As I stirred the pot, the comforting aroma of my Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy family gathering. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace after a long day. With a wonderfully creamy texture brought to life by tender chicken and sweet corn, this chowder makes dinner a breeze, and the slow cooker handles all the hard work. Perfect for busy nights, it’s adaptable to suit every family’s taste, whether you prefer a touch more heat or something a bit milder. Plus, it’s the ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out. Curious about how to make your dinner feel like a warm hug? Let’s dive into this delicious, crowd-pleasing chowder!
Why is this chowder a must-try?
Hearty Comfort: This chowder wraps you in warmth, making it the perfect choice for chilly evenings.
Family-Friendly Flavor: With familiar ingredients, even picky eaters will eagerly dive in!
Effortlessly Easy: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. No complicated steps here!
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize—add jalapeños for heat or swap in veggies for extra nutrition.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it at gatherings, and watch everyone return for seconds, or even thirds! Pair it with Mexican Street Corn Salad for an unforgettable meal.
Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder Ingredients
• Discover the delightful components that make this chowder a family favorite!
For the Chowder
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish, providing tenderness and delicious flavor.
- Chicken Broth – The flavorful base; opt for low-sodium for a healthier option.
- Whole Corn (Canned) – Adds natural sweetness and delightful texture; do not drain to keep the moisture.
- Cream Style Corn (Canned) – Ensures a rich and creamy consistency that everyone loves.
- Salsa Verde – Delivers a unique zest, elevating the overall flavor of the chowder.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilis (Canned) – Infuses a vine-ripened flavor and a hint of heat.
- Cumin – A key spice that adds authenticity to the Mexican flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall taste; adjust to your liking.
- Minced Garlic – Fresh garlic elevates the dish’s aroma and taste; use fresh for the best experience.
For the Creamy Finish
- Heavy Cream – Provides a luxurious, velvety finish for your chowder.
- Monterey Jack Cheese (Shredded) – Melts beautifully, adding depth and richness.
For Serving
- Tortilla Chips – Perfect accompaniment for a delightful crunch.
- Fresh Cilantro – Adds a burst of brightness when sprinkled on top.
- Diced Avocado – Introduces a creamy, smooth texture that complements the chowder.
- Lime Wedges – Offers a refreshing zing that enhances the overall flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a 6-quart slow cooker, place the boneless skinless chicken breasts as the base of your Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder. Pour in the chicken broth, adding in the whole corn and cream corn without draining. Stir in the salsa verde, diced tomatoes with green chilis, cumin, salt, pepper, and minced garlic, ensuring the chicken is completely submerged in the flavorful mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Chowder
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. As the hours pass, aromatic scents will fill your kitchen; you'll know it's ready when the chicken is so tender it easily shreds with a fork. Keep an eye on it for the best results!
Step 3: Shred Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker using tongs, letting any excess liquid drip off. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks, and return the shredded chicken back into the Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder, mixing everything together so that the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Cheese
Now it's time to elevate the chowder! Add in the heavy cream and shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine, and cover once again. Cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through, creating that delightful creamy texture.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder is now ready to shine! Serve it hot in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. Add a side of tortilla chips for that perfect crunch!
Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder Variations
Feel free to get creative with this chowder, tailoring it to suit your family's preferences and dietary needs!
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Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker meal, substitute shredded rotisserie chicken to save time on preparation. It's flavorful and tender, perfect for busy nights!
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Bell Peppers: Chop and add vibrant bell peppers for an extra crunch and a pop of color, enhancing both flavor and texture in your chowder.
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Jalapeños: Spice things up by tossing in sliced jalapeños. The added heat will awaken your taste buds and bring a delightful kick to your cozy dish.
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Cashew Cream: For a creamy, dairy-free version, use cashew cream instead of heavy cream. It adds a nutty flavor while keeping that luscious texture intact.
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Fresh Greens: Incorporate fresh spinach or kale for a boost of nutrition. These greens will not only enhance the color but also your chowder's health benefits.
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Corn Variations: Mix up your corn by adding fire-roasted corn for a smoky flavor or even street corn for that traditional Mexican street food twist.
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Seasoning Boost: Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or chili powder to elevate the flavor profile further and add depth to your chowder's taste.
