Chicken, Cheese, Vegetable Chowder
A hearty chicken and vegetable chowder loaded with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, noodles, and melted American cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken and vegetables together in the chicken broth until tender.
- Add the uncooked noodles and cook until just tender, avoiding overcooking.
- Season the chowder with seasoned salt, poultry seasoning, parsley, and bay leaf.
- Reduce heat to low and add the cubed American cheese, stirring until it melts completely.
- Serve hot, ensuring the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stewing chicken before adding it to the broth. You can substitute the American cheese with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different taste profile. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-sodium chicken broth and add more vegetables like peas or corn. This chowder is reminiscent of Amish Chicken Corn Soup, offering a comforting, hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional parsley for freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a family dinner, consider serving it alongside Quick Chicken Dressing Casserole for a comforting combination that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chowder gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it becomes too thick during reheating. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may alter the texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken, Cheese, Vegetable Chowder contains roughly 323 calories, with 23g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (142% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1253mg 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 make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chowder in advance. Cook it through step 3, then let it cool and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat and add the cheese. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Is it possible to freeze the chowder?
Freezing is not recommended due to the cheese's texture after thawing. However, you can freeze the base chowder without cheese. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat, then add fresh cheese for the best flavor and texture.
What can I serve with this chowder?
This chowder is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with sides like a simple green salad or garlic bread. For a more filling meal, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light pasta dish to balance the richness of the chowder.
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).