Best Clam Chowder

Name: Best Clam Chowder
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 bacon strips (divided); 2 Tbsp. butter; 2 celery ribs (chopped); 1 leek (finely chopped (or 1 shallot)); 1 large onion (chopped); 2-3 garlic cloves (minced); 3-4 small unpeeled potatoes (red potatoes or Yukon gold) (cubed into 1/2-inch pieces (optional to peel)); 2 cups broth (chicken or vegetable); ½ teaspoon white pepper; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups half-and-half (divided); 3 cans 6-1/2 ounces each of chopped clams (undrained); Bay leaf; Chopped fresh chives or green onions (for garnish)