Spicy Corn Chowder with Chicken

Ingredients

• 12 slices bacon, sliced in 1-inch strips
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
• 1 potato, diced
• 1 small red pepper , diced
• 1 rib celery, sliced 
• 3 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
• salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon old bay seasoning (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
• 2 cups milk
• 3 cups chicken broth 
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken

Garnish

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 small green onions, sliced thin
• reserved bacon
• 
  
• Directions

In a large saucepot over medium heat cook bacon until crispy and all fat has rendered out. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel lined plate for later. Drain off all but 1 tablespoon fat, add onion, jalapeno, potato, red pepper, corn, celery, salt and pepper, old bay seasoning and saute for about 5 minutes. Add thyme.

In a blender, puree half the mixture and add back to the pan. Add milk, chicken broth, and chicken and let simmer for about 5 minutes.

Add to serving bowls and garnish with bacon, cheddar cheese and green onions.