Introduction to Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
When the weather cools down, nothing warms the soul quite like a comforting bowl of slow cooker chicken corn chowder. This hearty dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine coming home after a long day to the tantalizing aroma of savory chicken, sweet corn, and crispy turkey bacon wafting through your kitchen. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe truly embodies the magic of slow cooking.
Why Choose Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder?
Slow cooker chicken corn chowder is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a creamy, rich chowder that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, meaning fewer dishes to wash!
This chowder is not only satisfying but also highly customizable. You can add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or even throw in some extra veggies to boost nutrition. For more recipes and insights on healthy cooking, check out resources like the American Heart Association or Eatright.org. In short, this chowder is a winner in every sense—easy to prepare, delicious, and comforting. What more could you ask for?
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
When craving a warm and hearty dish, look no further than this delightful slow cooker chicken corn chowder. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a comforting choice for a chilly evening or a cozy gathering with friends. Let’s break down the fantastic ingredients you’ll need:
- 3 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts: The protein base that keeps this chowder satisfying.
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth: For a flavorful and hydrating foundation.
- 5 small red, gold, or brown potatoes: Chop these into 1-inch pieces — they add heartiness.
- 1 8-ounce can diced green chiles: Bringing a gentle kick and depth to the chowder.
- 1 small white or yellow onion, diced: Onions add sweetness as they sauté and combine.
- 2 cans cream-style corn: The star of the show, creating that creamy texture.
- 2 cups heavy cream: For richness; substitute with half & half for a lighter option.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: To enhance the overall flavor profile.
- 4-6 strips of turkey bacon, diced and cooked until crispy: An essential for that smoky crunch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust to your palate for the perfect seasoning.
- Freshly chopped parsley: A bright finishing touch that elevates the dish.
These ingredients combine beautifully in a slow cooker, making your meal prep stress-free. If you're interested in enhancing your chowder further, consider adding some fresh herbs or spices. For more cooking tips, check out this guide on using slow cookers. Happy cooking!
Step-by-Step Preparation for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Making slow cooker chicken corn chowder is not only simple but also a delightful way to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal fuss. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious chowder that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Gather All Ingredients
To get started, first, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients handy. This step saves time and prevents those last-minute runs to the store. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 5 small potatoes (red, gold, or brown), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 can (8 ounces) diced green chiles
- 1 small white or yellow onion, diced
- 2 cans of cream-style corn
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half & half for a lighter option)
- 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
Once everything is assembled, you'll find the cooking process goes very smoothly. Pro tip: prepping while enjoying some music or a podcast can make this step even more enjoyable!
Prepare the Base in the Slow Cooker
Now, let’s get cooking! Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, and pour in the chicken broth. Add the potatoes, green chiles, diced onion, and cream-style corn. Give everything a good stir to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. This is the delicious base of your chowder. Cover it and set your slow cooker on low for about four hours.
Here, your slow cooker is working its magic, tenderizing the chicken and infusing the flavors. If you want to know more about the benefits of slow cooking, check out this article.
Shred the Chicken
After those four hours, it’s time to unveil your chowder. Gently remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. It will be perfectly tender and easy to pull apart. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, ensuring it’s mixed well with the other ingredients.
Add Cream and Seasonings
Next, stir in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the garlic powder, along with cooked turkey bacon. This is where your slow cooker chicken corn chowder really comes together! Taste it and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Allow this mixture to cook for another 15-20 minutes on low, ensuring it’s warmed through and celebrated in flavor.
Serve It Up!
Once your chowder is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and cracked black pepper for that extra touch. Enjoying this rich and hearty chowder can transform any ordinary day into a special occasion. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Feel free to experiment with additional toppings, such as cheese or avocado. You’ll find that each bowl of slow cooker chicken corn chowder is as delightful as the last!
Variations on Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Spicy Chicken Corn Chowder
If you're in the mood for a kick, try a spicy twist on your classic slow cooker chicken corn chowder. Simply add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to elevate the heat. You could also toss in a scoop of your favorite hot sauce while cooking to create a rich, zesty flavor that will warm you from the inside out. If you crave something smokier, consider adding a few slices of smoked turkey bacon instead of regular turkey bacon—what a treat!
