Go Back
Print Recipe

Turkey Corn Chowder

This Turkey Corn Chowder is the ultimate post-holiday comfort soup — rich, creamy, and brimming with hearty goodness. Perfect for chilly nights, this recipe transforms leftover turkey into a warm and satisfying bowl filled with tender potatoes, sweet corn, and a silky broth. Blended with simple pantry staples and finished with fresh herbs, this homemade chowder is easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you're cozying up by the fire or looking for a delicious way to use Thanksgiving leftovers, this chowder delivers comfort in every spoonful.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion finely diced
  • 1 large carrot thinly sliced
  • 3 russet potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 2 cups shredded cooked turkey white or dark meat
  • 1 can 15 oz sweet corn, drained
  • 1 can 14.75 oz creamed corn
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 cups 2% milk or whole milk for extra creaminess
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • A pinch of chili flakes optional, for mild heat
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Sauté the base: In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sliced carrots. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Add the potatoes: Stir in the cubed potatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing them to absorb the buttery flavors.
  • Season: Sprinkle in thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly.
  • Add turkey and corn: Stir in the shredded turkey, sweet corn, and creamed corn. Mix to combine.
  • Pour in broth: Add the chicken broth, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
  • Stir in milk: Slowly pour in the milk, stirring as you go. Let the chowder simmer (but not boil) for another 10 minutes to thicken naturally.
  • Taste and adjust: Add more salt or pepper if needed. If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash a few potato pieces with a fork to create a creamy texture.
  • Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and top with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra thyme.

Notes

  • Use leftover turkey: This is the perfect way to repurpose Thanksgiving or roast turkey into something cozy and new.
  • Make it vegetarian: Swap the turkey for extra veggies like corn, carrots, and zucchini, and use vegetable broth instead.
  • Creamier texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for added richness.
  • Add a smoky twist: A touch of smoked paprika or cooked bacon bits adds depth to the flavor.