Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Corn Soup Recipe

Warm & Cozy Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Corn Soup Recipe

Crisp autumn evenings call for a comforting slow cooker chicken and corn soup that feels like a warm hug.

Hearty ingredients mingle together, creating a soul-soothing blend of flavors.

Tender chicken pieces float among golden corn kernels, promising a satisfying meal.

Minimal prep work means you can focus on enjoying the rich, creamy broth.

Simple pantry staples come together effortlessly in this one-pot wonder.

Households will love how quickly this nourishing soup comes together with minimal effort.

Grab a spoon and let the comfort begin!

Ingredients That Make This Slow Cooker Soup Work

Protein Base:
  • Chicken: Lean protein that becomes tender and easily shredded in the slow cooker, choose boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs for best results.
  • Chicken Broth: Creates the liquid base of the soup, provides deep flavor and helps cook the chicken.
Corn and Vegetables:
  • Corn, Cream-Style Corn: Sweet corn adds texture and flavor, cream-style corn helps thicken the soup naturally.
  • Onion, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that build a flavor foundation, fresh onions and garlic provide depth.
Seasoning and Enhancers:
  • Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and enhance overall taste.
  • Thyme (or Italian Seasoning): Herb that adds herbal undertones, dried herbs work best in slow cooker recipes.
  • Butter: Optional ingredient that adds richness and smoothness to the soup.
  • Cornstarch: Optional thickening agent used to adjust soup consistency if needed.

Cooking a Creamy Chicken Corn Soup with Ease

Step 1: Prepare Soup Base

Toss these ingredients into your slow cooker:
  • Boneless chicken pieces
  • Whole kernel corn
  • Cream-style corn
  • Diced onions
  • Minced garlic
  • Chicken broth
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Dried thyme
  • Unsalted butter

Mix everything gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Soup

Cover the slow cooker and set to low temperature. Cook for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should become super tender and easily fall apart.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Carefully remove chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, pull the chicken apart into soft, delicate shreds. Return the shredded chicken back into the soup.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

Want a thicker consistency? Create a quick cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir this into the soup and cook on high for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Perfect the Flavor

Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls. Top with fresh herbs, crispy crackers, or a dollop of sour cream for extra deliciousness.

Tips to Keep Corn Sweet and Chicken Tender

  • Minimize Moisture Loss: Use chicken breasts with skin on to keep the meat juicy and prevent drying out during slow cooking.
  • Boost Flavor Depth: Sauté onions and garlic briefly before adding to the slow cooker to enhance their natural sweetness and aromatic qualities.
  • Customize Consistency: Adjust soup thickness by controlling the amount of cornstarch slurry or using less broth for a more concentrated texture.
  • Dietary Adaptation: Swap regular butter with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version, making the soup suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets.
  • Garnish Generously: Top with fresh herbs like chopped parsley, green onions, or crispy bacon bits to add texture and extra flavor complexity.

Reheat This Soup Without Losing Texture

  • Transfer cooled soup to an airtight container and seal tightly. Chicken and corn soup stays fresh for 35 days when refrigerated at 40°F or below.
  • Pour soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months, maintaining best quality and flavor.
  • Pour soup into a saucepan, stirring occasionally. Warm over medium heat until heated through, about 57 minutes. Add a splash of broth if soup appears too thick.
  • Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals. Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly, typically taking 12 minutes total.

Great Pairings for a Light but Filling Bowl

  • Slice crusty, tangy sourdough to soak up the rich, creamy soup and balance its hearty flavors.
  • Select a chilled, unoaked Chardonnay with bright acidity to cut through the soup's richness and enhance its subtle herbal notes.
  • Create a light side salad with mixed greens, fresh herbs, and a zesty vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting soup.
  • Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or green onions on top to add a burst of color, freshness, and aromatic complexity to the dish.

Flavor Add-Ins to Keep It Fresh

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular broth with gluten-free chicken broth and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Omit butter and use olive oil instead, swap cream-style corn for fresh corn kernels to reduce dairy content.
  • Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Spicy Southwest Remix: Add diced green chilies, cumin, and cayenne pepper for a zesty flavor profile, top with fresh cilantro and jalapeños.

