Chicken-Cheese Chowder
A comforting chicken-cheese chowder with rich flavors of tender chicken, sharp Cheddar, and aromatic celery seed. Creamy and hearty, it's perfect for a cozy meal, offering a delightful blend of savory and cheesy goodness that appeals to all ages and suits a casual family dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, cook shredded carrot and chopped onion in butter until tender, but not browned.
- Stir in flour, then gradually add milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly.
- Cook and stir until the mixture is thickened and bubbly.
- Add diced cooked chicken, white wine, celery seed, and Worcestershire sauce, then heat through.
- Do not bring to a boil.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the shredded carrot with diced potato for added heartiness. If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños. To enhance the flavor, use homemade chicken broth if available. This recipe can easily be adapted into a Cheesy Chicken Chowder by adding more cheese to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional cheese and freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Consider serving alongside a light appetizer like Oyster Rockefeller Soup to start the meal. This Chicken And Cheese dish is perfect for cozy gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove to prevent curdling. You can add a splash of milk to restore the chowder's creaminess as it thickens when cooled. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-Cheese Chowder contains roughly 695 calories, with 21g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 614mg per serving (27% 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 other types of cheese in this chowder?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the chowder.
Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chowder a day in advance. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving. However, it's best to add the cheese just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy.
What can I serve with this chowder?
This chowder is delightful on its own but is even better with sides like garlic bread, a classic Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables. You could also pair it with a light white wine for a more sophisticated 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).