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There’s something blissfully heartwarming about a bowl of chowder, especially when the chill of the day nips at your nose. I discovered this Easy Fish Chowder recipe on one of those particularly brisk autumn evenings when the sky turned a soft gray and the leaves littered the ground like confetti. With a handful of fresh ingredients and a craving for comfort food, I set out to create a dish that wouldn’t just satisfy my hunger but also soothe my soul.

Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this chowder features tender pieces of fish and crispy bacon swimming in a silky broth that hugs you like a warm blanket. Whether you’re winding down after a long week or hosting a gathering with friends, this chowder proves to be a delightful, crowd-pleasing option that’s deceptively simple to prepare. In less than an hour, you can have a dish that feels fancy but requires minimal effort—perfect for anyone ready to trade in fast food for a homemade treasure! Grab your pot, and let’s dive into this comforting culinary adventure!

Why is this Easy Fish Chowder a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll whip up a delicious chowder in under an hour.

Rich Flavor profile: The blend of tender fish, crispy bacon, and seasonings creates an unforgettable taste sensation.

Crowd-Pleasing dish: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love this warm bowl of comfort.

Versatile Variations: Easily modify the recipe to suit your tastes, whether it’s swapping fish or making it vegetarian.

Time-Saving solution: Why stress over complicated meals? This chowder is a quick route to comfort without sacrificing taste.

Trust me, once you try this chowder, you’ll never look back on fast food again. Ready to savor the flavors? Let’s get cooking!

Easy Fish Chowder Ingredients

• Embrace the comfort with these essentials for your chowder!

For the Chowder Base

Firm White Fish – Adds protein and flavor; for a twist, substitute with salmon or halibut.
Potatoes – Provide body and texture; choose Yukon or red potatoes for the best results, cut into ¾-inch cubes.
Bacon – Infuses smokiness and richness into the dish; swap for turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian version.
Unsalted Butter – Enhances flavor and helps cook vegetables; feel free to use olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Diced Onion – Gives depth to the chowder; shallots can be a sweeter alternative if desired.
Diced Celery – Adds crunch and aromatic quality; can be left out if you’re short on time or ingredients.

For the Broth

Dry White Wine – Used for deglazing and flavor enhancement; replace with additional broth for a non-alcoholic dish.
Clam Juice – This essential adds a seafood essence, but feel free to use fish stock or vegetable broth for a different twist.
Chicken Broth – Serves as the base of the chowder; opt for low-sodium or vegetable broth to keep it light.

For Seasoning

Bay Leaf & Thyme – Provide an herbal aroma; fresh herbs are recommended, but dried ones work in a pinch.
Old Bay Seasoning – A crucial seasoning blend; can be substituted with a mix of celery salt, paprika, and black pepper.
Black Pepper – Adjust to taste; freshly ground will give you the best flavor.

For Creaminess

Heavy Cream – Adds rich and velvety texture to the chowder; half-and-half or coconut milk can lighten the recipe.

Make this Easy Fish Chowder the highlight of your meal and discover warmth in every spoonful!

How to Make Easy Fish Chowder

Render Bacon Fat: Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. This will create that lovely smoky flavor we crave; remember to reserve the grease for the next step!
Sauté Vegetables: Add unsalted butter, diced onion, and diced celery to the pot. Cook these until they soften and the onions become translucent, about 5 minutes.
Deglaze and Add Potatoes: Pour in the dry white wine, scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom of the pot. Once the wine has evaporated, add the bay leaf, thyme, clam juice, chicken broth, and potatoes. Bring this mixture to a boil, then cover and let it simmer until the potatoes are almost tender, about 10 minutes.
Incorporate Fish and Cream: Gently stir in your firm white fish fillets along with the preheated heavy cream. Let this simmer uncovered for another 8-10 minutes, allowing the fish to cook through and the chowder to thicken beautifully.
Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve your chowder warm, garnished with those delicious crispy bacon bits.

Optional: A sprinkle of fresh parsley makes a lovely garnish!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Easy Fish Chowder

Crispy Bacon: Make sure your bacon is cooked until crispy before removing it; this will prevent sogginess in your chowder.
Preheat Cream: Warm your heavy cream before incorporating it into the chowder. This avoids cooling down the dish and ensures a smooth consistency.
Cooking Time Adjustment: Vary your cooking time according to the thickness of the fish pieces. Thicker chunks may need a few extra minutes to become perfectly tender.
Flavor Enhancement: Allow the chowder to sit for a few minutes before serving; this resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully. Reheat gently to prevent scorching.
Vegetarian Option: If you want a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and replace clam juice with vegetable broth while adjusting seasonings for taste—making your Easy Fish Chowder still hearty and satisfying!

