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#### Instructions:
**Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic**
1. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
**Step 2: Cook the Chicken**
1. Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and is lightly browned.
2. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika (if using). Stir to evenly coat the chicken with the seasonings.
**Step 3: Add the Broth and Potatoes**
1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Add the diced potatoes (if using) and stir everything together. Let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and fully cooked.
**Step 4: Stir in the Corn and Cream**
1. Once the potatoes are tender, add the corn and heavy cream to the pot. Stir well to combine.
2. Let the soup simmer for another 5-7 minutes until it becomes thick and creamy. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add a little more chicken broth or water at this point.
**Step 5: Adjust Seasonings and Serve**
1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme if necessary.
2. Once the chowder is creamy and flavorful, remove the pot from the heat.
3. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives. If you’re using bacon, sprinkle some crumbled bacon on top for added flavor.
**Step 6: Enjoy**
1. Serve the creamy chicken corn chowder with a side of crusty bread, crackers, or a light salad to complete the meal. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors!
### Tips for Perfect Chicken Corn Chowder
– **Add More Veggies**: You can include additional vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to boost the flavor and nutrition. Simply dice them and sauté them with the onion and garlic.
– **Make it Spicy**: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the soup along with the garlic. It adds a nice kick to the creamy base.
– **Use Rotisserie Chicken**: For a quicker version, you can substitute the diced chicken breasts with shredded rotisserie chicken. Simply stir it into the soup when you add the broth for a faster, flavorful shortcut.
– **Thicken or Thin the Soup**: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes once they’re tender or use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup. If you like it thinner, just add more broth or cream to achieve your desired consistency.
– **Make Ahead**: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and also freezes well. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a little extra broth or cream if it’s too thick.
### Creative Variations of Chicken Corn Chowder
While the base recipe is absolutely delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize your chicken corn chowder to suit your tastes. Here are a few creative twists:
– **Bacon Lovers’ Chowder**: Add crispy bacon into the soup for extra flavor, or sprinkle it on top as a garnish. The smoky taste of bacon complements the creaminess of the chowder perfectly.
– **Cheesy Chicken Corn Chowder**: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy, creamy version. The cheese adds an extra layer of richness and flavor.
– **Spicy Southwest Chowder**: Add a can of diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy Southwest variation. Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a tangy twist.
### Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, combining the sweetness of corn, the richness of cream, and the heartiness of chicken in one bowl. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cold days, or when you’re craving a comforting, satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you’ll have a creamy, flavorful chowder that’s perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of homemade chicken corn chowder. It’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
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