This Chicken Corn Chowder is comfort food at its finest, made effortless by the slow cooker. It’s a rich, creamy soup loaded with sweet corn, tender potatoes, and savory chicken, seasoned with thyme and smoky bacon. It is thick enough to stand a spoon in and flavorful enough to be a family favorite.
Using the crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours. The potatoes break down slightly to thicken the broth naturally, while the corn infuses its sweetness into every drop. It’s the perfect “set it and forget it” meal for a chilly day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet & Savory Balance
The natural sugars in the corn pair perfectly with the savory elements of onion, garlic, and bacon. It creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and interesting.
Easy Creaminess
We use a simple trick to make this chowder ultra-creamy without needing gallons of heavy cream: blending a portion of the soup (corn and potatoes) and returning it to the pot. This gives it a thick, chowder-like body while keeping it relatively lighter.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, boneless skinless
- 2 cups corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
- 1 can (14oz) cream-style corn
- 3 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half (or heavy cream)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Place chicken, potatoes, corn (both types), onion, broth, and thyme in slow cooker.
- Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours.
- Remove chicken, shred, and return to pot.
- Stir in half-and-half. Heat through for 15 mins.
- Serve topped with bacon and chives.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Corn: A mix of cream-style corn (for thickness) and whole kernel corn (for texture) works best. Frozen corn is also great.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold, peeled and cubed.
Chicken: Raw breast cooked in the soup, then shredded.
Bacon: Cooked and crumbled for topping.
Chicken Broth: The liquid base.
Half-and-Half: For the creamy finish.
Smart Substitutions
For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk—it pairs surprisingly well with the corn. You can use ham instead of bacon. If you want it vegetarian, skip the meat and use vegetable broth; it becomes a delicious Corn & Potato Chowder.
If you enjoy slow cooker soups, this Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup is another fantastic option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Peel and dice potatoes. Dice the onion. Place the raw chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Cooking Phase
Add the potatoes, corn (kernels and cream-style), onion, garlic, thyme, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
The Shred: Remove the chicken breasts, shred them with two forks, and return to the pot.
The Finish: Stir in the half-and-half (or heavy cream). Let it heat through for 15 minutes.
For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes in the pot before serving.
Serve topped with crispy bacon and fresh chives.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Don’t Add Dairy Early: Dairy can separate if cooked for 7 hours. Always add the milk/cream at the very end just to warm it up.
Texture: The cream-style corn acts as a thickener. If you only have whole kernels, pulse 1 cup of them in a blender before adding to mimic the texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using waxy potatoes (like Red ones) if you want a thick soup. Russets fall apart better, creating a natural starch thickener.
| Ingredient | Role | Substitute |
|---|---|---|
| Cream Style Corn | Thickener/Sweetness | Blended corn |
| Potatoes | Body/Starch | Cauliflower (low carb) |
| Bacon | Savory Garnish | Ham |
| Thyme | Herbal Note | Rosemary |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Top generously with bacon and green onions. Serve with oyster crackers.
Pairing Suggestions
A grilled cheese sandwich or a crusty bread roll is the perfect side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this?
Soups with dairy and potatoes can change texture in the freezer. It’s safe to eat but might be slightly grainy.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, naturally! Just check your broth and bacon labels.
Conclusion
Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is a hug in a bowl. Rich, sweet, savory, and effortless, it’s the perfect meal to come home to.
