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Smoky Turkey Corn Chowder with Bacon

This smoky turkey corn chowder is a vibrant, high-protein meal that makes the most of seasonal ingredients and leftovers. Combining tender shredded turkey with sweet potato, golden corn, and a hint of jalapeño heat, this dish offers a wonderful depth of flavour. The addition of crispy bacon and aromatic cumin creates a savoury, smoky profile that is perfectly balanced by the richness of single cream.

Ideal for a comforting midweek dinner or a nutritious weekend lunch, this homemade chowder is both filling and wholesome. It provides a clever way to use roast turkey or chicken, transforming simple pantry staples into a sophisticated soup. Serve it piping hot with a garnish of spring onions and fresh parsley for a satisfying and healthy family meal.

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Ingredients for Smoky Turkey Corn Chowder with Bacon

  • 6 slices bacon (110g)

  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

  • 1 medium carrot, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds (halved lengthwise if large)

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 red pepper, seeded and chopped

  • 1/2 medium jalapeño, finely chopped, plus more to taste

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1450ml (1350g) homemade or store-bought low-sodium chicken or turkey broth

  • 1 medium sweet potato (about 450g ), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

  • Two 110g cans mild diced green chillies, drained

  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano

  • 2 dried bay leaves

  • 4 cups shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken

  • 275g frozen corn, thawed

  • 110g half-and-half, plus more to taste

  • Sliced spring onions, for serving

  • Chopped parsley, for serving

In a large pot over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain on a paper towel and crumble into small pieces and set aside, reserving the fat in the pot.

Pour off all but 1 tablespoon fat, return the pot to medium heat, and add onion, carrot, 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoons pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minutes more. Add jalapeño and cumin and cook, stirring, 1 minute more.

Add broth, sweet potato, chillies, oregano, and bay leaves and bring to a simmer. Cook until sweet potato is tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the turkey or chicken and corn and cook until warmed through, 3 to 5 minutes. Add 1/2 teaspoons salt, 1/4 teaspoons pepper, and half-and-half. Continue to cook until just warmed through. Taste and adjust seasoning, thinning the chowder with another 60ml half-and-half, if desired.

Serve chowder topped with crumbled bacon, spring onions, and parsley.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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