Creamy Mushroom Corn Chowder
For a savory, earthy flavor, substitute some of the cream with a tasty mushroom broth and add sautéed mushrooms to your slow cooker chicken corn chowder. This variation brings a rich, umami depth to every spoonful. Another option is to blend in a handful of fresh spinach or kale for an instant nutrient boost while adding a lovely green hue. Pairing this chowder with a side of crusty bread makes for a delightful, hearty meal.
Explore these options to customize your chowder experience and impress your friends at your next cozy gathering!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
When making this slow cooker chicken corn chowder, here are some handy tips to elevate your dish:
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Texture Matters: If you prefer a smoother chowder, consider blending a portion of the mixture before adding the cream. This creates a creamy base while keeping some hearty chunks.
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Season to Taste: The flavor of your chowder can be adjusted easily! Feel free to add herbs like thyme or a dash of smoked paprika for depth.
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Bacon Substitutes: Don't have turkey bacon? You can easily swap it for diced chicken ham or even some crispy shallots for a unique twist.
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Prep Ahead: Chopping your veggies the night before can save you precious time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge!
Keep these tips in mind for an unforgettable chowder experience, and don't hesitate to tweak the recipe to suit your taste!
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
When you're ready to dive into a delicious bowl of slow cooker chicken corn chowder, think beyond just the soup itself. Here are some delightful serving suggestions!
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Toppings Galore: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, crispy diced turkey bacon, or even a dollop of sour cream to elevate each bowl. A dash of hot sauce can spice things up if you're feeling adventurous.
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Pairing Options: Serve with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up that creamy goodness. A light side salad can also balance out the richness while adding some freshness.
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Leftovers Love: This chowder makes for excellent leftovers. Reheat it the next day for a quick lunch, or serve it in bread bowls for a fun twist!
For more tips on making the most of your chowder experience, check out Bon Appétit's serving guide. Enjoy every savory spoonful!
Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Preparation Time
Preparing your slow cooker chicken corn chowder is a breeze! You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and chop those delicious potatoes and onions.
Cooking Time
Once everything is ready to go in the slow cooker, set it to cook on low for 4 hours. After that, an extra 15-20 minutes will let those rich flavors meld beautifully when you stir in the heavy cream and crispy turkey bacon.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes from start to finish. Not too long for such a comforting, hearty meal! Give it time to work its magic, and enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your home.
For a few tips on maximizing your slow cooker’s potential, check out this helpful guide to slow cooking. And if you're curious about the health benefits of incorporating more soups into your diet, this nutrition article has some great insights!
Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
When you're savoring your bowl of slow cooker chicken corn chowder, it helps to know what you’re enjoying! Here's a quick breakdown of the nutritional content:
Calories
Each serving contains approximately 895 calories, making it a hearty meal that can keep you satisfied for hours.
Protein
With about 34 grams of protein per serving, this chowder is great for muscle repair and keeping your energy levels up—perfect for those busy days ahead!
Sodium
This chowder has around 946 mg of sodium. To keep it healthier, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and adjust the seasoning to fit your taste!
For more insights on healthy eating habits, check out resources from the American Heart Association.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a great time-saver. Just remember that it might extend the cooking time a bit. Since your slow cooker will take longer to heat up, consider adding an extra hour to the initial 4 hours on low. This way, you’ll still end up with tender, flavorful chicken in your slow cooker chicken corn chowder.
How can I make it healthier?
Looking to lighten things up? You can make several swaps:
- Substitute heavy cream with half & half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for fewer calories.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like kale or zucchini for added fiber and nutrients. Even incorporating lean chicken ham can enhance flavor without sacrificing health.
What should I serve with this chowder?
Pairing options for slow cooker chicken corn chowder are plentiful! Try serving it with:
- A fresh green salad for a light side.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread for a comforting feel.
- Cornbread for a delightful twist that complements the chowder's flavors.
By answering these common queries, we hope to make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable! If you're still curious, dive into more details about slow cooker meals on trusted cooking sites like Allrecipes and Food Network.
Conclusion on Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
In summary, this slow cooker chicken corn chowder is a delightful way to savor comforting flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s creamy, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy a warm bowl today!
Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Equipment
- slow cooker
Ingredients
Main 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 substitute half & half
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4-6 strips bacon diced and cooked until crispy
- salt and pepper to taste
- freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
Cooking 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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