Smoky Chipotle Shrimp and Corn Chowder

Experience the rich, smoky, and satisfying flavors of this incredible Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle. Infused with a distinctive Texas-sized kick from chipotles and brimming with sweet, succulent shrimp, tender corn, and a vibrant medley of garden-fresh vegetables, this creamy chowder is an absolute triumph for anyone who savors hearty, comforting soups. Prepare your spoon – a delightful culinary adventure awaits!

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This heartwarming and robust chowder has been a cherished recipe in my kitchen for over two decades, tracing its roots back to my days running a deli in the heart of Texas. The smoky, complex flavor of chipotle peppers, once a regional secret, has since captivated palates worldwide, and this particular rendition of shrimp and corn chowder has become a beloved classic. Its creamy texture, combined with the subtle heat and deep savory notes, makes it more than just a soup – it’s a bowl of pure comfort. Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal on a chilly evening or an impressive dish to share with loved ones, this recipe promises an unforgettable experience that perfectly balances the sweetness of corn and shrimp with the intriguing depth of chipotle.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Chipotle Shrimp & Corn Chowder

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when fresh seafood meets a creamy, flavorful broth, especially when it’s elevated by the unique character of chipotle. This Shrimp & Corn Chowder isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation:

• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The star of this chowder is undoubtedly the chipotle in adobo sauce, which imparts a wonderful smoky heat that’s balanced by the natural sweetness of corn and shrimp. The bacon adds a layer of savory richness, while the vegetables provide essential freshness and texture. It’s a symphony of flavors in every spoonful.
• Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with generous chunks of potato, tender shrimp, and sweet corn, this chowder is incredibly filling and satisfying. It’s a complete meal in itself, perfect for warding off a chill or providing a comforting end to a busy day.
• Surprisingly Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet taste, this chipotle shrimp chowder is straightforward to prepare. With clear steps and common ingredients, even novice cooks can achieve a restaurant-quality dish.
• Versatile & Customizable: While the recipe provides a fantastic base, it’s also highly adaptable. Adjust the level of spice to your preference, or experiment with different types of seafood or vegetables to make it truly your own.
• Freezer-Friendly: This chowder freezes beautifully, making it an ideal candidate for meal prepping. Enjoy a fresh batch now, and save some for those days when you need a quick, delicious meal without the fuss.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this outstanding dish that combines simplicity with sophisticated flavor. This creamy shrimp chowder is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the joys of home cooking.

Essential Tools for Crafting Your Perfect Chowder

Before you dive into the delicious details of this shrimp and corn chowder recipe, ensure your kitchen is equipped with the right tools. Having the proper gear makes the cooking process smoother, more efficient, and ultimately, more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A Spacious Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: This is arguably the most crucial piece of equipment. A large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven (at least 6-8 quarts) is ideal. Its wide base allows for even sautéing of bacon and vegetables, while its depth provides ample space for simmering all the delicious ingredients without overflowing. Heavy-bottomed pots also help prevent scorching, ensuring your creamy chowder cooks perfectly.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Precision chopping is key for uniform cooking and appealing presentation. A sharp, comfortable chef’s knife will make quick work of dicing carrots, onions, celery, potatoes, and bell peppers. Ensure your knife is well-maintained to make prep work a breeze.
• Sturdy Cutting Board: A stable and generously sized cutting board is essential for safe and efficient chopping. Opt for one with a non-slip base to prevent it from sliding on your countertop, making your ingredient preparation both safer and faster.
• Whisk: A whisk is indispensable for creating a smooth, lump-free flour slurry, which is vital for thickening your chowder to that perfect creamy consistency. It also comes in handy for stirring ingredients evenly as they cook.
• Large Spoon or Ladle: For stirring your chowder as it simmers and, of course, for serving up those generous portions.

With these fundamental kitchen tools at your disposal, you’re well on your way to creating a hearty and flavorful Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle that will delight your senses and satisfy your cravings. Investing in quality tools not only enhances your cooking experience but also ensures consistent, delicious results every time.

