Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of chowder, especially when it’s packed with rich, smoky, and creamy goodness. This Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder takes that cozy vibe to the next level with blackened salmon that adds a savory depth of flavor, all nestled in a luscious, creamy broth. Trust me, this dish will make your taste buds sing! Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or something special to serve at your next gathering, this chowder is exactly what you need.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether it’s a casual dinner or an occasion where you want to wow your guests, this dish fits the bill. Here’s why it’s going to be your new favorite:

Versatile: Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a cozy family dinner, or a group of friends, this chowder is perfect. It’s hearty, comforting, and pairs beautifully with just about anything. Plus, it’s a great dish to serve at a dinner party—you’ll be the talk of the evening!

Budget-Friendly: This dish is full of flavor without the hefty price tag. The ingredients are simple and likely already in your kitchen. It’s a great choice when you want to create something special on a budget.

Quick and Easy: With a few steps and a little love, you’ll have this chowder ready in no time. Even if you’re a beginner cook, this recipe is straightforward, so no stress here!

Customizable: Love a bit of heat? Add more cayenne pepper. Prefer it milder? You can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. It’s easy to make this chowder your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: This chowder is so delicious, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s creamy, flavorful, and just the right balance of everything you want in a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic behind this chowder—each ingredient contributes to its rich, savory flavor. Let’s break it down:

Salmon Fillets: The star of this dish, the salmon is seasoned and blackened to perfection, giving it a smoky, crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior. This adds depth and richness to the chowder.

Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps the salmon cook beautifully, keeping it moist while adding a touch of richness to the chowder.

Onions: Sweet and aromatic, onions form the base of the chowder’s flavor. They cook down and infuse the broth with a lovely savory essence.

Celery and Carrots: These veggies add both texture and natural sweetness to the chowder, balancing out the richness of the salmon and cream.

Garlic: Aromatic and full of flavor, garlic adds that savory depth that makes this chowder irresistible.

Heavy Cream: The key to creating a luxuriously creamy chowder, heavy cream makes the broth rich and silky, bringing everything together in a luscious, comforting bowl.

Potatoes: Potatoes are a classic chowder ingredient that adds heartiness and a nice bite to the dish. They soak up all the flavors of the broth, making every spoonful satisfying.

Chicken Broth: The base of the chowder, chicken broth adds richness and depth. It complements the cream perfectly and allows all the flavors to meld together.

Blackened Seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the salmon its smoky, spicy crust. It’s bold and flavorful, adding the perfect kick to the dish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make this delicious chowder? Let’s get started:

Preheat Your Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in some olive oil. This will help the salmon develop that crispy, blackened crust.

Blacken the Salmon: Season the salmon fillets generously with blackened seasoning. Place the fillets in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the salmon is crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Remove from the skillet and set aside to cool.

Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Add the Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Make It Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the chowder back to a simmer. Allow it to cook for another 5 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together and the chowder become rich and creamy.

Flake the Salmon: While the chowder simmers, use a fork to flake the blackened salmon into bite-sized pieces. Stir it into the chowder and let it heat through, absorbing all the flavors.

Final Touches: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you like it spicier, feel free to add a bit more blackened seasoning or cayenne pepper.

Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if you like, and serve hot. You’re ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy, savory goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder

This chowder is hearty and flavorful on its own, but here are some great sides and tips to make your meal even more special:

Fresh Salads: Pair the chowder with a crisp, refreshing salad. A tangy lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy chowder beautifully.

Crusty Bread: A loaf of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus, make for a great side dish to add some extra flavor and texture.

Cheese: A sprinkle of grated cheese, like Parmesan or cheddar, on top of your chowder adds an extra touch of richness.

Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme are a great way to garnish the dish, adding a pop of color and freshness that enhances the overall experience.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to make this chowder even better:

Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and salmon the night before to save time during the cooking process. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge.

Spice It Up: If you love heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.

Dietary Adjustments: For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk, and use a plant-based broth instead of chicken broth.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the creamy texture.

Double the Batch: This chowder freezes wonderfully! Make extra and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Just thaw and reheat when you’re craving a comforting meal.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the salmon with another type of fish?
A1: Yes, you can! Firm white fish like cod or halibut works well in this chowder. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q2: Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
A2: Yes, this chowder tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.

Q4: Can I freeze this chowder?
A4: Yes! You can freeze the chowder for up to 1 month. Just make sure it’s cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this chowder?
A5: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

Q6: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen ones?
A6: Absolutely! Fresh potatoes work perfectly. Just dice them into small cubes so they cook quickly.

Q7: Is this chowder gluten-free?
A7: Yes, this chowder is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your seasoning to make sure it’s gluten-free.

Q8: Can I make this chowder spicier?
A8: Yes, if you like heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or even some jalapeños to the chowder.

Q9: How can I make this chowder lighter?
A9: To make it lighter, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and use a lower-sodium broth.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes, absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled. Just make sure to use a larger pot for the chowder.

Conclusion

This Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder is everything you want in a comforting, flavorful meal. It’s hearty, creamy, and packed with delicious smoky salmon and savory veggies. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this chowder will quickly become a favorite. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort!

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