Creamy Chicken, Shrimp & Crab Chowder: A Rich & Hearty Comfort Recipe

Creamy Chicken, Shrimp & Crab Chowder is a luxurious, comforting soup that brings together tender chicken, sweet shrimp, and delicate crab meat in a rich, velvety broth. Inspired by coastal-style chowders but made heartier with chicken, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners, special occasions, or when you want a truly satisfying bowl of comfort food.

Creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein, this chowder feels indulgent while still being easy enough to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra Creamy & Comforting – Rich, smooth texture
• Surf & Turf Style – Chicken and seafood in one dish
• Hearty & Filling – A full meal in a bowl
• Great for Cold Days – Warming and nourishing
• Crowd-Pleasing – Perfect for family dinners or guests
• Customizable – Easy to adjust seafood or thickness

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1½ cups cooked chicken, diced
• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ lb crab meat (lump or claw)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Build the Base
   In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Cook Potatoes
   Stir in potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 12–15 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
3. Add Dairy
   Reduce heat and stir in milk and cream. Heat gently, do not boil.
4. Add Chicken & Seafood
   Add cooked chicken, shrimp, and crab meat. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Season
   Add salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve & Enjoy
   Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs.

How to Serve

• Plating Tips: Serve hot with herbs on top
• Side Pairings: Crusty bread, biscuits, or oyster crackers
• Leftover Uses: Reheat gently for lunch the next day
• Beverage Pairing: Sparkling water, tea, or white wine

Additional Tips

• Keep heat low after adding cream to prevent curdling
• Use cooked chicken to avoid overcooking
• Add seafood near the end for best texture
• Chowder thickens as it sits, add milk when reheating

Variations

• Seafood-Only Version: Skip chicken and add more shrimp or fish
• Extra Creamy: Add an extra splash of cream
• Corn Chowder Twist: Add sweet corn kernels
• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or chili flakes

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerate: Up to 3 days
• Freeze: Not recommended (cream may separate)
• Reheat: Gently on stovetop, stirring often

Special Equipment

• Large heavy-bottom pot
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp or crab?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before using.

Is this chowder very thick?
It’s creamy but spoonable, not overly thick.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but reheat gently to protect the cream.

What crab meat works best?
Lump or claw meat both work well.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken, Shrimp & Crab Chowder is the ultimate comfort soup, rich, hearty, and full of layered flavor. Combining tender chicken with sweet seafood in a creamy broth, this chowder is perfect for cozy nights, family meals, or when you want to serve something truly special.