Chicken-Broccoli Chowder
A hearty and creamy chicken-broccoli chowder combining tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and cheesy goodness, all simmered with potatoes and carrots. Perfect for comforting family dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish offers a rich flavor profile with a satisfying texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
- 1/2 package Betty Crocker scalloped potatoes or 1 package Betty Crocker au gratin potatoes ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups thinly sliced carrots
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onion ⓘ
- 3 cups water ⓘ
- 2 cups milk ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon instant chicken bouillon ⓘ
- 1 package frozen chopped broccoli ⓘ
- 2 cups cut-up cooked chicken ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except chicken and cheese in a 3-quart saucepan.
- Heat to boiling, stirring frequently.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer.
- Cook until potatoes are tender, about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in cheese and cooked chicken.
- Cover and cook until hot, about 5 minutes longer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a lower sodium option, use low-sodium chicken bouillon. Feel free to swap out the Swiss cheese for cheddar for a sharper flavor, or add different vegetables like corn or bell peppers for added texture. This recipe is versatile and can be customized to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken-Broccoli Chowder pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a light dish like Tennessee Pride Hash Brown Casserole for a comforting dinner. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a touch of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chowder on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the chowder thickens too much during storage, add a splash of milk or water to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-Broccoli Chowder contains roughly 1223 calories, with 26g protein, 168g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (61% of the Daily Value), iron (57% of the Daily Value), and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1252mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli! Just blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes until slightly tender before adding it to the chowder. This will ensure it cooks evenly and adds a vibrant color to your dish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this chowder gluten-free, simply use gluten-free scalloped or au gratin potatoes. Always check the labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients in your bouillon or cheese.
Can I prepare this chowder in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chowder up to the point of adding the chicken and cheese, then store it in the refrigerator for a day or two. When ready to serve, reheat and stir in the chicken and cheese for a quick and delicious meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).