Make this rich, velvety corn chowder in one pot. It combines sweet corn, tender potatoes, and smoky bacon for a satisfying comfort food meal that is simple to prepare.
Cook the bacon pieces in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot with the bacon drippings. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, corn, salt, pepper, and thyme to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and cold water until smooth to create a slurry.
Slowly whisk the flour slurry into the simmering chowder. Continue to stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Heat through gently for about 5 minutes, but do not let the soup boil after adding the cream.
Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Ladle the thick and creamy soup into bowls. Top each serving with the reserved crispy bacon pieces.