Name: Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe for a Cozy Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 495 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breasts or Thighs (Thighs add extra flavor and moisture.); 2 cups Potatoes (Any variety.); 1 cup Carrots (Can substitute with bell peppers or diced tomatoes.); 1 cup Celery (Essential for savory flavor.); 1 medium Onion (Yellow onion preferred.); 3 cloves Garlic (Mince for best flavor.); 4 cups Chicken Broth (Low-sodium recommended.); 2 cups Corn Kernels (Fresh, frozen, or canned (drained).); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Optional for smokiness.); 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (Can use fresh thyme.); to taste Salt and Black Pepper (Adjust to preference.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can substitute with half-and-half or milk.)

Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe for a Cozy Dinner

There's something undeniably comforting about coming home to the rich aroma of a hearty meal simmering away in the slow cooker. Just imagine it: the cozy scent of garlic mingling with buttery corn and tender chicken, wrapping you in warmth as you kick off your shoes. This Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe promises to turn your ordinary weekday dinner into a delightful experience with minimal effort. With just 15 minutes of prep, you can set it and forget it, letting the flavors meld beautifully over 6 to 8 hours. Perfect for busy nights or when you just want to indulge in homemade goodness without the fuss, this chowder is a family-friendly treat that guarantees smiles all around the dinner table. Let's dig into how this simple blend of pantry staples and fresh ingredients transforms into a soul-satisfying meal!

Why Will You Love This Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe?

Comforting warmth: This chowder is like a hug in a bowl, delivering rich flavors and creaminess that lingers on chilly evenings.

Minimal prep time: With just 15 minutes of prep, it fits seamlessly into your busy schedule, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness effortlessly.

Family-friendly: This recipe is a crowd-pleaser suitable for everyone, making it ideal for both kids and adults alike.

Versatile ingredients: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or try a dairy-free version; explore variations to make it your own.

Culinary tradition: Inspired by classic chowder recipes, it captures the essence of hearty, comforting cooking that warms the heart and home.

For more ideas, check out our guide on creating the ultimate cozy dinner that your family will love!

Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Ingredients

• Discover the simple components of this delightful chowder that comes together effortlessly!

For the Chowder

Chicken Breasts or Thighs - The main protein; thighs add extra flavor and moisture for a richer taste.
Potatoes - Provide heartiness and texture; feel free to use any variety you have on hand.
Carrots - Add natural sweetness; for a twist, substitute with bell peppers or diced tomatoes.
Celery - Offers a savory flavor base with a nice crunch; don't skip this essential ingredient!
Onion - Enhances flavor depth; yellow onion is the preferred choice for a sweeter profile.
Garlic - Infuses aromatic goodness; fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder works well in a pinch.
Chicken Broth - The hearty liquid base of the chowder; low-sodium varieties help control saltiness.
Corn Kernels - Bring sweetness and delightful texture; you can use fresh, frozen, or canned (drained) corn.
Smoked Paprika - Adds a touch of smokiness; optional but contributes depth, though regular paprika is a fine substitute.
Dried Thyme - A wonderful herb for seasoning; fresh thyme can elevate the flavor even further.
Salt and Black Pepper - Essential for tailoring the taste; adjust to personal preferences for maximum enjoyment.
Heavy Cream - Creates that luscious, creamy consistency; substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option.

Enjoy creating a cozy, soul-warming meal with this Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder recipe!

How to Make Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Prep Vegetables: Begin by dicing the potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic to ensure that every bite is bursting with flavor-this step takes only about 15 minutes!
Layer Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the crockpot. Follow with your prepped vegetables and seasonings. Pour in the chicken broth to bring everything together smoothly.
Add Corn: Gently stir in the corn kernels-whether fresh, frozen, or canned-allowing their sweetness to mix with the other ingredients.
Slow Cook: Cover your crockpot and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. You know it's ready when the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
Shred Chicken: After cooking, remove the chicken pieces, shred them, and return the shredded chicken back to the chowder. It adds heartiness and ensures every spoonful is satisfying.
Prepare Creamy Base: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour with the heavy cream. Gradually add this mixture to the chowder, then let it cook on HIGH for 15-20 minutes to thicken deliciously.
Serve: Once thickened to your liking, taste the chowder and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired to enhance the presentation!

Optional: Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for the ultimate cozy dinner experience.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder?