Understanding Chipotles: The Heart of the Flavor

The distinctive smoky depth and gentle heat in this shrimp and corn chowder come from a very special ingredient: the chipotle pepper. While many might recognize the name, understanding what chipotles are and how they are made truly highlights their unique contribution to culinary creations.

At its core, a chipotle is simply a smoked jalapeño pepper. The journey begins with fully ripened red jalapeños. Unlike their green, less mature counterparts, red jalapeños have a sweeter, fruitier flavor profile. These mature peppers are then subjected to a traditional smoking process, typically over wood fires, for several days. This slow smoking process dehydrates the peppers and infuses them with an incredibly rich, complex smoky aroma and flavor that green jalapeños simply don’t possess. The result is a pepper that retains a pleasant medium heat while gaining layers of earthy, robust smokiness.

Chipotle peppers are commonly available in a few forms:

• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: This is the form we’ll be using for this recipe, and for good reason. These are rehydrated, smoked jalapeños packed in a tangy, zesty, and slightly sweet tomato-based sauce, often seasoned with garlic, vinegar, and other spices. The adobo sauce itself is a flavor powerhouse, contributing a vibrant, savory depth that significantly enhances the chowder. When you chop the peppers, be sure to include a good spoonful of the adobo sauce to maximize its impact.
• Dried Chipotle Peppers: These are the whole, dried, smoked jalapeños. They can be rehydrated and used, or ground into a powder. While they offer pure chipotle flavor, they lack the extra punch and moisture that the adobo sauce provides.
• Chipotle Powder: Made from ground dried chipotle peppers, this is a convenient option for adding smoky heat. If you only have chipotle powder on hand, you can certainly use it. Start with about 1/2 teaspoon and taste as you go, adding more to achieve your desired level of spiciness and smokiness. Keep in mind that the powder won’t add the same tangy complexity as the adobo sauce, so you might consider a small squeeze of lime juice or a pinch of smoked paprika to compensate if using powder.

The smoky notes from the chipotle peppers, whether from the adobo sauce or dried powder, are what truly elevate this creamy shrimp and corn chowder, giving it an authentic, robust character that sets it apart from other chowders.

Key Ingredients for a Flavorful Chowder

Each ingredient in this Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle plays a vital role in building its incredible depth of flavor and creamy texture. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is essential:

• Bacon: More than just a topping, bacon is the foundation of flavor. When rendered, it provides savory fat to sauté the vegetables, and its crispy bits add a delightful textural contrast and smoky depth to the finished chowder.
• Carrots, Onions, Celery (Mirepoix): This classic aromatic trio forms the base of many delicious soups and stews. Sautéing them slowly releases their natural sweetness and savory essence, creating a robust flavor foundation for the chowder.
• Potato: Starchy potatoes, like russets, are perfect for chowder. They not only add substance and heartiness but also break down slightly as they cook, contributing to the chowder’s desirable thick and creamy consistency.
• Garlic: A universal flavor enhancer, fresh garlic adds a pungent, aromatic warmth that beautifully complements the other ingredients.
• Chipotle in Adobo Sauce: As discussed, this is the star ingredient for its smoky, spicy, and tangy kick. Make sure to finely chop the peppers and include some of the adobo sauce for maximum flavor impact.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: This provides the liquid base for the chowder. Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, ensuring it’s perfectly seasoned to your taste.
• Dried Thyme: This herb introduces a subtle, earthy, and slightly minty flavor that pairs wonderfully with both seafood and vegetables, enhancing the overall aroma of the chowder.
• Dried Bay Leaf: Adding a bay leaf during simmering infuses the broth with a mild, peppery, and slightly bitter aroma, contributing to a more complex and well-rounded flavor profile. Remember to remove it before serving.
• Red Bell Pepper: This adds a vibrant pop of color, a sweet and slightly fruity flavor, and a fresh crisp-tender texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
• Corn Niblets: Whether fresh or frozen, corn brings a burst of natural sweetness and a satisfying chewiness to the chowder, perfectly complementing the smoky chipotle and savory shrimp.
• Shrimp: The star seafood component, fresh or frozen (and thawed) shrimp adds a delicate, sweet, and succulent protein that cooks quickly and beautifully. Opt for medium to large shrimp for the best texture.
• Heavy Cream: This is what transforms the broth into a rich, velvety chowder. It adds luxurious mouthfeel and balances the savory and spicy notes.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to highlight and balance all the flavors. Always adjust to your personal preference at the end of cooking.

