As I was stirring my latest creation, the aroma of sautéed vegetables wafted through the kitchen, immediately igniting a sense of warmth and comfort. Today, I’m excited to share my Healthy Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder, a culinary hug that even the busiest home chef can whip up. This soup isn’t just hearty and nourishing; it’s also incredibly creamy without a hint of heavy cream, making it a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Packed with vibrant vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, and celery, and made even easier with rotisserie chicken, this chowder is bound to be a family favorite. Plus, it’s gluten-free friendly, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Are you ready to indulge in a bowl of creamy goodness that won’t weigh you down? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why Is This Chowder a Must-Try?
Hearty and Healthy: This chowder is packed with nutritious vegetables, making it a nourishing meal that’s as filling as it is flavorful.
Creamy Without Guilt: Enjoy a rich, creamy texture from blended cauliflower and milk, without the heaviness of traditional cream-based soups.
Quick and Convenient: With rotisserie chicken, you can save time and effort, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to swap cauliflower for broccoli or add spices for an extra kick, ensuring every bowl is uniquely yours.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This chowder freezes well, so you can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy a comforting bowl whenever the craving strikes.
Family Favorite Appeal: It’s simple enough for any home chef, making it a go-to meal that everyone will love. You might also enjoy it alongside some delicious Buffalo Chicken Macaroni for a fun twist on comfort food!
Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder Ingredients
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For the Vegetables
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Thyme – Adds aromatic flavor; use fresh thyme for the best results.
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Cauliflower – Provides a creamy base when blended; use fresh, broken into florets (about 6 cups).
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Small Yellow Potatoes – Adds structure and heartiness to the chowder; approximately 12 ounces, scrubbed and cut into bite-size pieces.
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Carrots – Adds sweetness and color; slice about ¼ inch thick (about 6 medium or 3 cups).
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Celery – Contributes crunch and flavor; halve and thinly slice 2 stalks.
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For the Broth
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Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Serves as the soup base; use 5 cups for great flavor without excess sodium.
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Bay Leaves – Imparts depth of flavor; use 2 leaves.
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Garlic Salt – Enhances overall flavor profile; use 2 teaspoons.
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Onion Powder – Adds savory undertones; use 2 teaspoons.
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Kosher Salt – For seasoning to taste; start with 1 teaspoon.
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For Thickening and Creaminess
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Butter – For the Beurre Manie thickening mix; use 3 tablespoons of soft butter.
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All-Purpose Flour – Pairs with butter for thickening; use 3 tablespoons.
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Milk – Adds creaminess; whole or 2% milk works well; use 2 cups.
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For the Protein
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Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Enhances flavor and helps thicken the chowder; shred and use 4 ounces.
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Cooked Chicken or Turkey – Adds protein and heartiness; use 2½-3 cups, cut into bite-size pieces. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder
Step 1: Prep Thyme
Begin your Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder by bundling fresh thyme sprigs with kitchen string, using about 5-6 sprigs for an aromatic boost. This prep should take just a couple of minutes. You’ll appreciate the delightful scent of thyme as you proceed, setting the stage for a flavorful soup.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large Dutch oven, combine the cauliflower florets, diced yellow potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Pour in 5 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, adding 2 bay leaves, the prepared thyme, 2 teaspoons of garlic salt, 2 teaspoons of onion powder, and kosher salt to taste. Stir everything together over medium-high heat until the mixture reaches a gentle boil, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer Cook
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the chowder simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender and beautifully fragrant. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing those wonderful flavors to meld.
Step 4: Prepare Beurre Manie
While the chowder simmers, create the Beurre Manie, a thickening agent for your soup. In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of softened butter and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until it forms a smooth paste. Set this aside, as you’ll add it to the chowder in the next step for that creamy texture.
Step 5: Blend Veggies
After simmering, remove and discard the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Use a ladle to scoop out about 3 cups of the soup into a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, then return this mixture back to the pot, allowing it to beautifully thicken the chowder while stirring gently to combine.
Step 6: Add Milk and Chicken
Next, stir in 2 cups of milk and 2½ to 3 cups of bite-sized pieces of cooked chicken or turkey—rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here. Heat the chowder over low heat, bringing it to a gentle simmer again while stirring occasionally, allowing those rich flavors to come together beautifully.
Step 7: Thicken Chowder
Gradually add the prepared Beurre Manie to the simmering chowder, stirring continuously until it’s fully incorporated. This step typically takes about 3-5 minutes; watch for the soup’s consistency to thicken, transforming it into the luscious, creamy Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder you’re aiming for.
Step 8: Incorporate Cheese
Finally, stir in 4 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and wonderfully gooey. Taste your chowder and season with more salt and pepper as desired, enhancing the flavors. This last touch ensures each bowl is rich, creamy, and full of cheesy goodness, ready to warm hearts and bellies alike.
Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder Variations
Feel free to personalize this chowder and make it your own with these delightful twists!
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Broccoli Swap: Replace cauliflower with broccoli for a brighter flavor and vibrant color.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch mixed with water instead of Beurre Manie for a quick gluten-free thickening solution. This alternative makes the chowder just as creamy and delicious!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra layer of warmth that elevates the chowder beautifully. The heat adds a surprising but enjoyable element.
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Herb Twist: Mix in fresh spinach or kale at the end of cooking for added nutrients and vibrant green color, transforming the chowder into a fully loaded veggie delight.
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Vegan Version: Substitute the milk with almond or coconut milk and use plant-based cheese to create a hearty vegan chowder. Don’t forget to add extra seasonings to enhance flavor.
