Name: White Cheddar & Apple Chicken Chili Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken; 2 15 oz cans cannellini beans (drained); 2 apples (peeled and roughly chopped); 1 white onion (peeled & roughly diced); 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp chili powder; 2 tsp ground cumin; salt & pepper (to taste); 4 tbsp butter; 1/4 cup flour; 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; 3/4 cup half & half; 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese

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Introduction

This White Cheddar & Apple Chicken Chili offers a creamy, comforting twist on traditional chili. The combination of tender chicken, sweet apples, and melted cheese creates a unique, flavorful dish perfect for cozy dinners.

A close-up of a ladle filled with a thick, creamy stew showing large chunks of orange sweet potatoes and smaller pieces of white beans, all coated with a rich, smooth, light orange sauce with visible seasoning bits. The ladle is held over a white pot filled with the same stew, and the edges of the pot have a red rim. In the background, there is a blurred bunch of green herbs and pieces of raw yellow sweet potato on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp chili powder
2 tsp ground cumin
2 apples (peeled and roughly chopped)
1 white onion (peeled and roughly diced)
4 tbsp butter
1/4 cup flour
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup half & half
2 15 oz cans cannellini beans (drained)
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
Salt & pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the apples and onion, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in the chili powder and cumin, and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples and onions are soft. Remove the mixture and set aside.
Step 2: Lower the heat to medium-low. Melt the butter in the pot, then whisk in the flour. Cook for about 60 seconds to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step 3: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, adding a little at a time to keep the mixture smooth. Next, whisk in the half & half. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the chopped chicken, drained cannellini beans, and the reserved apple and onion mixture until well combined.
Step 5: If the chili is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
Step 6: Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, or tortilla chips.

Tips & Variations

Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast or sweeter varieties like Fuji for a milder flavor.
Substitute shredded cooked turkey or leftover roasted chicken for variety.
Add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky depth.
For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of half & half and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

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. You can add a splash of broth or water if the chili thickens too much upon cooling.

How to Serve

Two white pots filled with thick stew that has a creamy orange sauce with chunks of light brown beans and soft orange sweet potatoes, topped with thin strips of yellow cheddar cheese and small green parsley leaves scattered on top. The pots are set on a white marbled surface with a blue and white striped cloth underneath, and in the background, a piece of golden cornbread and a green apple cut in half are partially visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes, this chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it ahead and refrigerate overnight before reheating.

Can I freeze White Cheddar & Apple Chicken Chili?

Yes, you can freeze this chili for up to 2 months. However, the cream and cheese may slightly separate upon thawing, so reheat gently and stir well to recombine.