Chipotle Chicken Corn Chowder

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food: my Chipotle Chicken Corn Chowder! This ultra-creamy, smoky, and hearty chowder is bursting with sweet corn, tender shredded chicken, and just the right amount of chipotle heat.

It’s deeply satisfying, thanks to velvety potatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and a silky broth that’s layered with spices and a gentle kick of chipotle in adobo. Best of all, this whole pot comes together in under an hour—making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

This chowder is an absolute crowd-pleaser, and it’s always the first thing to disappear at potlucks or family gatherings. Inspired by my favorite southwestern café, it combines all my favorite bold, Tex-Mex flavors in one steamy bowl.

Trust me: one spoonful, and you’ll be hooked!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Easy, one-pot dinner that’s ready in under an hour
• Loads of creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor
• Perfect way to use leftover or rotisserie chicken
• Great for meal prep—leftovers taste even better!

Key Ingredients for Chipotle Chicken Corn Chowder

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chipotle Peppers in Adobo

These little flavor powerhouses bring unmistakable smoky depth and just the right amount of heat to the chowder. Start with one pepper (plus a spoonful of sauce) for mild spice, or add more if you love it hot. You can substitute 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne if chipotles aren’t available, though the signature flavor won’t be quite as bold.

Sweet Corn

Corn adds pops of juicy sweetness and classic chowder texture. Fresh, frozen, or canned corn all work beautifully—just drain canned corn first. In summer, grilled corn kernels add extra flavor; in winter, feel free to use frozen straight from the bag.

Cooked Chicken

Tender shredded chicken makes this soup super hearty and packs in the protein. Use rotisserie chicken to save time, or leftover grilled or baked chicken for a bit of charred flavor. For a vegetarian variation, swap in white beans or chickpeas.

Yukon Gold Potatoes

Potatoes create creamy body and chunkiness that makes this chowder rich and filling. Yukon Golds hold their shape nicely without getting mushy, but russets will work in a pinch. Peel if you prefer a smoother texture, or leave skins on for extra fiber.

Cream and Chicken Broth

A combination of chicken broth and half-and-half (or heavy cream) ensures a luxurious, silky chowder base. For a lighter version, use whole milk or evaporated milk—just be aware it won’t be quite as luscious.

Instructions for Chipotle Chicken Corn Chowder

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and red bell pepper. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are softened and fragrant—about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more, just until fragrant.

Add Potatoes, Spices, and Chipotle

Add diced potatoes, cumin, oregano, minced chipotle pepper, and adobo sauce to the pot. Stir to coat the veggies with all those earthy, smoky spices. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the flavors.

Simmer the Broth and Potatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, uncovered, until the potatoes are tender—about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally and check with a fork; the potatoes should yield easily.

Add Chicken and Corn

Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the shredded chicken and corn. Simmer another 5 minutes, just to warm everything through and let the flavors mingle.

Stir in Cream and Finish

Reduce heat to low. Add the half-and-half (or cream) and chopped cilantro. Gently stir, and let it heat for 2 to 3 minutes—don’t let it come to a boil after adding the cream, or it might separate. Taste and season generously with salt and black pepper.

Garnish and Serve

Ladle chowder into bowls and top with more cilantro, green onions, avocado, crispy tortilla strips, and a squeeze of lime if you like. Serve piping hot!

Recipe Variations

Amp Up the Heat

Love it spicy? Add an extra chipotle pepper or a dash of hot sauce. You can also stir in diced jalapeños along with the onions and peppers for a real kick.

Lighten It Up

Swap the cream for whole milk or even unsweetened coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The chowder will still be luscious and creamy, but much lighter.

Vegetarian Version

Replace the chicken with two cans of drained white beans, like cannellini or Great Northern, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. All the flavor, none of the meat!

Extra Veggies

Toss in handfuls of baby spinach, kale, or zucchini, diced small, near the end of cooking for a boost of color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This chowder is a meal in itself, but to make it extra special, pair it with warm crusty bread, jalapeño cheddar cornbread, or a crisp side salad. For toppings, don’t forget fresh cilantro, green onions, avocado, and crunchy tortilla strips. A squeeze of lime wakes up all the flavors!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often; add a splash of broth or cream if it gets too thick. This chowder also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chipotle Chicken Corn Chowder (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The flavors get even better after a day or two. Just store in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

Q: How spicy is this chowder?
A: It has a gentle, smoky heat from the chipotle, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chipotle pepper to taste.

Q: What’s the best way to shred the chicken?
A: Use two forks to pull apart cooked chicken breasts or thighs, or simply use your hands if it’s cool enough. Rotisserie chicken makes this step super easy.

Ready to experience rich, smoky, and ultra-satisfying comfort food at its best? Make this Chipotle Chicken Corn Chowder tonight! If you try it, please leave a comment or rating below—I love hearing what you think!