If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, look no further than this Creamed Corn Chicken Recipe. Tender, juicy chicken breasts seasoned to perfection and cooked in the rich, luscious cream and sweet corn mixture come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. Every bite offers a balance of smoky bacon, velvety cream, and just the right hint of spice, making it an absolute favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Once you try this Creamed Corn Chicken Recipe, it will undoubtedly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the smoky bacon that adds depth to the creamy sweetness of corn, every element works harmoniously to create a dish you’ll crave again and again.
- Bacon (4 slices, chopped): Provides a smoky, crispy contrast that elevates the entire dish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 pounds): The tender protein base that absorbs all the lovely flavors.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and a beautiful color to the chicken.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances savory notes without overpowering.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for balancing and bringing out all the flavors.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a mild kick and depth.
- Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Creates a luscious base for cooking the onions and garlic.
- Onion (½ small, diced): Adds a sweet, tender crunch that complements the creamy sauce.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings fresh, aromatic flavor to brighten the dish.
- Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon): Gives a touch of heat that wakes up the palate.
- Frozen corn kernels (1 15-ounce bag): Their natural sweetness shines in the creamy sauce.
- Heavy cream (4 ounces): The star of the sauce that binds everything together with richness.
How to Make Creamed Corn Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon and Cook the Chicken
Begin by cooking the chopped bacon over medium heat until it turns beautifully crisp. This is where you build that signature smoky flavor. Remove the bacon but keep 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pan – that’s your magic cooking fat. Next, prepare the chicken breasts by slicing or pounding them to about ¾-inch thickness for even cooking. Season them generously with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then, cook the chicken breasts in the hot bacon grease until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), locking in juiciness and flavor. Once cooked, set them aside while you get the sauce going.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the butter to the skillet along with the diced onion. Let the onion soften and turn a light golden brown; this slow cooking brings out its natural sweetness that will perfectly balance the creaminess later. Next, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook just until you can smell their irresistible aroma filling the kitchen.
Step 3: Incorporate Corn and Cream
Stir in the frozen corn kernels, letting them cook through and absorb some of those savory onion and garlic flavors. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring everything to combine into a smooth, luscious base. The cream will gently thicken as it simmers, making the sauce velvety and delicious.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Now gently fold the cooked bacon back into the mixture for that smoky crunch throughout. Nestle the cooked chicken breasts right into the creamy corn sauce, allowing them to soak up all those wonderful flavors as the sauce thickens just slightly more. Serve it hot for the best experience – creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious.
How to Serve Creamed Corn Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To add fresh bursts of flavor and color, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving. A little freshly ground black pepper can also add an inviting finishing touch that makes every bite even more delightful.
Side Dishes
This Creamed Corn Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple, wholesome sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread soak up the sauce perfectly. If you want something lighter, steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad offer a fresh balance to the richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the chicken nestled over fluffy rice or creamy polenta. You can even stuff the chicken breasts before cooking and then finish them in the creamy corn sauce for a surprise inside. This recipe adapts beautifully to rustic family style or elegant dinners alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Creamed Corn Chicken Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making for an easy option to enjoy again without the extra work.
Freezing
If you want to make this recipe ahead, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave using short bursts, stirring occasionally to keep the cream sauce smooth and the chicken tender. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen corn in the Creamed Corn Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh corn adds a lovely sweetness and slight crunch. Just make sure to cook it a little longer to soften it before adding the cream.
Is it necessary to cook the chicken in bacon grease?
While not essential, cooking the chicken in bacon grease infuses incredible flavor and richness that you won’t want to miss. You can substitute with butter or oil if needed, but the bacon grease is the secret to the best taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or any dairy-free cream alternative. The texture and flavor will vary slightly but remain delicious and creamy.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is perfectly cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the safest and simplest way to check doneness without cutting into the meat.
Can I add vegetables to the Creamed Corn Chicken Recipe?
Definitely! Peas, diced bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms make wonderful additions for extra color and nutrition. Just add them in when you cook the onions.
Final Thoughts
This Creamed Corn Chicken Recipe has a way of bringing comfort and joy to any meal with its creamy richness, savory bacon, and tender chicken. It’s straightforward to make but feels special enough for any occasion, whether a cozy family dinner or an effortless weekend treat. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how quickly it becomes one of your favorite go-to meals, too!
Print
Creamed Corn Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamed Corn Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in crispy bacon grease, topped with a rich, creamy corn mixture flavored with garlic and spices. It’s a comforting, hearty dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Spices & Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Produce
- ½ small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 4 ounces heavy cream
Other
- 1 (15 ounce) bag frozen corn kernels
Instructions
- Cook Bacon and Prepare Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet. Slice or pound chicken breasts to about ¾-inch thickness, then season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken in the bacon grease until fully cooked through and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add unsalted butter and diced onion to the same skillet. Cook over medium heat until the onion softens and starts to brown lightly. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Cook Corn and Add Cream: Stir in the frozen corn kernels and cook until they are heated through, about 3-5 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine the mixture evenly.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir it into the creamy corn mixture. Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, covering them with the creamed corn. Continue cooking gently over medium-low heat until the cream thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Serve the dish hot for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness helps them cook evenly.
- You can adjust the red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- Using fresh corn can be a substitute if available, but frozen corn works great for this recipe.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.
