Chicken and Corn Chowder

My Simple Chicken and Corn Chowder: A Weeknight Winner

As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick and easy meals that don't compromise on flavor. This Chicken and Corn Chowder is my go-to recipe when I need a comforting, delicious dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; I often use leftover roast chicken, saving me even more time and effort. And honestly, the whole family loves it!

The creamy texture, the sweetness of the corn, and the savory notes from the chicken create a perfect balance. It's hearty enough to satisfy on a chilly evening, yet light enough to not weigh you down. I love pairing it with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. The kids, however, usually opt for something more fun, like grilled sausages wrapped in pastry—a fun twist on a classic that makes dinnertime more exciting for them.

What makes this chowder so special is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Don't have squash? No problem! Just leave it out. Want to add some diced carrots or celery for extra nutrients? Go for it! The recipe is truly a blank canvas, allowing you to personalize it to your preferences and dietary needs.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is the fact that it's make-ahead friendly. This is a lifesaver on busy weekdays. I often prepare the chowder a day in advance, chill it, and then simply reheat it before serving. This eliminates the last-minute cooking rush and gives me more time to focus on other things, like helping my kids with their homework or simply having a moment to relax before the dinner chaos begins.

Beyond the convenience, the taste is what truly makes this recipe a star. The combination of flavors is truly delightful, offering a harmony of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet notes. The chicken provides a substantial protein boost, the corn offers a delightful sweetness, and the cream lends a luxuriously smooth texture. It’s the type of dish that warms your soul and leaves you feeling satisfied and happy, which is exactly what I look for in a weeknight meal.

Beyond being a quick and easy dinner solution, this chicken and corn chowder is surprisingly budget-friendly. Using leftover chicken significantly reduces the cost of the meal, and the other ingredients are readily available and inexpensive. This allows me to enjoy a delicious, comforting meal without breaking the bank – a significant advantage for any busy mom trying to manage a household budget.

So, if you're looking for a simple, delicious, and versatile recipe that the whole family will love, I highly recommend giving this Chicken and Corn Chowder a try. You'll be amazed at how easily it comes together and how much everyone enjoys it. This recipe has quickly become a staple in our household, and I'm sure it will become a favorite in yours too. Bon appétit!

Step-by-step

• Cook bacon in large pot over medium-high heat until crisp. Using slotted spoon, transfer bacon to paper towels to drain.
• Pour off all but 1/4 cup drippings from pot. Add butter to pot; melt over medium-high heat. Add onions and 1 cup bell peppers. Sauté until onions are soft, about 10 minutes.
• Add flour; stir 2 minutes.
• Mix in broth, then squash, potatoes, and thyme; bring to boil.
• Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer uncovered until squash and potatoes are tender, about 12 minutes.
• Add corn, cream, and 1 cup bell peppers. Simmer until corn is tender, about 10 minutes. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cool. Chill uncovered until cold, then cover and keep chilled. Bring to simmer before continuing.)
• Add chicken, 1 cup green onions, and 1/2 cup cilantro; simmer 5 minutes.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Ladle chowder into bowls; sprinkle with remaining 1 cup green onions and 2 tablespoons cilantro.