Pin 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.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Proteins
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed: Proteins
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded: Dairy
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Vegetables & Fruit
- 1 apple (preferably tart, such as Granny Smith), diced: Vegetables & Fruit
- 1 cup chicken broth: Broth & Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Broth & Liquids
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Spices & Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Spices & Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Spices & Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Spices & Seasonings
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.
Pin 
Pin Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella can provide a mild creaminess, though white cheddar adds a distinct sharpness and richness.
- → Which apples work best for this dish?
Tart apples such as Granny Smith offer a wonderful contrast to the savory elements, balancing the flavors nicely.
- → How should the beans be prepared?
Drain and rinse canned white beans before adding to keep the chili creamy and avoid excess saltiness.
- → Can this chili be made spicier?
Yes, adding cayenne pepper or diced green chiles can enhance the heat to your preference.
- → Is shredding the chicken necessary?
Shredding allows the chicken to blend seamlessly with the beans and cheese, ensuring consistent texture and flavor throughout.
- → What cooking tools are required?
A large pot, wooden spoon or spatula, chef's knife, cutting board, and measuring tools will make preparation easier.