What to Serve with Easy Fish Chowder?

To create a delightful meal that perfectly complements each spoonful of chowder, consider these delicious pairings.

Crusty Bread: The ideal companion, perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy goodness of the chowder. A warm, crusty loaf brings a satisfying texture to each bite.
Savory Crackers: A crunchy and flavorful option, these crackers add an enticing contrast to the smooth chowder. They can also be a fun element for kids to enjoy!
Garden Salad: Bright and fresh, a garden salad adds a refreshing note to balance the rich flavors of the chowder. Toss in seasonal vegetables for an extra crunch and vibrant colors.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon butter adds a touch of elegance and brightness to your meal. This green addition brings a lovely visual and nutritional balance.
Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw contrasts beautifully with the chowder’s creaminess, introducing a crunchy texture and tangy flavor that’s pleasing to the palate.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of crisp Chardonnay enhances the chowder’s flavors, creating a luxurious pairing. Its acidity complements the seafood beautifully, making each sip a delight.
Dessert: Finish the meal with a light dessert, like lemon sorbet or berry compote, to cleanse the palate and add a sweet sunshine after the chowder’s warmth.

With these delightful pairings, your Easy Fish Chowder will shine even brighter, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Fish Chowder meal prep options are perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a warm, comforting meal without the fuss! You can chop your vegetables and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before cooking, which saves you precious time. The chowder itself can be made a day ahead; simply prepare it as directed, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often to maintain its creamy consistency. Just like freshly made, your chowder will taste just as delicious and comforting!

Easy Fish Chowder Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!

Smoky Flavor: Replace firm white fish with smoked fish like haddock or trout for a rich, enchanting taste.
More Veggies: Add sweet corn or diced carrots to introduce a pop of sweetness and color to your chowder.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap out bacon for mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a satisfying vegetarian version that retains all the comfort.
Creamy Coconut: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist; perfect if you’re seeking a dairy-free experience.
Spice It Up: Toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to elevate your chowder’s heat level.
Herbs Galore: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley instead of thyme for a fresh garden flavor that brightens each bite.
Seafood Variation: Incorporate shrimp or scallops alongside the fish for a seafood medley that enhances the texture and flavor depths.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in a handful of shredded cheese—such as cheddar or a creamy Gouda—just before serving for a wonderfully cheesy chowder experience.

With these variations, you’ll keep your chowder fresh and exciting each time you make it, ensuring that there’s always something new and delightful in every bowl!

Storage Tips for Easy Fish Chowder

Fridge: Store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, adding even more depth!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chowder in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion to avoid rupturing the container.

Reheating: When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much. Avoid boiling to preserve the creamy texture.

Tip: Keep in mind that the chowder may thicken when cooled; stir well and adjust with a little extra broth when reheating your Easy Fish Chowder!

Easy Fish Chowder Recipe FAQs

What type of fish is best for this chowder?
A firm white fish, such as cod or haddock, works beautifully in this chowder. If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, salmon or halibut can also be great substitutes. The key is to choose a fish that holds its shape well while cooking.

How should I store leftovers from the chowder?
To keep your chowder fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find that the flavors actually deepen over time, making it even tastier when you revisit it!

Can I freeze the chowder?
Absolutely! You can freeze the chowder in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container because the chowder will expand as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What should I do if my chowder is too thick?
If you discover that your chowder is too thick after cooking or reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. Stir well over low heat until it’s beautifully smooth again, and avoid boiling to keep that luxurious texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this chowder?
Yes! This chowder can easily accommodate various dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and replace clams juice with vegetable broth. Additionally, be cautious with the use of heavy cream if anyone has dairy allergies; coconut milk can be a delightful alternative for those looking for a dairy-free option.

What are some common issues when making chowder?
One common issue is overcooking the fish; be sure to stir it in gently and monitor the cooking time, as thicker pieces may require a little extra time. Also, if your chowder tastes flat, try adjusting the seasoning gradually—sometimes a pinch of salt or more Old Bay can truly elevate the flavor!

This Easy Fish Chowder Recipe FAQs section is here to help you enjoy every comforting spoonful!