For the Flour Slurry: The Secret to a Creamy Chowder

• All-Purpose Flour: Used as the thickening agent.
• Water: Combined with flour to create a smooth slurry, preventing lumps when added to the hot liquid.

Crafting This Easy Shrimp Chowder Recipe: Step-by-Step

Creating this flavorful Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle is a straightforward process, built on layers of flavor. Follow these steps for a perfect, creamy, and satisfying chowder.

Scroll down for the full recipe card with exact measurements and printable instructions.

1. Render the Bacon: Begin by chopping the bacon into small pieces. Place the bacon in your large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully crispy and has rendered its fat. This step is crucial, as the bacon fat provides a rich base for sautéing your vegetables, infusing the chowder with incredible savory flavor. Once crispy, remove the bacon bits with a slotted spoon and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot. If needed, add a touch more olive oil. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the vegetables start to soften. This slow sautéing process helps to sweeten the vegetables and build a foundational flavor profile for your chowder. Next, add the finely chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Simmer with Broth and Spices: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, and the finely chopped chipotle in adobo sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and softens the root vegetables.
4. Introduce Potatoes, Corn, and Bell Pepper with Thickener: While the chowder base is simmering, prepare your flour slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and water until completely smooth and lump-free. Once the base has simmered for 20 minutes, add the diced red bell pepper, corn niblets, and the peeled and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir in the flour slurry, ensuring it’s well incorporated. Bring the chowder back to a simmer, uncovered, and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This period allows the potatoes to cook until tender and the chowder to thicken to a rich, creamy consistency.
5. Cook the Shrimp and Finish: Finally, add your shrimp to the chowder. If you are using pre-cooked shrimp, simply stir them in and heat the soup through until it reaches a gentle boil. If your shrimp are uncooked, simmer the chowder for only 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Overcooking shrimp will make them tough, so watch them carefully! Stir in the heavy cream, then season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serve your steaming hot Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle garnished with the reserved crispy bacon bits and perhaps some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy this delightful and comforting meal!

Choosing the Right Shrimp for Your Chowder

The type of shrimp you choose can significantly impact the texture and enjoyment of your Shrimp & Corn Chowder. While many varieties work, selecting the right one ensures that every spoonful delivers a satisfying bite.

Here are some considerations when picking shrimp for this delicious chowder:

• Avoid Salad Shrimp: While convenient, “salad shrimp” are typically very small and tend to shrink even further during cooking, almost disappearing into the chowder. For a truly hearty and chunky soup, you want noticeable pieces of shrimp in every bite.
• Opt for Medium to Large Shrimp: Shrimp labeled as medium (e.g., 31/40 count per pound) or large (21/25 count per pound) are ideal. They offer a substantial bite and maintain a good texture within the thick chowder. If you’re using exceptionally large shrimp, such as jumbo or colossal, you might consider cutting them into two or three pieces to ensure an even distribution throughout the soup and make them easier to eat.
• Fresh vs. Frozen: Both fresh and frozen shrimp work wonderfully. If using frozen shrimp, always thaw them properly before adding them to the chowder. The best way to thaw frozen shrimp is to place them in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes, or transfer them to the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature or using hot water, as this can affect their texture.
• Easy Peel or Zippered Shrimp: These are a true convenience for home cooks! “Easy Peel” or “zippered shrimp” come pre-slit down the back, making the peeling and deveining process incredibly quick and simple. This saves valuable prep time and ensures you’re ready to cook without the tedious work of cleaning each shrimp individually.
• Deveined or Not? While some people prefer to leave the vein in, it’s generally recommended to devein shrimp for a cleaner eating experience, especially in a creamy dish like chowder. The “vein” is actually the shrimp’s digestive tract, and while not harmful, it can sometimes carry a gritty texture or bitter taste.

