Classic Chicken Corn Chowder
This recipe creates a hearty and flavorful chicken corn chowder, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 (15-oz) can creamed corn
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen corn
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Cooking Guide:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the pot.
- Heat olive oil in the pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in chicken broth, thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add diced potatoes and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
- Stir in creamed corn, frozen corn, and shredded chicken. Heat through for 5 minutes.
- (Optional) If desired, stir in heavy cream for a richer chowder.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with reserved bacon crumbles and fresh parsley (optional).
Tips:
- For a thicker chowder, mash some of the cooked potatoes in the pot before adding the creamed corn.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to this chowder, such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers.
- Change up the protein! Shrimp, fish, or even sausage can be substituted for the chicken.
- For a spicier chowder, add a diced jalapeno pepper with the onion and celery.