FAQs for Slow Cooker Soup Lovers

  • Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken directly in the slow cooker. Just add 1-2 hours to the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender.

  • Is this soup healthy?

This soup is relatively nutritious, providing protein from chicken, fiber from corn, and essential vitamins. It’s a balanced, comforting meal that’s lower in calories compared to many cream-based soups.

  • What can I do if the soup is too thin?

Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing equal parts cornstarch and cold water, then stir it into the soup. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes to thicken the consistency.

  • Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the butter and use a dairy-free broth. The cream-style corn will still provide a creamy texture without adding dairy.

Why Chicken and Corn Soup Is a Cozy Favorite

  • Toss ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic with minimal hands-on cooking time.
  • Simple, budget-friendly ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store, making this soup a stress-free cooking experience.
  • Warm, hearty soup that appeals to all ages, perfect for cozy family dinners or when you need a quick, satisfying meal.
  • Easily adaptable with optional toppings and seasonings, allowing you to personalize the soup to match your taste preferences or use available ingredients.
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Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Corn Soup Recipe

Easy Slow Cooker Chicken and Corn Soup Recipe


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4.6 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Mexican-style chicken and corn soup simmers with comforting flavors, blending tender shredded chicken and sweet corn kernels. Home cooks can enjoy this simple, nourishing dish that warms from within and satisfies hunger with minimal preparation effort.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Corn and Liquid Base:

  • 1 (15 ounces / 425 grams) can sweet corn, drained
  • 1 (15 ounces / 425 grams) can cream-style corn
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, to thicken)

Optional Toppings:

  • Chopped green onions
  • Fresh parsley
  • Shredded cheese
  • Crushed crackers

Instructions

  1. Combine succulent chicken, sweet corn kernels, creamy corn puree, diced onions, minced garlic, rich broth, aromatic seasonings, and butter into the slow cooker vessel.
  2. Secure the lid and allow the mixture to gently simmer on low temperature for 5-6 hours or high temperature for 3-4 hours, ensuring the chicken becomes perfectly tender and infused with flavor.
  3. Carefully extract the cooked chicken from the liquid, using two forks to delicately shred the meat into delectable, bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded meat back into the soup.
  4. For those desiring a more luxurious, velvety consistency, whisk together a cornstarch mixture and fold into the soup, continuing to cook on high setting for an additional 15-20 minutes to achieve desired thickness.
  5. Perform a final flavor assessment, adjusting seasonings with salt, pepper, or additional herbs to enhance the overall taste profile.
  6. Ladle the steaming, comforting soup into serving bowls and garnish with optional toppings like fresh herbs, crispy croutons, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of indulgence.

Notes

  • Customize the soup’s consistency by adjusting liquid levels or adding a cornstarch slurry for a thicker texture.
  • Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for easy shredding and tender meat throughout the soup.
  • Enhance flavor depth by sautéing onions and garlic before adding to the slow cooker for a richer taste profile.
  • Make it diet-friendly by using low-sodium broth, swapping cream-style corn for fresh corn kernels, or adding extra vegetables like carrots and celery for added nutrition.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 95
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 260 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Ethan Miller

Ethan Miller

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Food Photography and Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Blogging
  • Ingredient Sourcing and Sustainability Practices

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and food safety protocols.

Culinary Institute of the Pacific

  • Program: Certificate in International Cuisine
  • Focus: Exploration of global culinary traditions, flavor profiles, and plating artistry.

Ethan’s culinary journey began in his grandmother’s kitchen, where he first learned to play with flavors and ingredients. With formal training in culinary arts and a deep love for international cuisines, Ethan’s goal is to share the joy of cooking with others.

He believes food is all about creativity and bringing people together, one meal at a time. When he’s not experimenting with new dishes, he enjoys hiking in the Oregon wilderness and discovering fresh, local ingredients.

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