This White Cheddar & Apple Chicken Chili combines tender chicken, sweet apples, and creamy white cheddar for a warm hug in a bowl. It’s tasty and perfect for chilly days!
Every spoonful feels like a cozy blanket, and the sweet hint from the apples is a fun twist. I like to top mine with crispy tortilla chips—so good you’ll want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love boneless, skinless thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just as well if you prefer them. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken for a protein boost.
Apples: Granny Smith apples bring a tart kick, while Honeycrisp is perfect for sweetness. If you’re out of apples, pears are a tasty substitute that will still add a nice sweetness to the dish.
White Beans: I usually go for cannellini beans, but Great Northern or even navy beans are great choices. If you need a low-carb option, you could use cauliflower instead.
White Cheddar: A sharp white cheddar gives this chili a rich flavor. If you can’t find it, a mild white cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack will work, but the flavor will be a bit different.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Flavor Balance?
Getting the flavors just right takes a few careful steps. Here’s how to enhance your chili:
- Start by sautéing the onions until they’re soft. This releases their sweetness.
- Don’t rush the chicken! Cook it until it’s just cooked through, ensuring that it stays moist.
- Add spices like cumin and smoked paprika early. This allows them to bloom and fill your chili with depth.
- Cooking the apples in the chili helps them soften and blend with the savory flavors, enhancing both sweetness and acidity.
- Lastly, stir in the white cheddar off heat for a creamy finish without it clumping or getting grainy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a chili that’s bursting with flavor and comfort!
White Cheddar & Apple Chicken Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
- 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 oz white cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of around 40 minutes. You’ll be enjoying a delicious pot of chili in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside. This step seals in the juices!
3. Add Apples and Beans:
Next, stir in the diced apples, white beans, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring this delightful mixture to a boil. The aromas will start to fill your kitchen!
4. Let It Simmer:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully while the chicken cooks through.
5. Finish with Cheese:
After the chili has simmered, remove the pot from heat. Slowly stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese until it melts and combines smoothly into the chili, creating a creamy texture that’s oh-so-delicious!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Serve the warm chili hot, garnished with more shredded white cheddar and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy this unique blend of savory chicken, sweet apples, and creamy white cheddar in a comforting bowl of chili!
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Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs stay juicy, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. If you want a vegetarian version, try using tofu or chickpeas for protein instead.
How Do I Thicken the Chili?
If you like a thicker chili, you can mash some of the white beans with a fork before adding them, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the simmering step.
Can I Make This Chili in Advance?
Yes, this chili can be made ahead of time! Prepare it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
What Should I Serve with This Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. You can also serve it with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast!