Microwave Broccoli Chowder
A creamy, cheesy broccoli chowder with crunchy peanut topping, perfect for a quick, comforting meal that suits busy weeknights and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart microwave bowl, combine broccoli, onion, and water. Cover and microwave on High for 5 to 6 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Stir twice during cooking, breaking the broccoli into smaller pieces.
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, milk, shredded Cheddar cheese, and black pepper.
- Microwave uncovered on High for 7 to 9 minutes until the chowder is well heated, stirring twice during cooking.
- Ladle into bowls and top each serving with chopped peanuts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending the chowder before serving. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom soup. You can also add other vegetables like corn or diced potatoes for extra flavor. If you're short on time, using fresh broccoli instead of frozen can save a few minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with the chopped peanuts for added crunch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Quick And Easy Chicken And Dumplings. This chowder is also delightful as a starter for a larger dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until heated through. You can also add a splash of milk during reheating to maintain a creamy consistency, ensuring the chowder doesn't thicken too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Broccoli Chowder contains roughly 598 calories, with 19g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1188mg per serving (52% 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 chop it into small pieces and microwave it for about 3-4 minutes to soften before adding it to the mixture. Fresh broccoli will provide a slightly different texture and taste but will work well in this chowder.
How can I make this chowder spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce when mixing in the cream of chicken soup. You can also top the chowder with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make your own using gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener. Additionally, check the labels on your broth and cheese to ensure they are gluten-free.
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).