Go Back
Print Recipe

Light Turkey & Corn Chowder

This Light Turkey & Corn Chowder is everything you love in a comforting soup — creamy, hearty, and full of flavor — but made lighter for everyday cooking. Each spoonful blends tender turkey, sweet corn, and colorful vegetables in a perfectly seasoned, creamy broth that feels indulgent yet wholesome. It’s an ideal recipe for using up leftover turkey or chicken while delivering a balanced and satisfying meal your family will adore.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups shredded cooked turkey or chicken
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 stalk celery diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 ¼ cups frozen corn kernels
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 cups skim milk
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 4 oz can diced green chiles
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for mild heat
  • Green onions thinly sliced, for garnish

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add diced green chiles and cook for 1 minute, stirring to combine.
  • Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat evenly.
  • Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps.
  • Add milk, corn, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Reduce heat and cook until slightly thickened, about 10–12 minutes.
  • Add shredded turkey and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and heated through.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Ladle into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

  • Use pre-cooked turkey or chicken to save time.
  • Add diced potatoes for extra texture and creaminess.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half the milk with light cream.
  • Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 months.