White Cheddar Apple Chili

Featured in: Family Comfort Classics

This dish combines tender shredded chicken with creamy white cheddar and a touch of tart apples for a comforting chili experience. White beans add texture and body, while chili powder and cumin create a warming spice profile. The ingredients simmer together until flavors blend, resulting in a creamy, hearty meal perfect for an easy dinner.

Onions and apples gently sauté to enhance sweetness before mixing with seasoned chicken and beans. Melting the cheese at the end enriches the texture and adds a smooth finish. Adjust seasoning to taste and garnish with extra cheddar or fresh herbs for added color and flavor.

Updated on Sun, 23 Nov 2025 12:57:00 GMT
Steaming white cheddar apple chicken chili topped with extra cheddar and diced green apples. Save to Pinterest
Steaming white cheddar apple chicken chili topped with extra cheddar and diced green apples. | recipesforevers.com

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
  • 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.
A close-up view of a bowl of the savory 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili. Save to Pinterest
A close-up view of a bowl of the savory 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili. | recipesforevers.com

Warm, creamy 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili in a bowl, perfect for a cozy supper. Save to Pinterest
Warm, creamy 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili in a bowl, perfect for a cozy supper. | recipesforevers.com

Recipe FAQs

What type of apples work best?

Tart apples like Granny Smith add a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors and hold their texture well during cooking.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken can speed up preparation while still providing tender, flavorful meat.

How do I make it spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or diced green chiles to increase heat without overpowering the other flavors.

What texture do the white beans add?

White beans contribute a creamy texture and mild flavor that balances the sharpness of the cheddar and spices.

How should I adjust seasoning after cooking?

Taste and add salt, pepper, or extra chili powder as needed to enhance the depth of flavor.

White Cheddar Apple Chili

Savory chicken chili with white cheddar, apples, and white beans delivering creamy, flavorful warmth in every bite.

Prep Duration
10 minutes
Time to Cook
25 minutes
Complete Duration
35 minutes


Complexity Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary Info Without Gluten

What You Need

Proteins

01 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
02 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed

Dairy

01 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded

Vegetables & Fruit

01 1 medium onion, chopped
02 1 medium tart apple (such as Granny Smith), diced

Broth & Liquids

01 1 cup chicken broth
02 1 tablespoon olive oil

Spices & Seasonings

01 1 teaspoon chili powder
02 1 teaspoon ground cumin
03 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 01

Heat oil: Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 02

Sauté onion: Add chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 03

Cook apple: Stir in diced apple and cook for an additional 2 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 04

Combine proteins and spices: Add shredded chicken, drained white beans, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine.

Step 05

Simmer mixture: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 06

Cook covered: Lower heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 07

Melt cheese: Stir in shredded white cheddar cheese until fully melted and the dish is creamy.

Step 08

Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 09

Serve: Serve hot, optionally topped with extra cheddar, diced apples, or chopped cilantro.

Essential Tools

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Details

Be sure to check every item for allergens. If uncertain, talk with a healthcare provider.
  • Contains milk from cheddar cheese
  • May contain sulfites from some broth brands

Nutrition per serving

Nutrition details are for your reference only. Always speak with a professional for medical concerns.
  • Caloric Content: 365
  • Total Fat: 14 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams
  • Proteins: 31 grams