Hearty Chicken Corn Chowder with Crispy Bacon

Ingredients

- 6 servings +

• 6 slices thick-cut applewood bacon, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, for sautéing
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, to thicken roux
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken bone broth, rich and flavorful
• 1 ½ lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 3 cups sweet corn kernels, fresh or frozen
• 2 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, or half-and-half
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, minced
• ¼ cup fresh chives or green onions, chopped for garnish
• 1 tsp kosher salt and black pepper, to taste