Warm up your table with delightful pairings that complement the soul-soothing flavors of this chowder.

Crusty Bread: This is a classic pairing; the bread's texture is perfect for soaking up the chowder and offers a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad provides a light, refreshing contrast to the rich chowder, balancing flavors and textures beautifully.
Cheddar Biscuits: Fluffy and cheesy, these biscuits add an extra layer of comfort alongside the chowder, perfect for dipping and sopping.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, they contribute a garlicky punch that harmonizes delightfully with the chowder's flavors.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and crisp texture offer a healthy, vibrant contrast, grounding the meal in wholesome goodness.
Apple Crisp: End your cozy dinner with a warm dessert; the sweet and tart apple flavors provide a wonderful conclusion to a hearty meal.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink that adds a zesty kick and cleanses the palate, enhancing the chowder's rich flavors without overwhelming them.

Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own with a few simple twists that can elevate your chowder experience!

Veggie Swap: Add colorful bell peppers or mushrooms for a texture and flavor boost, enhancing both nutrition and appeal.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a rich, dairy-free chowder that delights the taste buds.
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil to create aromatic nuances and depth in your chowder's flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to heat things up, perfect for spice lovers looking for a little adventure.
Protein Boost: Toss in some cooked bacon or sausage for a smoky flavor, providing an exciting twist that adds to the heartiness of your meal.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese before serving to create a decadent, creamy chowder that gratifies the cheese lover in all of us.
Grains Galore: Mix in cooked quinoa or rice for an added wholesome element, turning your chowder into a filling meal that satisfies all appetites.
Citrus Zing: Squeeze in fresh lime or lemon juice right before serving for a bright finish that cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing zing.

Let your creativity shine and tailor this chowder to fit your taste or dietary preferences. Enjoy every cozy spoonful!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and prep all your vegetables-potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion-up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent browning. Additionally, you can season the chicken and layer it with the prepared veggies, then refrigerate for up to 3 days before cooking. When you're ready to enjoy your chowder, simply pour in the chicken broth and corn, and slow cook as directed! This way, you'll have a comforting meal ready with minimal effort, perfect for those busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Uniform Sizes: Ensure uniform vegetable sizes for even cooking, preventing some from becoming mushy while others remain crunchy.
Flavor Boost: Make it a day ahead! The chowder's flavors deepen and improve after sitting overnight in the fridge.
Cooking Time: Stir halfway through cooking for a more even distribution of flavors, though it's not necessary if you're short on time.
Large Batch: Use a larger crockpot if doubling the recipe; adjust cooking times slightly to ensure it cooks through.
Optimal Protein: Chicken thighs yield a more flavorful chowder than breasts, but both can work in this easy crockpot chicken corn chowder recipe.

Storage Tips for Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder

Fridge: Store leftover chowder in an airtight container for up to 4 days; flavors meld beautifully as it sits.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chowder in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess.

Notes: This easy crockpot chicken corn chowder recipe maintains its deliciousness even after being stored, making it perfect for meal prep!

Easy Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe FAQs

What is the best type of chicken to use for this chowder?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are particularly recommended for their rich flavor and moisture, resulting in a more satisfying chowder. However, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used if preferred; they will make the dish a bit leaner but still delicious.

How should I store leftover chowder?
For the fridge, store leftover chowder in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Flavors blend and intensify over time, making the leftovers even more delightful. You can warm individual portions in a microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much.

Can I freeze the chowder? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze the chowder! To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding broth or cream as needed to restore creaminess.

What should I do if the chowder turns out too thick?
Very! If your chowder ends up thicker than you'd like, don't fret. Simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or even some additional cream to achieve your preferred consistency. If you find it too salty, adding some diced potatoes while reheating can also help absorb some of the excess saltiness.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you're cooking for family members with allergies, make sure to check ingredient labels, especially for chicken broth and cream, which can contain common allergens. For a dairy-free option, swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream, creating a delicious alternative that still retains the chowder's creamy essence.

What ingredient substitutions can I make?
You can easily customize this easy crockpot chicken corn chowder recipe. Feel free to swap out potatoes for sweet potatoes for added sweetness or use any seasonal vegetables you fancy, like bell peppers or zucchini. If you're aiming for a different flavor profile, fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can bring exciting new notes to the dish!