Description
A comforting and flavorful White Cheddar Apple Chili combining tender shredded chicken, creamy white beans, tart apples, and melted white cheddar cheese. This hearty chili features a gentle spice blend with chili powder and cumin, balanced by the sweet-tart apple and creamy cheese, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Beans
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
Vegetables and Fruit
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tart apple (e.g. Granny Smith), diced
Liquids and Oils
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to get ready for sautéing the onion, which forms the flavor base of the chili.
- Sauté onion: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness and aroma.
- Cook apple: Add the diced tart apple to the pot and sauté for 2 minutes until it becomes slightly tender, adding a subtle sweet and tart flavor to the chili.
- Combine main ingredients and spices: Add the shredded chicken, white beans, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute all flavors.
- Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Finish with cheese: Stir the shredded white cheddar cheese into the chili until it melts completely, creating a creamy and rich texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with extra shredded cheddar, diced apples, or chopped cilantro for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use a tart apple like Granny Smith for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Shredded chicken can be substituted with cooked turkey for variation.
- For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered during the last 5 minutes to reduce liquid.
- Adjust chili powder and cumin to taste for preferred spice level.
- This chili pairs well with crusty bread or tortilla chips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Chili & Stews
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: white cheddar, apple chili, shredded chicken chili, white beans, easy chili recipe, stovetop chili, creamy chili