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Cheese Lovers Delight: Try blending in different types of cheese, like Gouda or pepper jack, for a unique flavor profile and extra creaminess that will have everyone asking for more!
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Rotisserie Chicken Variation: For a smoky twist, use BBQ-flavored rotisserie chicken to create a unique fusion of flavors, making each spoonful a savory surprise.
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Storage-Friendly: When freezing, portion the chowder and add in some extra diced vegetables before sealing for quick meals that are easy to reheat and just as satisfying as the day they were made.
Enjoy your cooking journey, and for additional inspiration, you might want to look at a comforting bowl of Clam Chowder Comfort or perhaps a quick and flavor-packed Ground Chicken Broccoli for a delightful weeknight dinner!
Make Ahead Options
This Healthy Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder is perfect for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy cozy comfort without the last-minute rush. You can chop all the vegetables, including cauliflower, potatoes, and carrots, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Prepare the Beurre Manie (butter and flour mixture) ahead of time and keep it wrapped in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy your chowder, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the broth in a pot, simmer, and add the blended mixture followed by the milk, chicken, and cheese, ensuring a deliciously creamy dish just as if you made it fresh!
Expert Tips for Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder
Blend Smoothly: Ensure your blended soup mixture is completely smooth to achieve that creamy texture. Any lumps can disrupt the experience of this Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder.
Thickening Tips: Mix the Beurre Manie thoroughly to prevent clumping. This will ensure your chowder thickens perfectly without any odd textures.
Chicken Shortcuts: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time, making this chowder even quicker to prepare without sacrificing flavor.
Season Wisely: Adjust the salt according to the sodium content of your chicken broth. Taste as you go for the perfect seasoning balance!
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap cauliflower with broccoli or add other seasonal vegetables for a unique twist, keeping your chowder fresh and exciting!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
Freezer: This chowder freezes beautifully! Ladle cooled chowder into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently. Add a bit of milk or chicken broth to restore its creamy texture.
Portioning: For easy meals, freeze chowder in individual servings. This makes it convenient to grab a warm bowl whenever you’re craving comfort!
What to Serve with Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder
To create the perfect meal that complements the warmth of your chowder, consider these delightful pairings.
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Crusty Bread: Offers a rustic touch, perfect for dipping into the silky chowder while adding a satisfying crunch. There’s something so comforting about pairing your soup with a thick slice of warm, artisan bread.
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Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chowder, balancing flavors beautifully. Toss mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette for an extra kick.
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Cheesy Garlic Toast: This melty, toasty delight harmonizes wonderfully with the cheddar cheese in the chowder. It’s deliciously indulgent, making dinner feel extra special.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies add sweetness and texture, enhancing the chowder’s heartiness. Think carrots, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts, seasoned and roasted to perfection.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: These add a touch of sweetness that juxtaposes beautifully with the savory chowder. Their vibrant hue also brightens up the plate, making your meal visually appealing.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink to cleanse the palate, complementing the chowder’s rich flavors. The citrus adds a vibrant twist that invigorates each bite.
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Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light, fruity sorbet provides a refreshing end to the meal, balancing the savory flavors of the chowder. It’s a sweet escape after a comforting bowl.
Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cauliflower for my chowder?
Absolutely! When selecting cauliflower, look for heads that are white with tightly packed florets and green leaves. Avoid any with dark spots or soft patches, as this indicates spoilage. Fresh cauliflower should feel heavy and firm for the size, indicating it’s at its peak freshness for your creamy chowder.
How should I store leftover Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder?
To store your chowder, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to prevent condensation that could make it watery. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess!
Can I freeze Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder?
Yes, this chowder freezes quite well! Allow the chowder to cool completely, then ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of headspace for expansion. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on low heat, adding a bit of milk or chicken broth to maintain its creamy texture.
What if my chowder turns out too thick or thin?
If you find your chowder is too thick after cooking, you can simply add more milk or chicken broth gradually while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, continue simmering it uncovered for a few minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken up. Give it a taste and adjust with extra seasoning if needed—it’s all about making it perfect for you!
Is this chowder suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Very! To make this Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the Beurre Manie with cornstarch. Mix equal parts cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then add it to the simmering chowder until thickened. As always, double-check all ingredients used to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I give this chowder to my pets?
While the ingredients are wholesome, it’s best to avoid sharing this chowder with pets, especially due to the onions and garlic powder which can be harmful to them in larger quantities. Stick to pet-safe treats when sharing the mealtime love!
Creamy Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin your Chicken Cauliflower Cheddar Chowder by bundling fresh thyme sprigs with kitchen string, using about 5-6 sprigs for an aromatic boost.
- In a large Dutch oven, combine the cauliflower florets, diced yellow potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Pour in 5 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, adding 2 bay leaves, the prepared thyme, 2 teaspoons of garlic salt, 2 teaspoons of onion powder, and kosher salt to taste. Stir everything together over medium-high heat until the mixture reaches a gentle boil, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let the chowder simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender and beautifully fragrant.
- While the chowder simmers, create the Beurre Manie by mixing together 3 tablespoons of softened butter and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until it forms a smooth paste.
- After simmering, remove and discard the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Use a ladle to scoop out about 3 cups of the soup into a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, then return this mixture back to the pot.
- Next, stir in 2 cups of milk and 2½ to 3 cups of bite-sized pieces of cooked chicken or turkey. Heat the chowder over low heat, bringing it to a gentle simmer again while stirring occasionally.
- Gradually add the prepared Beurre Manie to the simmering chowder, stirring continuously until it’s fully incorporated.
- Finally, stir in 4 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and wonderfully gooey. Taste your chowder and season with more salt and pepper as desired.
