Ingredients
Scale
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (or Thighs) – About 2-3 large breasts or 4-5 thighs. Thighs will offer slightly more flavor and moisture, but breasts work beautifully and shred easily. Ensure they are trimmed of any excess fat.
- Aromatics:
- 1 Medium Yellow Onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup) – Provides a foundational sweetness and savory depth.
- 2 Celery Stalks, finely chopped (about 1 cup) – Adds a subtle vegetal freshness and classic soup base flavor.
- 2–3 Cloves Garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon) – Essential for its pungent, savory kick. Adjust to your garlic preference.
- Corn:
- 1 bag (16 oz / 450g) Frozen Sweet Corn – No need to thaw! Frozen corn retains its sweetness and texture well during slow cooking.
- 1 can (15 oz / 425g) Cream-Style Corn – This is key for adding body, sweetness, and extra corn flavor throughout the broth. Do not drain.
- Liquid Gold: 6 cups (48 fl oz / 1.4 liters) Low-Sodium Chicken Broth or Stock – Using low-sodium allows you to control the final saltiness. Choose a good quality broth for the best flavor base. Vegetable broth can be substituted if preferred.
- Seasoning Power:
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme – Adds a lovely earthy, slightly floral note that complements chicken beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Rosemary, crushed (optional) – Offers a piney aroma; use sparingly if including.
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional) – Adds a subtle smokiness and lovely color.
- 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste) – Essential for bringing out all the flavors. Start with this amount and adjust later.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground – Provides a gentle warmth.
- Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (optional) – For a tiny hint of background heat.
- The Creamy Dream Team:
- 1 block (8 oz / 225g) Cream Cheese, softened and cubed – Ensure it’s softened for easy melting. Full-fat provides the best richness, but Neufchâtel (lower fat) can work.
- 1/2 cup (4 fl oz / 120ml) Heavy Cream (or Half-and-Half) – Adds the final touch of luxurious creaminess.
- Finishing Touches:
- 2 Tablespoons Cornstarch mixed with 3 Tablespoons Cold Water (Slurry, optional for thickening) – If you prefer a thicker, chowder-like consistency.
- Fresh Parsley or Chives, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker insert with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter/oil (optional, but helps with cleanup). Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) at the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Add Aromatics and Veggies: Scatter the chopped yellow onion, chopped celery, and minced garlic evenly over the chicken.
- Introduce the Corn: Pour the bag of frozen sweet corn and the entire can of cream-style corn (undrained) over the vegetables and chicken. Spread them out reasonably evenly.
- Pour in the Broth: Carefully pour the low-sodium chicken broth over all the ingredients in the slow cooker. Ensure the chicken is mostly submerged.
- Season Generously: Sprinkle the dried thyme, optional dried rosemary, optional smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional pinch of cayenne pepper into the broth. Give it a gentle stir to distribute the seasonings, being careful not to disturb the chicken too much.
- Slow Cook Magic: Secure the lid on the slow cooker. Set the cooking time: Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be cooked through and very tender, easily shreddable with a fork. Low and slow is generally preferred for optimal tenderness and flavor melding, but High works if you’re short on time. Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as this releases heat and increases cooking time.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts/thighs from the slow cooker using tongs and place them on a clean cutting board or in a large bowl. Let them cool slightly for easier handling. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should shred very easily if cooked properly.
- Incorporate Creaminess: While the chicken is out, add the cubed, softened cream cheese to the hot broth in the slow cooker. Whisk vigorously until the cream cheese is fully melted and integrated into the soup, creating a smooth, opaque base. Any small lumps should dissolve with continued whisking in the hot liquid.
- Return Chicken & Add Cream: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir it into the creamy broth. Now, slowly pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) while stirring gently. Continue stirring until the cream is fully incorporated. Allow the soup to heat through with the cream for about 10-15 more minutes on the LOW or WARM setting (do not bring it to a rolling boil after adding the cream, as it can curdle).
- Thicken (Optional): Check the consistency of the soup. If you prefer it thicker, like a chowder, prepare the cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 3 tablespoons of cold water until completely smooth (no lumps!). Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering soup while whisking constantly. Continue to stir and let the soup simmer gently for a few more minutes until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Remember it will thicken slightly more as it cools.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: This is crucial! Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want more salt, pepper, or even another pinch of cayenne or thyme.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the hot, creamy chicken and corn soup into bowls. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy immediately!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One Normal Portion
- Calories: 350 - 450