Hearty Chicken Cheese Chowder
A creamy, hearty chicken cheese chowder packed with tender vegetables, savory chicken, and melted cheddar, perfect for comforting family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve bouillon cubes in 2 cups of boiling water.
- Add diced potatoes, sliced carrots, sliced celery, diced onion, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Do not drain the vegetable mixture.
- Melt butter in a separate saucepan.
- Add flour to the melted butter and stir to create a roux.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add Cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir the cheese sauce into the vegetable mixture.
- Add diced, cooked chicken and heat through without boiling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're short on time, pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the flavor profile. For added depth, incorporate a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce. This chowder pairs well with crusty bread from your favorite American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder in deep bowls topped with extra cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color. Consider pairing it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast or crusty bread for dipping. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy dinners and goes wonderfully with dinner dippers to create a fun meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to prevent breaking the cheese sauce. If the chowder thickens, add a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can lead to uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Chicken Cheese Chowder contains roughly 2167 calories, with 31g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 170g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (143% of the Daily Value), calcium (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2922mg per serving (127% 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, this chowder can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to add the cheese sauce just before serving if possible, as it will maintain its creamy consistency.
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like corn, peas, or even diced bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the vegetables you choose, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is tender.
How can I make this chowder healthier?
To lighten this chowder, consider using low-fat milk and reducing the amount of butter. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding more carrots or celery. For protein, consider replacing some of the chicken with white beans for a nutritious boost.
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).