
• Smoky Flavor: For an even deeper, smoky flavor profile in your Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder, consider adding 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the other spices, or use a smoked chicken broth if available.

Advice to Avoid Common Mistakes:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: While it might seem tempting to squeeze in extra ingredients, overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a less flavorful result. Stick to the suggested quantities for a 6-quart cooker.
• Resist Lifting the Lid: Every time you lift the lid of your slow cooker, you lose a significant amount of heat and moisture, which can add 20-30 minutes to your cooking time. Trust the process and let it do its work!
• Dice Vegetables Uniformly: Especially for potatoes and carrots, uniform dicing ensures everything cooks at the same rate and becomes tender simultaneously. Inconsistent sizes mean some pieces might be mushy while others are still firm.
• Proper Roux Preparation: The roux is crucial for a smooth, thick chowder. Make sure to whisk constantly when adding flour to butter and when tempering with hot broth. Lumps are the enemy of creamy chowder! Gradually adding hot liquid to the roux while whisking prevents lumps better than adding the roux directly to the main pot.
• Seasoning in Stages: Start with the initial salt amount, but always taste and adjust seasoning at the end. The flavors concentrate during slow cooking, and the addition of cream can mellow the saltiness, so a final adjustment is often needed.
• Cool Chicken Slightly Before Shredding: Trying to shred piping hot chicken is difficult and can burn your hands. Allowing it to cool for a few minutes makes the process much easier and safer.
• Don’t Boil the Cream: Once you add the heavy cream or half-and-half, avoid bringing the chowder to a rolling boil. Simmering gently on high for the final 20-30 minutes is sufficient to heat it through and thicken without causing the cream to separate or curdle.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Beyond its incredible taste and comforting warmth, this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is packed with nutritional benefits, making it a wholesome addition to your meal rotation. While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific brands, portion sizes, and optional ingredients, here’s a general overview of what this hearty chowder brings to your table.

General Nutritional Estimates (per serving, approximately 8 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 calories (varies significantly with cream/half-and-half choice and garnishes)
• Protein: Around 25-35 grams (primarily from chicken)
• Fats: 15-25 grams (includes healthy fats from broth, butter, and cream, but can vary)
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams (from potatoes, corn, and vegetables)
• Fiber: 4-6 grams (from corn, potatoes, and other vegetables)
• Sodium: Varies significantly based on broth choice and added salt. Using low-sodium broth is key to managing this.

Key Nutritional Benefits:

• Excellent Source of Lean Protein: The boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are a fantastic source of high-quality lean protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, satiety, and overall body function. It helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, preventing overeating.
• Rich in Complex Carbohydrates: Potatoes and corn provide complex carbohydrates, which are your body’s primary source of energy. These provide sustained energy release, unlike simple sugars, helping to keep blood sugar levels stable.
• Abundant in Vitamins and Minerals:
  • Potatoes: A good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, potassium, and manganese. Potassium is vital for blood pressure regulation and fluid balance.
  • Corn: Provides dietary fiber, B vitamins (especially folate), Vitamin C, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health.
  • Carrots: Loaded with beta-carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A, crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health. They also provide Vitamin K and fiber.
  • Celery: Offers Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and a good amount of fiber.
  • Onions: Contain Vitamin C, B vitamins, and powerful antioxidants, contributing to overall immune health.
• Dietary Fiber: The corn, potatoes, and other vegetables contribute dietary fiber. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, promoting regularity, and can help manage cholesterol levels. It also adds to the feeling of fullness.
• Hydration: The generous amount of chicken broth contributes to your daily fluid intake, which is important for all bodily functions, including nutrient transport and temperature regulation.
• Comforting and Satisfying: While not a direct nutritional benefit, the psychological comfort derived from a warm, hearty bowl of Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder can reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being, which indirectly supports overall health. This is particularly valuable during colder months or stressful periods.

By choosing low-sodium broth and being mindful of your added salt, this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder can be a nutritious and delicious part of a balanced diet. It’s a testament that comfort food can indeed be wholesome and beneficial for your body.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

As we wrap up our journey through this delightful recipe, it’s clear that Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients, slow cooking, and a touch of culinary magic. We’ve explored how incredibly easy it is to prepare, allowing your slow cooker to do the heavy lifting while you enjoy your day. From the perfectly tender shredded chicken to the creamy potatoes and sweet burst of corn, every spoonful is a harmonious blend of textures and deeply satisfying flavors that truly embody comfort food.

This Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is not only a fantastic weeknight solution but also a versatile dish that can be tailored to various dietary needs and taste preferences. We’ve covered everything from ensuring a lump-free roux to clever ingredient substitutions and thoughtful garnishes that elevate the experience. Moreover, understanding the nutritional benefits underscores that this hearty dish is both indulgent and wholesome, providing essential protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

If you’re looking for an efficient way to get a nutritious and delicious dinner on the table without hours of standing over the stove, this Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is your answer. It’s a family-friendly classic that promises to warm both body and soul, leaving everyone at your table feeling nourished and content. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and prepare to be amazed by the rich aromas and incredible taste that will soon fill your home. For more heartwarming and easy recipes, make sure to check out our Easy Family Dinners collection or discover our Hearty Soup Recipes for more inspiration.

We genuinely hope this detailed guide inspires you to try this wonderful Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder recipe soon. Don’t forget to come back and share your experience and any creative variations you tried in the comments below. Happy cooking, and enjoy every comforting bite!

Hearty Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

This comforting Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is an easy, flavorful meal packed with tender chicken, creamy potatoes, sweet corn, and a rich broth, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Chowder, Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Chowder Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 6 cups chicken broth low sodium preferred
• 2 (15-ounce) cans whole kernel corn drained, or 3 cups frozen corn (no need to thaw)
• 3 large potatoes about 2 pounds, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
• 2 stalks celery finely diced
• 2 medium carrots peeled and finely diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional, but recommended for depth
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
• 1 teaspoon salt or more to taste

For Thickening and Finishing

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Optional Garnishes

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cooked and crumbled bacon
• Fresh chives or chopped green onions

Equipment

• 6-Quart or Larger Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Tongs or slotted spoon

Method

 

Slow Cooker Preparation

1. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs directly into the bottom of your 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Arrange them in a single layer if possible.
2. Evenly distribute the diced potatoes, finely diced yellow onion, finely diced celery, finely diced carrots, and the drained canned corn (or frozen corn) over the chicken in the slow cooker pot.
3. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme (if using), black pepper, and the initial 1 teaspoon of salt over all the vegetables and chicken. This ensures the flavors will meld as it cooks.
4. Carefully pour the 6 cups of chicken broth over all the ingredients. Make sure most of the vegetables are submerged in the liquid.

Cooking the Chowder

1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the LOW setting for 6 to 8 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 3 to 4 hours. The chowder is ready when the chicken is cooked through and easily shreddable, and the potatoes are very tender and can be easily mashed with a fork.
2. Once cooked, carefully remove the tender chicken pieces from the slow cooker using tongs or a slotted spoon and transfer them to a cutting board. Allow the chicken to cool slightly for a few minutes. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set the shredded chicken aside.

Thickening and Finishing

1. While the chicken cools, prepare the thickening agent. In a medium saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and begins to slightly bubble, sprinkle in the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to create a smooth, thick paste (this is your roux), cooking out the raw flour taste.
2. Ladle approximately 1 cup of the hot liquid (broth) from the slow cooker into the saucepan with the roux. Whisk vigorously and continuously until the mixture is completely smooth and free of any lumps. Gradually add another 1 to 2 cups of the hot broth from the slow cooker to the roux mixture, whisking constantly until it is fully incorporated and smooth. This step, called tempering, prevents the roux from clumping when added to the main pot.
3. Pour the tempered roux mixture back into the slow cooker with the vegetables and remaining broth. Stir everything very well to combine. The chowder base should begin to thicken as it continues to heat.
4. Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half into the slow cooker. Then, return all the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring gently to distribute it throughout the chowder.
5. Cover the slow cooker again and continue to cook on the HIGH setting for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the chowder is completely heated through and has reached your desired creamy consistency. Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed to suit your preference.

Serving

1. Ladle the hot and hearty Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder into individual serving bowls. For an extra touch of flavor and texture, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, some crumbled cooked bacon, or fresh chives/chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For quicker prep, consider using a pre-chopped mirepoix mix (celery, carrots, onion). This chowder thickens as it cools; if reheating, you may need to add a splash more broth or milk to achieve desired consistency. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This chowder is also great served with crusty bread or cornbread on the side.