Shredded Chicken and Sweet Corn Chowder Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of chowder to bring comfort on a chilly evening. This Shredded Chicken and Sweet Corn Chowder is packed with savory chicken, sweet corn, and rich, creamy broth, making it a hearty yet simple meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
I first made this dish when I had leftover shredded chicken and wanted something warm, filling, and easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, and aromatic herbs turned out to be the perfect match! Plus, the addition of potatoes gives it a satisfying, chowder-like consistency.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a cozy meal to share with family, this chowder is a must-try!
⏱ Recipe Time & Servings
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of Servings |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings |
🛒 Ingredients for My Shredded Chicken and Sweet Corn Chowder
- 2 cups shredded chicken (cooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup diced potatoes (optional, but recommended for heartiness)
⭐ Pro Tips for Success
- Make It Thicker – Mash some of the potatoes or blend part of the soup before adding the cream for a thicker consistency.
- Use Fresh or Frozen Corn – While canned corn works well, fresh or frozen corn adds a crisper texture and brighter flavor.
- Choose the Right Chicken – Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken makes this recipe super easy and flavorful.
- Enhance the Flavor – Add a dash of smoked paprika, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra depth.
- Make It Spicy – If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a little kick!
🍳 Tools Required
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping vegetables)
- Measuring cups and spoons
🔄 Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Whole milk | Heavy cream | A lighter, less rich texture |
| Turkey | Shredded chicken | A slightly gamier, leaner protein |
| Fresh corn | Canned corn | A crisper, more natural taste |
| Red bell peppers | Potatoes | Adds sweetness and crunch instead of starch |
| Coconut milk | Heavy cream | A dairy-free, slightly sweet alternative |
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips
- Shred the chicken ahead of time – Store in the fridge for up to 3 days for easy meal prep.
- Chop veggies in advance – Keep chopped onions, garlic, and potatoes ready to save time.
- Freeze for later – Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Shredded Chicken and Sweet Corn Chowder
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 chopped medium onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent.
Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes (If Using)
If you’re adding diced potatoes, stir them into the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps soften the potatoes slightly before adding the broth.
Step 3: Add the Chicken Broth
Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
If you want a thicker chowder, mash a few potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon.
Step 4: Add the Chicken, Corn, and Seasonings
Stir in 2 cups of shredded chicken and 1 can of sweet corn (drained). Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors blend together.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream
Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Let the chowder cook for 2-3 more minutes until heated through. Be careful not to let it boil, as cream can separate at high heat.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the hot Shredded Chicken and Sweet Corn Chowder into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
🍽 Serving Suggestions for Shredded Chicken and Sweet Corn Chowder
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | Perfect for dipping into the creamy chowder. |
| Side Salad | A light, fresh contrast to the richness of the soup. |
| Cornbread | Enhances the sweet corn flavors in the chowder. |
| Roasted Vegetables | A healthy, flavorful side that pairs well. |
🥡 Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
- Freeze: Let the chowder cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
🥦 Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
- High in Protein – Shredded chicken provides a great protein boost.
- Rich in Fiber – Sweet corn and potatoes help with digestion.
- Dairy-Free Option – Swap heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter version.
- Immune-Boosting – Garlic and thyme offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
🍷 Suggested Drink That Pairs With The Dish
Best Drink Pairing: Chardonnay 🍷
Why? The buttery notes of a Chardonnay complement the creamy richness of the chowder beautifully. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a glass of iced lemon tea adds a refreshing contrast!
❤️ Enjoy!
This Shredded Chicken and Sweet Corn Chowder is warm, creamy, and full of flavor—perfect for a cozy dinner or an easy meal-prep option. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or a lazy weekend lunch, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
Try it out and let me know what you think! 🍲✨
