Introduction to Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
What is slow cooker chicken corn chowder?
Slow cooker chicken corn chowder is a hearty and creamy soup combining tender chicken, sweet corn, and potatoes, all simmered together to create a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. This recipe allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, resulting in a flavorful chowder that's rich and satisfying. It’s a versatile meal that works well for both busy weekdays and laid-back weekends.
Why choose the slow cooker method?
Opting for the slow cooker method means you can set it and forget it! With just 10 minutes of prep, you can go about your day while your chowder cooks to perfection. The slow cooker allows flavors to deepen and develop, creating a delightful taste experience that’s hard to replicate with other cooking methods. Plus, cooking in the slow cooker often results in less mess, making cleanup a breeze. This hassle-free approach is ideal for young professionals trying to balance work, social life, and healthy eating.
So, if you’re looking to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without the fuss, this slow cooker chicken corn chowder might just become your new go-to recipe. And don’t forget to check out ways to make it your own, like adding a touch of heat with red pepper flakes!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Creating a cozy bowl of slow cooker chicken corn chowder starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful recipe:
List of Ingredients Needed
- 3 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 5 small red, gold, or brown potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces (red potatoes bring great flavor)
- 1 (8-ounce) can diced green chiles
- 1 small white or yellow onion, diced
- 2 cans cream-style corn
- 2 cups heavy cream (or half & half for a lighter touch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4-6 turkey bacon strips, diced and cooked till crispy
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish
Tips for Ingredient Quality
To elevate your slow cooker chicken corn chowder, consider these tips:
- Freshness Counts: Always select fresh, high-quality chicken and veggies for the best flavor. Check local farmers' markets for fresh produce.
- Low Sodium Broth: Opt for low sodium chicken broth to control the salt levels while enhancing taste.
- Creamy Texture: Using heavy cream versus half & half can make a significant difference in creaminess, so choose according to your preference.
- Turkey Bacon: If you’re health-conscious, turkey bacon is a fantastic alternative and adds a great smoky flavor.
With these ingredients and tips, you're well on your way to creating a delicious slow cooker chicken corn chowder that your friends and family will love!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Creating a warm and comforting bowl of slow cooker chicken corn chowder is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to make this delightful dish in your slow cooker, perfect for cozy evenings. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get started!
Gather and prep your ingredients
Before diving into cooking, it's essential to have everything ready. 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 (8-ounce) can diced green chiles
- 1 small white or yellow onion, diced
- 2 cans 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 you gather your ingredients, take a few moments to prep by washing, chopping, and measuring everything out. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable!
Combine ingredients in the slow cooker
Next, it’s time to mix everything in your slow cooker. Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of the pot; they absorb all the yummy flavors. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by adding the potatoes, diced green chiles, chopped onion, and the cream-style corn. Stir gently to combine everything well. Make sure it’s all tucked in together for an evenly cooked chicken corn chowder.
Cook on low and shred chicken
Now that everything is combined, cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 4 hours. This is the perfect time to relax, catch up on a favorite show, or check out this guide on healthy cooking. Once the cooking time is up, carefully uncover and take two forks to shred the chicken right in the slow cooker. This will give your chowder its creamy, hearty texture.
Add cream and seasonings
After shredding the chicken, it’s time to bring your chowder to life! Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, and crispy Turkey bacon. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully. For an added kick, consider tossing in some crushed red pepper flakes!
Serve and enjoy!
Now comes the best part—serving! Ladle your slow cooker chicken corn chowder into bowls, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and cracked black pepper. It’s a hearty meal meant to be shared with loved ones, perfect for chilly evenings. Enjoy every creamy, savory spoonful, and watch as this chowder becomes a favorite in your recipe lineup!
For more warm and comforting recipes, check out Tiffany Azure's blog where you can discover delicious meal ideas!
Variations on Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Spicy Chicken Corn Chowder
If you love a little kick, spice things up by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or even a few diced jalapeños. You can also use a dash of your favorite hot sauce to give your slow cooker chicken corn chowder an extra layer of flavor. For an adventurous twist, consider adding chipotles in adobo sauce, which will elevate the smoky and spicy notes in your chowder.
