Easy Chicken Corn Chowder for Any Day

Whip up a creamy, comforting Chicken Corn Chowder packed with fresh veggies and smoked turkey bacon for any day of the week. This hearty soup brings together tender chicken, sweet corn, and savory flavors that will warm you up and satisfy your taste buds effortlessly. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this classic chowder is your go-to recipe for rich texture and delightful taste made simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that come together quickly.
• Rich Creaminess: A luscious base that feels indulgent without heaviness.
• Balanced Flavors: Sweet corn pairs beautifully with smoky turkey bacon and fresh herbs.
• Customizable: Easy to add your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings to fit your mood.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Perfect for any day when you need a cozy meal that’s satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Chicken Corn Chowder plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From juicy chicken pieces to vibrant vegetables, here’s what you’ll want to have on hand to make this dish shine.

• Chicken breast or thighs: Provides tender, juicy protein that soaks up the chowder’s flavors.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a smoky, savory crunch that elevates every bite.
• Fresh corn kernels: Brings sweetness and delightful texture to the soup.
• Onions and celery: Foundational aromatics that deepen the chowder’s savory base.
• Carrots: Offer subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
• Garlic: Essential for adding warmth and complexity.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Boosts umami without overpowering the other flavors.
• Vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid base for the chowder.
• Plant-based cream (plant-based): Makes the soup luxuriously creamy without dairy.
• Natural gelling agent: Helps create that perfect, velvety chowder consistency.
• Fresh thyme and parsley: Bright, herbal notes that lift the entire dish.
• Salt and pepper: To season perfectly and make every ingredient pop.

Variations for Chicken Corn Chowder

This Chicken Corn Chowder recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to tailor it easily to what you have in the kitchen or your dietary needs. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Vegetable boost: Swap turkey bacon for mushroom bacon or add zucchini and bell peppers for extra veggies.
• Spicy kick: Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for warmth and complexity.
• Herb swap: Use rosemary or chives if thyme or parsley aren’t handy.
• Grain addition: Toss in cooked millet or quinoa to add hearty texture and extra nutrients.
• Plant-based protein: Replace chicken with firm tofu or seitan cubes for a vegetarian-friendly chowder.

How to Make Chicken Corn Chowder

Step 1: Prepare the Smoked Turkey Bacon and Vegetables

Start by chopping the smoked turkey bacon into small pieces and cook in a large pot over medium heat until crispy, then remove and set aside. In the same pot, sauté diced onions, celery, carrots, and garlic until they soften and release their delightful aromas.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned on the outside. This step seals in juices and adds lovely texture to the chowder.

Step 3: Add Broth and Corn

Pour in the vegetable broth, then add fresh corn kernels and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This helps ingredients meld into a harmonious flavor blend.

Step 4: Enrich with Plant-Based Cream and Natural Gelling Agent

Stir in the plant-based cream and sprinkle in a carefully measured amount of natural gelling agent to give the chowder its creamy, slightly thickened texture. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Season and Finish

Mix in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), fresh thyme, and parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Let it cook a few more minutes so the flavors truly come together.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Corn Chowder

• Use fresh corn: Fresh kernels deliver the best sweetness and texture compared to canned or frozen options.
• Reserve some bacon crispiness: Set a few cooked pieces aside for garnishing just before serving.
• Don’t skip the natural gelling agent: It’s key to that authentic chowder creaminess without heaviness.
• Low and slow simmer: Helps meld flavors while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
• Adjust salt at the end: Helps you avoid over-seasoning and balances flavors perfectly.

How to Serve Chicken Corn Chowder

Garnishes

Top your bowl with crispy smoked turkey bacon pieces, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a light drizzle of plant-based cream (plant-based) for an appetizing finish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Side Dishes

Serve the chowder alongside crusty whole-grain bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a full, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your chowder in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or large bell peppers to wow your guests and add an eye-catching touch to your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover chicken corn chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Flavors will deepen wonderfully overnight, making for an even more delicious meal the next day.

Freezing

This chowder freezes well. Pour into portion-sized containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat the chowder on low heat with an occasional stir to maintain its creamy texture. If it thickens too much, add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen it back up.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Corn Chowder dairy-free?

Absolutely. Using plant-based cream (plant-based) instead of traditional dairy cream makes this recipe creamy without any dairy ingredients.

Is smoked turkey bacon necessary?

Smoked turkey bacon adds a lovely smoky flavor, but you can substitute with other smoked plant-based alternatives or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

Can I use frozen corn for this chowder?

Yes, frozen corn works well if fresh isn’t available just add it directly to the simmering broth without thawing first.

How thick should the chowder be?

The ideal consistency is creamy and slightly thick, not too runny, thanks to the natural gelling agent that helps give it that smooth, velvety finish.

What can I add if I want extra veggies?

Try adding diced potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost the vegetable content and add more texture and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Corn Chowder is a timeless dish that brings warmth and deliciousness to your table in one comforting bowl. Once you try this creamy, veggie-packed version with smoky turkey bacon, it will quickly become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure comfort today!

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