Easy Corn Chowder Recipe: Comfort in a Bowl

There’s something magical about a big, warm bowl of corn chowder. It's like a hug in a bowl—a creamy, savory delight that’s both hearty and light enough to enjoy all year round. Whether you're whipping it up for a cozy weeknight dinner or sharing it with friends at a summer gathering, this corn chowder recipe is sure to hit the spot. And a quick idea for dinner.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a rundown of the ingredients you’ll need to make this easy corn chowder:

• 2 tablespoons butter: Because everything’s better with butter.

• 1/4 cup chopped onion: Adds that essential flavor base.

• 1/4 cup chopped celery: For a bit of crunch and depth.

• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped: Just the right amount of heat. (optional)

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: To thicken things up.

• 3 cups 2% low-fat milk: Creamy, but still light. Substitute coconut milk or evaporated milk if desired

• 2 cups chopped, cooked skinless chicken: Protein-packed and delicious. I use rotisserie. (Or substitute crab, shrimp, or sausage for the chicken)

• 1 1/2 cups fresh corn kernels (3 ears) or 1 1/2 cups frozen corn kernels: Fresh or frozen, corn is the star here.

• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: A hint of herby goodness.

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: For a little kick. (optional but delicious)

• 1/8 teaspoon salt: Season to taste.

• 1 (14 3/4 ounce) can cream-style corn: Extra creamy corn goodness.

How Do You Make Corn Chowder?

Making corn chowder is super easy and totally worth the effort. Here’s how to whip up a pot of this comforting chowder:

1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s melted and bubbly, add in the chopped onion, celery, and jalapeno pepper. Sauté until the veggies are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in the flour. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This will help thicken your chowder.

3. Gradually whisk in the milk. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the chicken, corn kernels, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and cream-style corn. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.

5. Simmer the chowder for about 10 minutes, or until it’s heated through and thickened to your liking.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne. If you prefer it creamier, you can stir in a bit more milk.

And that’s it! You’ve got yourself a big, beautiful pot of corn chowder. Serve it up with some crusty bread, and you’re in for a treat.

Corn Chowder and…. anything you like!

Now, let’s talk variations. Although I make this recipe as Corn Chowder chicken, One of the best things about corn chowder is how versatile it is. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste and make corn chowder and anything you have on hand.

For example, if you’re a fan of seafood, you might want to try making a corn chowder with shrimp or corn chowder with crab. Or try these delicious variations: Corn Chowder potatoes, and sausage Corn Chowder.

Just swap out the chicken for equal amounts of your favorite ingredient.

One of my favorites is Corn Chowder with crab. The sweetness of the crab meat pairs perfectly with the creamy corn base.

Want a bit of both land and sea? No problem—try a corn chowder with shrimp and chicken combo! The possibilities are endless, and each one is delicious.

FAQ: How to Thicken Corn Chowder?

Wondering how to get that perfect thick, creamy consistency in your corn chowder? Here are a few tips:

• Use flour: As mentioned in the recipe, adding flour helps thicken the chowder. Just make sure to cook it for a minute before adding the milk to avoid any raw flour taste.

• Mash some of the corn: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the corn kernels before adding them to the pot. This will release their natural starches and help thicken the chowder.

• Simmer longer: The longer you simmer the chowder, the thicker it will get. Just be sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

• Add more cream-style corn: If you like your chowder extra creamy, you can add an additional can of cream-style corn.

How to Substitute Evaporated Milk or Coconut Milk for the Milk

If you’re looking to switch things up or have dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute evaporated milk or coconut milk for the regular milk in this recipe.

• Evaporated milk: This is a great option if you want a richer, creamier chowder without adding extra fat. Just use the same amount of evaporated milk as you would regular milk.

• Coconut milk: For a dairy-free option, coconut milk is a fantastic substitute. It adds a slight sweetness and a tropical twist to the chowder. Use the same amount as you would regular milk, but keep in mind that it will change the flavor slightly.

Corn chowder and a cozy evening go hand in hand, making it the perfect comfort food for any time of year. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply enjoy a warm bowl on a chilly night, corn chowder and a side of crusty bread are a match made in heaven. The creamy texture and sweet corn flavor make corn chowder and your favorite toppings, like crispy bacon or fresh herbs, an irresistible combination.