By selecting quality shrimp and preparing them correctly, you’ll ensure that your Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle is not only packed with flavor but also boasts the perfect texture, making it a truly outstanding dish.

Chef Jenn’s Expert Tips for the Ultimate Shrimp Corn Chowder

Achieving the perfect creamy, flavorful Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle is easy with a few insider tips. These expert suggestions will elevate your chowder from good to absolutely exceptional, ensuring every spoonful is bursting with deliciousness.

• Control Your Sodium with Broth Choice: To master the saltiness of your chowder, always opt for low-sodium or no-sodium chicken broth. Better yet, if you have homemade chicken broth, use it! Homemade broth offers a richer, more natural flavor and allows you complete control over the sodium content, which can be adjusted later with salt to taste. This prevents your chowder from becoming overly salty right from the start.
• Frozen Corn for Simplicity and Consistency: While fresh corn off the cob is delightful in season, high-quality frozen corn niblets are a fantastic and convenient alternative. They are picked at their peak sweetness and flash-frozen, meaning they retain their flavor and texture year-round. There’s no need to thaw them before adding them to the chowder; they’ll cook beautifully right in the pot.
• Economical and Flavorful Bacon Ends: Ask your butcher for bacon ends and pieces. This economical cut of bacon, often irregular in shape, is typically cheaper than sliced bacon and perfect for recipes where bacon is chopped and cooked. It renders fat just as effectively and delivers the same delicious smoky flavor, making it a smart choice for this chowder without compromising taste. You can often find pre-packaged bacon ends and pieces in the grocery store as well.
• Start with Less Chipotle, Adjust to Taste: Chipotle peppers in adobo can vary in heat, and individual spice preferences differ greatly. Begin with just 1 tablespoon of finely chopped chipotle in adobo sauce. This provides a noticeable smoky kick without overpowering the other flavors. After simmering, taste the chowder and add more chipotle, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired level of heat and smokiness. It’s much easier to add more spice than to tone it down!
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, especially in hot soup. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough. Add the shrimp in the final few minutes of cooking and simmer just until they turn pink and opaque. This typically takes only 2-3 minutes for uncooked shrimp.
• Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving adds a wonderful fresh counterpoint to the rich, creamy chowder. A squeeze of lime juice can also brighten the flavors beautifully.

By following these tips, you’ll create a Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle that is perfectly balanced, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, impressing everyone who tries it.

Serving Suggestions for Your Chipotle Shrimp & Corn Chowder

This hearty Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle is substantial enough to be a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the dining experience even further. Here are some delicious ideas to serve alongside your flavorful chowder:

• Crusty Bread or Rolls: A classic pairing, a warm, crusty heel of bread or a soft dinner roll is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the rich, creamy chowder. Consider serving it with an amazing Tomato Jam or a smear of herbed butter for an extra touch of indulgence.
• Green Salad: To balance the richness of the chowder, a light and crisp green salad is an excellent choice. A simple mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast and adds a healthy element to your meal.
• Gourmet Sandwiches: For a more substantial lunch or dinner, pair a smaller serving of the chowder with a hearty sandwich. A savory sandwich like this Rachel Sandwich would be a fantastic complement, offering a different texture and flavor profile.
• Cornbread or Corn Muffins: Echoing the corn in the chowder, warm cornbread or corn muffins are a natural and delicious choice. Their slightly sweet and crumbly texture offers a comforting accompaniment.
• Garnishes: Don’t underestimate the power of a simple garnish! A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or parsley, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a few extra crispy bacon bits, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can add visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor.
• Beverage Pairings: For adult guests, a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can cut through the creaminess and complement the seafood. For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea or a sparkling lemonade would be refreshing.

