This warm chicken chili mixes tasty white cheddar with sweet apples for a fun twist. It’s creamy, and you might just want to keep it all to yourself!
The blend of flavors is so good that I often find myself sneaking extra bites when nobody’s looking. Serve it with some bread for a cozy meal! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is great for this recipe as it cooks quickly. If you’re looking for an alternative, shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey works well. For a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or a meat substitute.
Apples: Granny Smith apples give a nice tartness, balancing the chili’s creaminess. If you want something sweeter, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are also excellent choices! You can even try pears for a unique twist.
White Cheddar Cheese: This adds a rich, creamy flavor. If you can’t find white cheddar, regular cheddar works! For a dairy-free version, look for plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking for something healthier. You can also skip it entirely for a lighter version or use coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right is key to your chili. Here’s how to ensure it’s tender and juicy:
- Start by cutting the chicken into uniform pieces; this helps cook evenly.
- Cook over medium heat until they’re lightly browned but not fully cooked—about 5-7 minutes. This means they’ll finish cooking in the simmering process.
- Stir occasionally to ensure all sides cook well. Letting it rest helps retain juices when added to the pot.
With this technique, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken that enhances the overall flavor of your chili! Enjoy! 🌟
White Cheddar & Apple Chicken Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. So, you’ll have a warm and comforting meal ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells delicious!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Cook them until they’re lightly browned on all sides, but don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick.
3. Add Apples and Spices:
Next, stir in the diced apples along with the cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors blend together.
4. Simmer with Broth and Beans:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and add the drained white beans. Bring everything to a simmer, which should get those tasty aromas wafting through your kitchen!
5. Let it Cook:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will give time for the chicken to cook through and the apples to soften.
6. Stir in Cheddar and Sour Cream:
Once it’s all cooked, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese and sour cream until everything is melted and creamy! If you want, taste the chili and add more salt or pepper as needed.
7. Serve It Up:
Serve your chili hot, topped with extra shredded cheddar and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro if you like. Enjoy your cozy, creamy, and slightly sweet chicken chili!
This chili is not only hearty but perfect for those chilly evenings in, offering a delightful twist on traditional flavors!
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Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breast works great, you can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker prep. If you prefer darker meat, boneless, skinless thighs will add extra flavor and tenderness!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like your chili spicier, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking. Alternatively, you can opt for a milder chili powder or skip it entirely for a more subtle flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or diced tofu for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The apples and cheese will still provide delicious flavors, creating a hearty vegetarian chili!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, and add a splash of broth or water if the chili thickens too much.