Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the first chill of autumn settles in, my kitchen fills with the enticing aroma of something truly special. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder—a masterpiece that perfectly marries the comforting elements of a warm chowder with the vibrant kick of a chili. This one-pot wonder not only showcases sweet yellow corn and tender chicken but also boasts the effortless versatility to satisfy your family and guests alike. With quick prep and a delightful flavor profile, it’s bound to become your new go-to dish for cozy nights in. Are you ready to warm your soul with a bowl of pure comfort? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together! Why is this chowder a must-try? Creamy Comfort: This chowder combines hearty ingredients into a warm hug for your palate, perfect for chilly evenings. Bold Flavors: The unique blend of cumin, smoked paprika, and salsa verde infuses each spoonful with depth and excitement. One-Pot Wonders: With everything cooked in a single pot, cleanup is a breeze, leaving more time for family and relaxation. Versatile: Easily customize it to your taste; add extra veggies or switch up the cheese for a personalized touch. Crowd-Pleasing: It’s the ultimate comfort food! Pair it with homemade beer bread or tortilla chips for an unforgettable meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder Ingredients • Get ready for a comforting bowl! For the Chowder Base Thick-Cut Bacon – Adds a crispy, salty flavor; substitute with turkey bacon for a healthier option. Yellow Onion – Provides aromatic sweetness; feel free to swap it with any onion variety. Garlic – Enhances the savory profile; fresh garlic is optimal, but powdered works too. Corn Kernels – Contributes natural sweetness and texture; you can use frozen corn instead for convenience. Russet Potato – Adds heartiness; Yukon gold offers a sweeter alternative. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts/Thighs – Main protein source; for ease, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Ground Cumin – Offers warm, earthy flavors; coriander is a delightful substitute if you want a different twist. Smoked Paprika – Adds a smoky depth; regular paprika can be used if unavailable. Chili Powder – Provides a layer of spice; adjust according to your heat preference. Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; tailor to your personal taste. For the Broth and Creaminess Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – Forms the hearty soup base; vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian version. Poblano Peppers – Provides mild heat; bell peppers can replace them if you prefer less spice. Jalapeño – Adds extra heat; omit or swap with a milder pepper if preferred. Milk – Cultivates creaminess; any milk variety, including non-dairy options, works well. Cream Cheese – Adds rich texture; consider Greek yogurt as a lighter substitute. Salsa Verde – Infuses brightness and spice; a green enchilada sauce can serve as a backup. For Toppings Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Contributes cheesy goodness; try Monterey Jack for a different flavor. Fresh Cilantro – Adds a fresh note; if you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is an excellent alternative. Avocado – Enhances richness and provides a creamy texture for serving. Yogurt – A dollop of yogurt adds creaminess and is a great substitute for sour cream. Now that you have everything at your fingertips, let’s jump into creating your delicious White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder. Step 1: Crisp Bacon In a large pot, cook thick-cut bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and let it drain on a paper towel, reserving the rendered fat in the pot for extra flavor in your chowder. Step 2: Sauté Aromatics With the remaining bacon fat, add diced yellow onion to the pot and sauté over medium heat until it becomes fragrant and translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook until the spices bloom and the mixture becomes aromatic, about 5-10 minutes. Step 3: Combine Ingredients Add corn kernels, peeled and diced russet potato, and boneless skinless chicken to the pot. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth, and season again with salt and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, partially covered, for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. Step 4: Shred Chicken Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot using tongs, and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to cool for a minute, then shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot to mingle with the other ingredients. Step 5: Blend Chowder Using an immersion blender, puree about 3/4 of the chowder directly in the pot until it’s smooth but still retains some texture. For a more traditional method, transfer the mixture in batches to a countertop blender. Return the blended soup to the pot along with the shredded chicken for added heartiness. Step 6: Add Creaminess Incorporate the remaining ingredients into the chowder: diced poblano peppers, jalapeño, milk, cream cheese, and salsa verde. Heat the chowder over medium-low, stirring gently, for an additional 10 minutes until everything is rich and creamy, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 7: Serve Ladle the warm White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder into bowls and garnish generously with crispy bacon bits, a dollop of yogurt, sliced avocado, and fresh cilantro. The vibrant colors and inviting aroma will make it irresistible. Enjoy this comforting dish on chilly evenings! What to Serve with Creamy White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder? There’s something magical about cozy bowls of chowder that brings warmth to any gathering. Let’s elevate your meal with these delightful pairings! Homemade Beer Bread: Freshly baked with a soft, fluffy interior, it’s perfect for soaking up that creamy goodness. Crusty Artisan Bread: This rustic option offers a nice contrast, its crunchy crust and chewy texture complementing the smooth chowder beautifully. Tortilla Chips: Lightly salted and crunchy, they add a fun element! Perfect for scooping and bringing a delightful crunch to each bite. Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed in a lemon vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the chowder’s richness. With a burst of citrus, it lifts the palette wonderfully. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables pairs well with the smoky flavors in the chowder. It’s a hearty addition that enhances the meal. Sour Cream: A dollop on top adds a cooling touch that balances the spices. This classic topping is a must for each bowl of chowder. Spicy Pickled Jalapeños: For those who crave heat, they inject an exciting kick that elevates the whole experience. Just a few slices can make your chowder sing! Crispy Bacon Bits: Extra toppings of bacon intensify that savory, salty flavor, making each bowl even more irresistible. It’s comfort food at its finest, and who can resist bacon? Apple Cider: The sweet and tangy notes of this fall favorite complement the chowder while enhancing the overall comfort of a cozy evening. With these perfect pairings, your chowder will become the star of the dinner table! How to Store and Freeze White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; make sure the chowder is cooled before sealing to preserve freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chowder in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess if needed. Serving Tips: When ready to serve, give it a good stir and top with your favorite garnishes to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder! White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder Variations Feel free to add your personal twist to this comforting dish and make it uniquely yours! Add Beans: Incorporate kidney or black beans for a protein boost and added texture. This not only enhances the dish but also makes it heartier. Vegetable Boost: Toss in diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. These veggies blend beautifully with the existing flavors, adding a fresh touch. Spicy Kick: If you crave heat, increase the jalapeños or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce. A little extra spice will awaken your taste buds and create a delightful contrast. Cheesy Variations: Experiment with a different cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy twist or gouda for a smoky flavor. Each cheese brings its unique character, enhancing the allure of the chowder. Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk and eliminate cream cheese for a dairy-free version. This swap adds a hint of sweetness and works wonders in maintaining the rich texture. Herb Infusion: Embrace fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fragrant, vibrant finish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs elevates the overall taste and aroma, making it unforgettable. Crispy Toppings: Top with crushed tortilla chips or pyrotechnics like fried onions for a satisfying crunch. This contrast in texture rounds out the dish, making each bite exciting. Our chowder is comforting enough on its own, but with these variations, you can personalize each bowl. You might also find it delightful paired with Thai Peanut Chicken or some Oven Baked Chicken for a complete meal experience! Expert Tips for White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder Chicken Precaution: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and tenderness. Consistency Control: For a thicker chowder, reduce the amount of broth or simmer longer until the desired texture is achieved. Make Ahead Magic: Prepare the chowder in advance, but remember to add extra broth or milk when reheating to maintain creaminess. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute veggies or spices based on your family’s preferences, keeping the essence of White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder intact. Topping Options: Experiment with your favorite toppings like crushed tortilla chips or different cheeses for an exciting twist. Storage Success: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this chowder also freezes well for tasty future meals. Make Ahead Options Preparing your Creamy White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder in advance is a fantastic way to save valuable time during busy weeknights! You can chop your vegetables and cook the bacon up to 24 hours ahead; simply store them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the entire chowder base up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess, and finish with your favorite toppings. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy delicious, comforting chowder with minimal effort on those hectic evenings! White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder Recipe FAQs What type of corn should I use in the chowder? I recommend using fresh corn kernels for the best sweetness and texture; however, frozen corn is a fantastic substitute that saves you prep time. Just make sure to thaw it beforehand to ensure even cooking. How should I store my leftover chowder? Store leftover White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to lock in flavors and maintain freshness. Can I freeze White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder? Absolutely! For freezing, portion the chowder into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will remain good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the chowder overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring in a bit of broth or milk to restore its creamy texture. What should I do if my chowder is too thick? If you find your chowder thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply add a little chicken broth or milk, stirring continuously, until you reach the desired consistency. If you’ve added too much broth, give it a good simmer uncovered to reduce. Is this chowder suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Yes! This chowder is naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted for various diets. Use low-sodium vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, and substitute dairy ingredients like cream cheese with Greek yogurt or non-dairy products if needed. Always check with your guests for any specific allergies before serving! Can I add extra vegetables or beans to the chowder? Very! I often add diced zucchini or black beans for extra nutrition and texture. Just toss them in during the cooking process so they can warm through and absorb the wonderful flavors of the chowder. The more, the merrier when it comes to creating a meal that’ll please everyone! Creamy White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder for Cozy Nights This Creamy White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder combines comforting elements of a warm chowder with vibrant chili flavors, perfect for chilly nights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 6 bowlsCourse: SoupCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chowder Base4 slices Thick-Cut Bacon Substitute with turkey bacon for a healthier option.1 medium Yellow Onion Feel free to swap with any onion variety.3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is optimal, but powdered works too.2 cups Corn Kernels Frozen corn can be used for convenience.1 large Russet Potato Yukon gold offers a sweeter alternative.2 cups Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts/Thighs Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Coriander is a delightful substitute if desired.1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used if unavailable.1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust according to your heat preference.to taste Kosher Saltto taste Black PepperFor the Broth and Creaminess4 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian version.2 medium Poblano Peppers Bell peppers can replace them if preferred.1 medium Jalapeño Omit or swap with a milder pepper if preferred.1 cup Milk Any milk variety, including non-dairy options, works well.8 oz Cream Cheese Consider Greek yogurt as a lighter substitute.1 cup Salsa Verde A green enchilada sauce can serve as a backup.For Toppings1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Try Monterey Jack for a different flavor.1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Parsley is an excellent alternative.1 medium Avocado Enhances richness.1/2 cup Yogurt Great substitute for sour cream. Equipment large pot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for White Chicken Chili Corn ChowderIn a large pot, cook thick-cut bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and let it drain on a paper towel, reserving the rendered fat in the pot for extra flavor in your chowder.With the remaining bacon fat, add diced yellow onion to the pot and sauté over medium heat until it becomes fragrant and translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and season with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook until the spices bloom and the mixture becomes aromatic, about 5-10 minutes.Add corn kernels, peeled and diced russet potato, and boneless skinless chicken to the pot. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth, and season again with salt and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, partially covered, for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot using tongs, and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to cool for a minute, then shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot to mingle with the other ingredients.Using an immersion blender, puree about 3/4 of the chowder directly in the pot until it's smooth but still retains some texture. For a more traditional method, transfer the mixture in batches to a countertop blender. Return the blended soup to the pot along with the shredded chicken for added heartiness.Incorporate the remaining ingredients into the chowder: diced poblano peppers, jalapeño, milk, cream cheese, and salsa verde. Heat the chowder over medium-low, stirring gently, for an additional 10 minutes until everything is rich and creamy.Ladle the warm White Chicken Chili Corn Chowder into bowls and garnish generously with crispy bacon bits, a dollop of yogurt, sliced avocado, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy this comforting dish on chilly evenings! Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg NotesFor best results, ensure the chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Store leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
