White Cheddar Apple Chicken

Featured in: Homemade Soups & Stews

This dish features tender shredded chicken blended with creamy white cheddar and tart apples, creating a harmonious balance of savory and sweet. White beans add texture and heartiness, while a blend of chili powder, cumin, and garlic bring warmth and depth. Simmered gently to meld flavors, it offers a comforting experience perfect for an easy, flavorful meal. Ideal for those seeking a low lactose, American-inspired dish packed with protein and bold tastes.

Updated on Sun, 23 Nov 2025 08:27:00 GMT
Steaming bowl of 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili, topped with extra shredded cheese and fresh apple. Save to Pinterest
Steaming bowl of 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili, topped with extra shredded cheese and fresh apple. | mellowspice.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.

This chili quickly became a weeknight favorite because of its simplicity and rich flavors.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken: shredded
  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans: drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup white cheddar cheese: shredded
  • 1 medium onion: chopped
  • 1 apple: preferably tart such as Granny Smith, diced
  • 1 cup chicken broth:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil:
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder:
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin:
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder:
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt:
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper:

Instructions

Step 1:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2:
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Step 3:
Stir in the diced apple and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.
Step 4:
Add the shredded chicken, drained white beans, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 5:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 6:
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 7:
Stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese until fully melted and the chili is creamy.
Step 8:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 9:
Serve hot. Top with extra cheddar, diced apples, or chopped cilantro if desired.
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| mellowspice.com

This chili always brings the family together on chilly evenings and is often served with warm crusty bread.

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 if sensitive to lactose or other allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 365 per serving. Total fat 14 g. Carbohydrates 28 g. Protein 31 g.

A close-up of delicious 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili, perfect for a cozy, quick weeknight dinner. Save to Pinterest
A close-up of delicious 35-Minute White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili, perfect for a cozy, quick weeknight dinner. | mellowspice.com

This chili is an easy way to impress family and friends with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, mild cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella can work, but white cheddar offers a distinctive creamy sharpness perfect for this dish.

What’s the best apple to use?

Tart apples such as Granny Smith provide a bright, crisp contrast that complements the savory elements well.

How can I make this spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or diced green chiles to taste for an extra kick without overpowering the flavors.

Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors deepen when refrigerated overnight. Reheat gently before serving to maintain texture.

Can I substitute canned beans with fresh ones?

Fresh cooked beans can be used, but make sure they’re tender and drained to blend smoothly with other ingredients.

White Cheddar Apple Chicken

A warm blend of shredded chicken, white cheddar, tart apples, and spices slow-simmered for rich flavor.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Created by Hannah Clarke

Recipe Category Homemade Soups & Stews

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Total Yield 4 Number of Servings

Dietary Details No Gluten

What You Need

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 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

How To Make

Step 01

Heat oil: Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Step 02

Sauté onion: Add chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and softened.

Step 03

Cook apple: Stir in diced apple and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 04

Combine main ingredients: Add shredded chicken, drained white beans, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to incorporate.

Step 05

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

Step 06

Simmer to blend flavors: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 07

Melt cheese: Stir in shredded white cheddar until fully melted, creating a creamy texture.

Step 08

Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and modify seasoning as desired. Serve warm, optionally garnishing with extra cheddar, diced apples, or chopped cilantro.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Details

Review all components for potential allergens and talk to your doctor with any questions.
  • Contains milk (cheddar cheese). May contain sulfites from broth. Verify ingredient labels if lactose or sulfite sensitive.

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutritional breakdown is for your information and isn't a substitute for health advice.
  • Total Calories: 365
  • Total Fat: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 31 g