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Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Summer Corn and Chicken Chowder

slow cooker corn and chicken chowder - featured image

A creamy, comforting chowder featuring fresh summer corn and tender chicken, made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Perfect for warm evenings when you want a satisfying meal without heating up the kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 4 ears fresh summer corn, kernels removed (about 3 cups frozen corn as substitute)
  • 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1/2-inch cubes)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half or coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ingredients (10 minutes): Chop the onion, mince garlic, peel and dice potatoes into roughly 1/2-inch cubes. Cut kernels off the corn cobs by holding the cob upright and slicing downward with a sharp knife.
  2. Layer the Slow Cooker (5 minutes): Place diced potatoes, corn kernels, chopped onion, and minced garlic into the slow cooker pot. Add shredded chicken on top.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasoning (5 minutes): Pour in chicken broth, then add butter and fresh thyme. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. Cook on Low (3 to 4 hours): Cover and set slow cooker to low. Cook until potatoes are tender and flavors meld. Alternatively, cook on high for 1.5 to 2 hours, watching closely.
  5. Prepare Cream Mixture (while cooking): Soften cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature or microwaving in 20-second bursts.
  6. Finish the Chowder (10 minutes): Once veggies are tender, stir in softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Mix well until creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Simmer briefly (optional): Turn slow cooker to high and warm chowder for another 10 minutes without boiling to keep creaminess intact.
  8. If chowder is too thick, stir in a splash of extra broth or water. If too thin, mash a few potato cubes against the side of the slow cooker and stir to thicken.

Notes

Use fresh corn when possible for best flavor. Frozen corn can be used but should be thawed and drained well. Do not skip cream cheese for the ultra-smooth texture. Cook slow and low to avoid mushy potatoes or dry chicken. Adjust seasoning after adding cream. If chowder is too thick, add broth or water; if too thin, mash some potatoes to thicken naturally.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, corn chowder, chicken chowder, creamy soup, summer recipe, comfort food, easy dinner