Smoky Chipotle Chicken Chowder

Name: Smoky Chipotle Chicken Chowder
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Smoky Chipotle Chicken Chowder on chilly evenings. The combination of tender chicken and spicy chipotle in a rich, smoky broth warms me from the inside out. As I cook, the enticing aromas fill my kitchen, making it impossible to resist a taste before it's even done. This chowder is not just comforting; it’s a burst of flavor with every spoonful. Plus, it's easy to prepare, using accessible ingredients while making a dish that feels like a special treat for family and friends.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:38:27.684Z

When I first attempted making Smoky Chipotle Chicken Chowder, I was amazed at how simple it was to create a dish bursting with flavor. The smoky spices meld so beautifully with tender chicken and vegetables, creating a symphony of taste that feels both decadent and homely. I found that using fresh ingredients is key; they really elevate the chowder and make it unforgettable.

Last week, I experimented a bit by adding a splash of lime juice at the end, which brightened all the flavors. I also discovered that garnishing with fresh cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the smokiness just perfectly. These little tweaks made my chowder even more special, turning an ordinary weeknight meal into something extraordinary!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting with a rich, smoky flavor
Easy to customize for spice levels and add-ins
Perfect for serving on cozy family nights or gatherings

      

Understanding Chipotle Sauce

Chipotle sauce is a key ingredient in this chowder, bringing a deep, smoky flavor that elevates the dish. The sauce is made from smoked jalapeños, which provide heat and complexity. If you prefer a milder chowder, consider reducing the amount of chipotle sauce to one tablespoon or using a milder pepper sauce. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of adobo sauce can enhance the smokiness without overwhelming spice levels.

When choosing your chipotle sauce, look for brands with minimal added sugars and preservatives, which can alter the balance of flavors. If you find yourself out of chipotle sauce, a combination of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper can provide a similar smokiness. Remember to adjust the quantities gradually; it's easier to add more spice than to tone it down!

Enhancing the Chowder's Texture

To ensure a creamy texture in your chowder, avoid boiling the heavy cream. After you've stirred it in, cook the chowder on low heat. This allows for a gentle meld of flavors and prevents the cream from curdling. You'll know it's ready when the chowder thickens slightly and reaches a velvety consistency, about five minutes after adding the cream.

For added texture, consider incorporating diced potatoes or blending a portion of the chowder for a smoother base. If adding potatoes, pre-cook them for about 10 minutes before combining with the other ingredients. This way, they won't become too mushy, preserving the chowder's heartiness.

Serving Suggestions

This Smoky Chipotle Chicken Chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm cornbread, which can help soak up the rich broth. For an extra touch, try topping each bowl with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or a dollop of sour cream to cool down the heat while enhancing the richness.

If you're looking to stretch the dish for a larger gathering, consider serving it alongside a crisp salad, featuring avocado and lime dressing, to balance the spiciness. Leftovers are fantastic too—just store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat gently on the stove to maintain the creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious chowder:

Main Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your smoky chipotle chicken chowder:

Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and chipotle sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes.

Finish with Cream

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the chowder cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your smoky chipotle chicken chowder hot!

Now that you've completed the steps, it's time to dig in!

Pro Tips

For a spicier chowder, add more chipotle sauce or serve with sliced jalapeños. Serving with crusty bread on the side makes for a perfect pairing!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This chowder is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you want to freeze it, consider leaving out the heavy cream and adding it after reheating, as the cream can separate when frozen.

When reheating, do so slowly on the stove over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. Stir occasionally, and if the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this chowder by adding your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, spinach, or even sweet potatoes can complement the flavors beautifully. Just dice them into small pieces and add them along with the corn and tomatoes for a burst of color and nutrition.

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, adding a splash of lime juice before serving can brighten the flavors and provide a refreshing contrast to the smokiness of the chipotle.

Common Mistakes and Fixes

One common mistake when preparing chowder is cooking at too high a heat. Keep the temperature at medium or lower when simmering; otherwise, the ingredients can become overcooked and lose their texture. Watch for visual cues, such as bubbling around the edges instead of a rolling boil.

If you find the chowder too thick, simply add a little more broth or cream to adjust its consistency. Conversely, if it turns out too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer to allow it to reduce; you can also blend a small portion and return it to the pot for a thicker texture without the need for additional thickeners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, diced firm tofu, or even shrimp for different variations.

→ How can I make this chowder vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ Can I freeze the chowder?

Absolutely! Place cooled chowder in an airtight container and freeze it. It will stay good for up to 3 months.

→ What toppings can I use for this chowder?

You can top your chowder with avocado, diced green onions, shredded cheese, or even crispy tortilla strips for added texture.