Chicken Corn Chowder with Extra Veggies
Want to boost your veggie intake? Toss in diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini! Not only will these additions enhance the flavor profile, but they’ll also add a vibrant color to your slow cooker chicken corn chowder. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those nutrients without sacrificing on taste!
For more ideas, check out EatingWell's healthy chowder variations for inspiration!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Prepping Ingredients Ahead of Time
To streamline your cooking experience, consider prepping your ingredients the night before. Chop the onions, dice the potatoes, and have your chicken ready to go in the fridge. This way, you can simply toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that evening—no fuss!
Adjusting Thickness and Creaminess
If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes against the sides of the slow cooker about halfway through cooking. This will create a creamier texture without adding unnecessary starches. For an extra boost of creaminess, feel free to replace some of the heavy cream with half & half. Remember, the slow cooker chicken corn chowder can easily be tailored to fit your tastes!
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Ideal Pairings and Side Dishes
To truly complement your slow cooker chicken corn chowder, consider serving it with:
- Crusty Bread: Freshly baked baguette or sourdough for dipping.
- Salad: A light greens salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors.
- Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread adds a fabulous texture contrast.
These sides not only enhance the chowder but also make it a complete meal.
Garnishes to Elevate Your Chowder
Finish your chicken corn chowder with a touch of flair through garnishes. Try:
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped chives or cilantro brightens the dish.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar or crumbled feta offers a creamy bite.
- Avocado Slices: Adds creaminess and a healthy fat.
Each garnish brings a unique twist that elevates your chowder from comforting to extraordinary!
Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Preparation Time
Getting started is a breeze with just 10 minutes of prep. Simply chop your veggies, dice the turkey bacon, and toss everything into the slow cooker. It's the perfect opportunity to unwind after a long day or catch up on your favorite podcast.
Cooking Time
Set it and forget it! This slow cooker chicken corn chowder cooks on low for 4 hours. During this time, the flavors meld perfectly, creating a warm and comforting soup that's sure to please.
Total Time
In just 4 hours and 10 minutes, you'll have a delicious meal ready to share. Enjoy the extra time for yourself or to catch up with friends and family—dinner is already handled!
Ready to dig in? This chowder will quickly become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. For more tips on cooking with a slow cooker, check out The Kitchn's Guide on slow cooking techniques!
Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
When it comes to comfort food, slow cooker chicken corn chowder hits the mark. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional values, helping you savor each delicious bite guilt-free.
Calories
This creamy chowder is hearty, with approximately 895 calories per serving. It's filling enough to be a meal on its own, perfect for a cozy night in.
Protein
Packed with 34 grams of protein, this dish is a great option for those looking to stay energized throughout the day. The chicken provides a lean source of protein that's essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Sodium
With 946 mg of sodium per serving, it's advisable to watch your salt intake. To reduce sodium levels, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and season to taste.
Enjoy a warm bowl of slow cooker chicken corn chowder without compromising on flavor! For more information on healthy eating, check out Healthline.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
How can I make this chowder healthier?
If you’re looking to enjoy a lighter version of this slow cooker chicken corn chowder, consider a few easy modifications:
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a reduced calorie option.
- Add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to boost fiber and nutrients.
- Use lean turkey bacon in place of regular bacon for a lower fat choice. This keeps the delicious flavor while enhancing the health factor.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Just add the frozen chicken breasts directly to the slow cooker with the other ingredients, and extend the cooking time by about an hour. This way, you won’t sacrifice flavor for convenience. For more tips on cooking with frozen ingredients, check out this informative guide.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your chowder fresh, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Storing your slow cooker chicken corn chowder in the fridge allows it to last for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 5 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating! Enjoy your cozy meal again and again.
Conclusion on Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
In summary, slow cooker chicken corn chowder is a fantastic dish that's both comforting and convenient. Ideal for busy weeknights, this chowder combines tender chicken with creamy goodness, packed with flavor. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder
Equipment
- Slow cooker
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 sub half & half for a lighter version
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4-6 strips bacon diced and cooked till crispy
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- freshly chopped parsley
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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