This easy and great-tasting clam chowder cooks in the crockpot in just 4 hours. Made with potatoes, milk, bacon (or salt pork), and canned minced clams, our thick and creamy recipe is satisfying and full of flavor. Clams are a great source of protein at a relatively low caloric cost, as 100 g has 150 calories but 25 grams of protein (one egg has 6 grams), plus several vitamins and minerals. We use bottled clam juice as the cooking liquid, but water or chicken stock may be used instead. If you use salted or low-sodium chicken broth, go easy on the salt, taste halfway and once the chowder is done add more if needed. This creamy soup is a great lunch or dinner on a cold day, and because it's made in the crockpot, it can be transported easily to potlucks. Serve with oyster crackers, saltines, or french bread.