White Cheddar Apple Chili

Featured in: Cozy Everyday Meals

This hearty chili combines tender chicken with creamy white cheddar and the subtle sweetness of tart apples. White beans add a smooth texture while chili powder and cumin give a balanced, warm spice. Onions and garlic enhance the savory base, cooked gently to meld flavors. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for a comforting meal with a unique sweet-savory twist. Garnish with extra cheddar or fresh cilantro for added depth and freshness.

Updated on Sun, 23 Nov 2025 16:54:00 GMT
Steaming bowl of 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili, topped with extra shredded cheese and fresh apple. Save
Steaming bowl of 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili, topped with extra shredded cheese and fresh apple. | meanwhilerecipe.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.

I first served this chili and was amazed at how perfectly the creamy white cheddar and tart apples worked together with the chicken and beans.

Ingredients

  • Cooked chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
  • White beans: 1 can (15 oz) white beans drained and rinsed
  • White cheddar cheese: 1 cup shredded
  • Onion: 1 medium chopped
  • Apple: 1 (preferably tart such as Granny Smith) diced
  • Chicken broth: 1 cup
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat:
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 34 minutes until softened and translucent:
Stir in the diced apple and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened:
Add the shredded chicken drained white beans chili powder cumin garlic powder salt and black pepper:
Stir to combine.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer:
Reduce heat to low cover and simmer for 1520 minutes to allow flavors to meld:
Stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese until fully melted and the chili is creamy:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed:
Serve hot:
Top with extra cheddar diced apples or chopped cilantro if desired.
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This recipe has become a family favorite especially during cold months when everyone gathers around the dinner table.

Required Tools

Large pot Wooden spoon or spatula Chefs knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Information

Contains Milk (cheddar cheese) May contain Sulfites (in some broths) Double-check labels for dairy and broth if sensitive to lactose or other allergens

Nutritional Information

Calories 365 Total Fat 14 g Carbohydrates 28 g Protein 31 g

A close-up of a warm, savory bowl of 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili, ready to enjoy. Save
A close-up of a warm, savory bowl of 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili, ready to enjoy. | meanwhilerecipe.com

This chili comes together quickly and always impresses guests with its rich and comforting flavors.

Recipe FAQ

What type of apples work best?

Tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice contrast and complement the savory ingredients well.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds rich flavor while saving prep time.

How can I make the chili spicier?

Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced green chiles will increase the heat without overpowering the flavors.

What is the best way to create a creamy texture?

Mashing some of the white beans before adding cheese helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

What cooking tools are needed?

A large pot, wooden spoon or spatula, chef’s knife, cutting board, and measuring cups and spoons are essential.

White Cheddar Apple Chili

A hearty chili featuring tender chicken, white cheddar, apples, and white beans in a creamy, flavorful blend.

Time to Prepare
10 mins
Time to Cook
25 mins
Complete Time
35 mins
Created by Meanwhilerecipe Clara Bennett

Recipe Category Cozy Everyday Meals

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Makes 4 Number of Servings

Diet Considerations No Gluten

Ingredient List

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

Steps

Step 01

Heat olive oil: Heat 1 tablespoon 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 chicken, beans, and spices: Add shredded chicken, drained white beans, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine.

Step 05

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

Step 06

Simmer covered: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 07

Incorporate cheese: Stir in shredded white cheddar cheese until fully melted and the chili achieves a creamy consistency.

Step 08

Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Step 09

Serve: Ladle chili into bowls and serve hot. Optionally top with extra cheddar cheese, diced apples, or chopped cilantro.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Notes

Examine all food items for allergens and consult your doctor for concerns.
  • Contains milk (cheddar cheese)
  • May contain sulfites (some broths)

Nutrition Info (per portion)

These details are meant for reference, not as a substitute for medical guidance.
  • Energy (Calories): 365
  • Fats: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 31 g