Creamy Chicken and Potato Chowder
Comforting and hearty, this creamy chicken and potato chowder is a perfect potato dinner recipe. It’s simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and ideal for a cozy evening meal. You’ll love how easy it is to create a delicious and filling dish that everyone will enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creamy texture.
- Dairy: Heavy cream or half-and-half provides richness.
- Vegetables: Onions and celery form the base; you can add carrots for extra color.
- Broth: Chicken broth enhances the flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 medium potatoes (about 1.5 pounds), peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold water
Spices & Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550
- Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the dried thyme and garlic powder.
3. Add Potatoes and Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Thicken the Chowder
While the potatoes cook, whisk together the flour and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the simmering chowder, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, until the chowder thickens.
5. Finish with Cream and Chicken
Stir in the heavy cream and return the cooked chicken to the pot. Heat through for another 2-3 minutes, but do not boil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your creamy chicken and potato chowder into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like. This makes a fantastic potato dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas
- Add Vegetables: Stir in a cup of frozen corn or peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrients.
- Smoked Paprika: A pinch of smoked paprika can add a lovely depth of flavor.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese at the end until melted for a cheesy chowder.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover creamy chicken and potato chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use different types of potatoes?
A: Yes, while russet and Yukon Gold are ideal, you can use other starchy potatoes. Avoid waxy varieties as they may not break down as well.
Q: How can I make this chowder dairy-free?
A: You can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative like full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free potato dinner recipe.
Q: Can I prepare this chowder ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make it a day in advance. The flavors often deepen overnight. Reheat gently.
Q: What if my chowder is too thin?
A: If it’s too thin, you can make a small slurry with more flour and cold water, then whisk it into the simmering chowder.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Absolutely! If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, add it with the cream in step 5 to simply warm it through.
Q: Is this a good recipe for meal prepping?
A: Yes, this creamy chicken and potato chowder is an excellent potato dinner recipe for meal prepping, offering a hearty and convenient option.