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Toppings Galore: Don't hold back on garnishes! Top with crumbled feta or cotija cheese for a savory finish, or squeeze in extra lime juice for a refreshing zing.
Let your culinary creativity run wild, and make this chowder truly your own! Enjoy it with a side of Mexican Street Corn Salad for a delightful combination that always pleases the crowd.
How to Store and Freeze Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure the chowder has cooled down before sealing to maintain quality.
Freezer: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion when freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it’s too thick.
Note: When storing your Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder, remember to cool it completely to preserve the best texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder
Create a delightful dining experience with the perfect accompaniments to elevate your chowder!
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Crusty Bread: Provides a warm, satisfying contrast. Dip it into the creamy chowder for an unforgettable flavor combo!
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Tortilla Chips: These crunchy delights offer an exciting textural contrast, perfect for scooping and adding extra flavor with each bite.
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: This fresh side complements the chowder beautifully, with its sweet corn and zesty lime dressing brightening up the meal.
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Fresh Guacamole: The creamy and seasoned avocado adds richness, balancing the chowder’s zesty notes perfectly and bringing all the flavors together.
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Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love a kick, fresh jalapeños offer just the right amount of heat, enhancing the overall taste of the meal.
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Margaritas: A refreshing drink that pairs well with this hearty dish, offering a sweet and tangy backdrop that enhances the comfort of the chowder.
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Chocolate Flan: End the meal with a luscious dessert that beautifully contrasts the savory flavors and creamy texture of the chowder.
Indulging in these pairings will transform your chowder into a heartwarming, complete meal your loved ones will adore!
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and combine all ingredients (except for the chicken broth and shredded cheese) up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them in an airtight container to preserve freshness. Additionally, you can cook the chowder and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding the heavy cream and cheese before serving to ensure it’s just as delicious as the first time. This way, you can delight in cozy comfort with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder
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Proper Liquid Coverage: Ensure that the chicken is fully submerged in the broth to prevent dryness during cooking.
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Prep in Advance: Chop your vegetables and have all ingredients ready, but remember to keep the chicken submerged to retain moisture and flavor.
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Adjusting Thickness: If your chowder ends up too thick, simply stir in extra chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to experiment—try adding jalapeños for extra heat or fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors of your Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder.
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Storage Solutions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep!
Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting corn for the chowder?
Absolutely! When selecting corn, opt for canned whole corn without added sugars or preservatives for the best taste. Check the can for a "no salt added" option if you're watching your sodium intake. Fresh corn can also work well—choose ears with bright green husks and plump kernels for a sweet, crunchy addition.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very easy! You can store leftover Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain its flavor and texture. I often recommend using glass containers as they withstand reheating well!
Can I freeze this chowder, and if so, how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your chowder, let it cool down entirely before transferring it to airtight containers. Leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to indulge again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then heat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture.
What if my chowder turns out too thick?
No worries at all! If your Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder is too thick after cooking, gradually stir in additional chicken broth or water. Start by adding a quarter cup at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This ensures that you maintain the rich flavors while achieving the perfect texture.
Can I adjust this recipe to suit dietary restrictions?
Yes, indeed! For a gluten-free version, make sure to use certified gluten-free chicken broth. To make it dairy-free, simply substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream—that way, you can retain that luscious texture while accommodating dietary needs. Feel free to experiment and find the balance that your family enjoys!
Is this chowder safe for pets?
While the Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder contains ingredients like chicken and corn that are generally safe for pets, it's advisable to omit onions and garlic before serving any leftovers to your furry friends. Always consult with your vet if unsure about specific ingredients.
Indulgent Hearty Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken Corn Chowder
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, place the boneless skinless chicken breasts as the base. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the whole corn and cream corn without draining. Stir in salsa verde, diced tomatoes with green chilis, cumin, salt, pepper, and minced garlic, ensuring the chicken is submerged.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it shreds easily with a fork.
- Carefully remove the chicken breasts, let excess liquid drip off, shred into bite-sized pieces, and return to the chowder.
- Add heavy cream and shredded Monterey Jack cheese to the slow cooker, stir well, cover, and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts and is heated through.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with cilantro, diced avocado, and lime wedges, accompanied by tortilla chips.
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