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.
I first served this chili to my family on a chilly autumn evening and it quickly became a favorite for its perfect balance of flavors and comforting warmth.
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 saute 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 This recipe always brings my family together around the table, sharing stories and enjoying the comforting bowl on a crisp evening.
Notes
Substitute rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans before adding the cheese.
Required Tools
Large pot, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information
Calories: 365, Total Fat: 14 g, Carbohydrates: 28 g, Protein: 31 g per serving
Pin This chili is perfect for meal prep or a cozy night in and can be customized easily to suit your taste preferences.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of apples work best in this chili?
Tart apples like Granny Smith provide the best balance of sweet and tangy flavors to complement the savory elements.
- → How can I make this chili spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced green chiles during cooking for an extra spicy kick.
- → Is there a way to make the chili creamier?
Mash some of the white beans before adding cheese to enhance the creamy texture without altering flavor.
- → Can I substitute rotisserie chicken for shredded chicken?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken can save prep time while maintaining the dish’s rich flavors.
- → What spices contribute most to the flavor?
Chili powder and ground cumin add warmth and depth, while garlic powder and black pepper round out the seasoning.