Whether you choose a simple slice of bread or a more elaborate side, this Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle is sure to be the star of your meal.

Discover More Comforting Recipes You’ll Love

If you’ve enjoyed the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle, you’re in for a treat! We have a collection of other beloved recipes that promise the same hearty satisfaction and delightful taste. Explore these favorites to expand your culinary repertoire:

Is This Shrimp Chowder Recipe Freezer-Friendly?

Absolutely! One of the many wonderful aspects of this Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle is its excellent freezer-friendly nature. In fact, I often make a double batch specifically to have some on hand for quick, delicious meals. It’s truly my favorite soup, and knowing I can pull a portion from the freezer makes busy days so much easier.

Here’s how to best freeze and reheat your chowder to preserve its creamy texture and rich flavor:

1. Cool Thoroughly: Before freezing, it’s crucial to allow the chowder to cool completely to room temperature. This prevents ice crystals from forming (which can affect texture) and ensures food safety. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the pot in an ice bath or transferring the chowder to shallow containers.
2. Package in Freezer-Safe Containers: Once cooled, transfer the chowder into airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using containers, leave about an inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion as the chowder freezes. If using bags, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
3. Freezing Duration: This shrimp chowder can be stored in the freezer for up to three months without significant loss of quality. Beyond that, the flavors might start to diminish, and the texture could change slightly.
4. Thawing: For best results, thaw the frozen chowder overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re in a hurry, you can gently thaw it on the stovetop over very low heat, stirring frequently, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
5. Reheating: Once thawed, reheat the chowder gently in a pot on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and simmering. Avoid bringing it to a rapid boil, as this can sometimes cause the cream to separate. If the chowder seems too thick after reheating, you can thin it with a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

Having a stash of this delectable Shrimp & Corn Chowder in your freezer is like having a homemade comfort meal ready at a moment’s notice. It’s perfect for impromptu dinners or when you simply don’t feel like cooking from scratch.

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Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle

This Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle is loaded with sweet shrimp and tender vegetables, featuring a delicious smoky kick from chipotle peppers!

Course Soups & Stews

Cuisine American

Keyword chipotle, chowder, easy seafood recipe, seafood, shrimp, soup

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Total Time 40 minutes minutes

Servings 12 servings

Calories 168kcal

Author Chef Jenn

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon chopped
• 1 cup carrots diced
• 1 cup onions diced
• 1 cup celery diced
• 1 cup potato peeled and diced
• 2 tsp garlic finely chopped
• 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce finely chopped
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 dried bay leaf
• 1 cup red bell pepper diced
• 1 cup corn niblets
• 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper

For the flour slurry

• 2 tbsp all purpose flour
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving 1-2 tablespoons of fat in the pot. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots to the pot and sauté for about 6 minutes, or until the onion is translucent. Stir in the finely chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the low sodium chicken broth. Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, minced chipotle in adobo sauce, and diced potatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook for about 10 minutes to soften the vegetables.
• While the chowder simmers, prepare the flour slurry: in a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and water until completely smooth with no lumps.
• To the simmering chowder, add the diced red bell pepper and corn. Slowly stir in the flour slurry. Bring the mixture back to a simmer, cooking uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chowder thickens and the potatoes are tender.
• Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and the heavy cream to the soup. If using cooked shrimp, simply heat the soup through until it reaches a gentle boil. If using uncooked shrimp, simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with reserved crispy bacon bits if desired.

Notes

Adjust the amount of chipotle in adobo sauce to suit your personal spice preference. Remember, it’s easier to add more spice than to take it away.

Nutrition

Serving: 0.75cup | Calories: 168kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 123mg | Sodium: 536mg | Potassium: 321mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 2539IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 88mg | Iron: 1mg

A Note on Nutritional Information

Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed.