There’s something deeply comforting about a hearty bowl of soup, and Chicken Chowder Soup stands at the pinnacle of this culinary genre. If you’ve never had the pleasure of tasting a bowl of creamy, savory, and indulgent chicken chowder, you’re in for a treat. This soup is the perfect balance of rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, creating an irresistible combination of creamy broth, tender chicken, and vegetables. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or just a day when you crave something warm and filling, Chicken Chowder Soup will satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.
Packed with layers of flavor and texture, it’s the type of dish that has everyone reaching for seconds. And, the best part? It’s super versatile, so you can adjust the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you like your chowder extra creamy, spicy, or veggie-heavy, this recipe will easily adapt to whatever you’re in the mood for.
So, let’s dive in and break down exactly what you’ll need to make this delicious comfort food from scratch. I promise it’s worth the effort!
Chicken Chowder Soup Recipe
This Chicken Chowder Soup recipe is an easy and satisfying dish that you can whip up with a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. It’s the perfect go-to meal when you’re craving something hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients Needed
To make a mouth-watering chicken chowder, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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Chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless):
- About 1 pound. You can use chicken breast for a leaner option or thighs for more flavor.
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Potatoes
- 2 large russet potatoes (peeled and diced). The starch in the potatoes thickens the chowder and adds a comforting texture.
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Carrots
- 2 medium carrots (diced). Carrots add a natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
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Celery
- 2 celery stalks (diced). The celery provides a nice crunch and a hint of fresh, herbal flavor.
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Yellow Onion
- 1 small onion (diced). Onions are the base of most soups, providing an aromatic, savory foundation.
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Corn Kernels
- 1 cup (fresh, frozen, or canned). Corn adds a subtle sweetness and a burst of color to the chowder.
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Chicken Broth
- 4 cups (low-sodium). The broth is the soup’s base, and it infuses all the ingredients with flavor.
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Milk
- 1 cup (whole or 2%). For a creamy base, milk works wonders. For a lighter chowder, you can substitute with half-and-half.
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Heavy Cream
- 1 cup. This ingredient takes the creaminess of the chowder to the next level. It’s the key to that rich, velvety texture.
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Butter
- 2 tablespoons. For sautéing the vegetables and adding a touch of richness.
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Garlic
- 3 cloves (minced). Garlic brings an essential depth of flavor.
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Seasonings
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Salt and pepper to taste. For seasoning, you’ll also need:
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon of paprika (for a smoky undertone)
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- Chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish): For freshness and color.
Cooking Instructions
Making this Chicken Chowder Soup is straightforward and fun! Here’s how you can bring it all together:
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Prepare The Chicken
- If you’re using chicken breasts, cook them first. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then cook them in a skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of butter. Cook until golden brown on both sides (about 6-8 minutes per side). Once done, remove from the pan and let them rest. Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent.
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Add The Potatoes And Broth
- Add the diced potatoes to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Stir In The Chicken And Corn
- Once the potatoes are tender, add the shredded chicken and corn kernels to the pot. Stir everything together.
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Make It Creamy
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk and heavy cream. Let the chowder simmer for another 5-10 minutes to combine the flavors.
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Season To Taste
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings, adding salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and paprika. Stir well.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley (if using), and serve immediately with a side of warm bread.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in Chicken Chowder Soup contributes not only to the overall flavor but also to the texture and heartiness of the dish.
- Chicken: Provides lean protein and a mild flavor that pairs well with the creamy broth.
- Potatoes: They act as the thickening agent, making the soup extra creamy and substantial.
- Carrots and Celery: These vegetables bring sweetness and crunch, which contrasts with the smooth broth and tender chicken.
- Corn: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and texture, enhancing the depth of the soup.
- Heavy Cream and Milk: The base of the chowder’s rich, velvety texture. You can also substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Expert Tips
- Chicken Tips: To save time, use rotisserie chicken for an added flavor boost, or cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
- Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are ideal because they break down easily and create a creamy consistency. If you want a chunkier chowder, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes instead.
- Adding Spice: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the soup. For a smokier taste, smoked paprika works wonders.
- Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, puree a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before adding the cream. This will thicken it up and make it even richer.
- Storage: Chicken chowder keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra beans (like cannellini or chickpeas) to replace the protein. For an even more hearty chowder, toss in some extra veggies like parsnips, zucchini, or spinach.
- Spicy Chicken Chowder: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk and a plant-based butter substitute to make it dairy-free. You could also try adding cashew cream for an extra indulgent feel.
Final Words
Chicken Chowder Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a versatile, customizable dish that can warm your heart and satisfy your cravings no matter the occasion. With the ability to adjust the flavors, textures, and ingredients to your liking, it’s a true kitchen staple that can become your signature dish. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply enjoying a bowl by yourself, this soup is bound to impress.