Dinner

35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili Recipe

ByThomas Greene November 21, 2025November 21, 2025

Introduction

This 35-minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili is a comforting twist on classic chili, blending savory chicken and beans with the sweetness of apple and the richness of white cheddar. It’s a simple, hearty dish perfect for cozy dinners any night of the week.

A deep bowl filled with a thick stew shows three main layers visible from the top: the bottom layer is a light golden broth with specks of spices, the middle layer contains creamy white beans scattered unevenly across the stew’s surface, and the top layer is made up of shredded light brown chicken pieces dotted with small chunks of reddish-brown meat. The bowl is earthy green in color and sits on a wooden surface with sunlight softly illuminating the stew, highlighting the glossy textures and warm tones. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
1 apple, diced
1 can white beans, drained
1 cup chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp oil (for cooking)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Add chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in diced apple, shredded chicken, drained white beans, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook gently for 20 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 5: Stir in shredded white cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Serve the chili hot, with your choice of optional toppings like sour cream, green onions, or extra cheese.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, add a splash of half-and-half or sour cream just before serving.
Swap the apple for pear to add a different sweet note to the chili.
Use rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a spicier chili.

Storage

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the cheese from clumping.

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl filled with a thick soup placed on a white marbled textured surface. The soup contains visible chunks of shredded chicken, white beans, and small pieces of tomato, all mixed in a creamy, light orange broth with herbs and spices floating throughout. The shredded chicken sits mostly on top along with some beans, creating a layered look with the broth beneath. The lighting highlights the texture and warmth of the soup, emphasizing the tender chicken and plump beans. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with extra beans or cooked vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of apple works best for this chili?

Choose a firm apple with a balance of sweetness and tartness, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, to complement the savory flavors.