Pin It A hearty, comforting chili featuring tender chicken, creamy white cheddar, sweet apples, and white beans—a unique blend of savory and subtly sweet flavors that will have you coming back for more.
I first served this comforting chili to my family on a chilly fall evening, and it quickly became a favorite for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken: shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans: drained and rinsed
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese: shredded
- 1 medium onion: chopped
- 1 apple (preferably tart, such as Granny Smith): diced
- 1 cup chicken broth:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt:
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper:
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Step 2:
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Step 3:
- Stir in the diced apple and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.
- Step 4:
- Add the shredded chicken, drained white beans, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Step 5:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Step 6:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Step 7:
- Stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese until fully melted and the chili is creamy.
- Step 8:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 9:
- Serve hot. Top with extra cheddar, diced apples, or chopped cilantro if desired.
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Making this chili is always a fun weekend activity with my family where everyone helps with chopping or stirring while sharing stories.
Required Tools
Large pot Wooden spoon or spatula Chefs knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheddar cheese) May contain Sulfites (in some broths) Double-check labels for dairy and broth if sensitive to lactose or other allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 365 Total Fat: 14 g Carbohydrates: 28 g Protein: 31 g per serving
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This chili is perfect for cozy nights and leftovers reheat beautifully for next-day meals.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of apples work best in this dish?
Tart apples like Granny Smith provide a refreshing contrast that complements the savory elements well.
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken as a shortcut?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver without compromising flavor.
- → How can I adjust the spiciness?
Add cayenne pepper or diced green chiles to increase heat to your preference.
- → What is the purpose of melting white cheddar into the chili?
Melting white cheddar creates a creamy texture and rich flavor that ties all ingredients together.
- → Is it necessary to drain and rinse the white beans?
Draining and rinsing helps reduce excess sodium and improves the overall texture when added to the dish.