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Savory White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili

white cheddar apple chicken chili - featured image
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A cozy and comforting chili featuring tender chicken, sharp white cheddar, and crisp apples in a creamy, cheesy broth with a subtle smoky and sweet flavor twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, sour cream, tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Dice chicken into 1-inch pieces. Peel and dice the apples into similar-sized chunks. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Shred the white cheddar cheese and rinse the cannellini beans.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent and soft, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Stir often to keep even color and prevent sticking.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Toss the diced apples into the pot and stir to combine.
  5. Add the chicken broth and cannellini beans. Increase heat to bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Gradually stir in the shredded white cheddar, letting it melt fully into the chili. If the chili feels too thick, add a splash more broth or water.
  7. Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Optionally, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.
  8. Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or tortilla chips if desired.

Notes

Use freshly shredded white cheddar cheese for smooth melting and creamy texture. Avoid overcooking apples to keep a tender but firm bite. Stir cheese in slowly and gently to prevent clumping. If chili thickens too much after refrigeration, add broth or water when reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: white cheddar chili, chicken chili, apple chili, comfort food, cozy dinner, creamy chili, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/savory-white-cheddar-apple-chicken-chili-recipe-for-cozy-comfort-nights/