Apple Chicken Chili is a warm and comforting dish perfect for cozy fall dinners. This delightful recipe combines sweet apples, tender chicken, and hearty beans, creating a unique twist on traditional chili. The blend of flavors not only warms the soul but also pleases even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, meal prep options, or a dish to impress guests during fall gatherings, this Apple Chicken Chili fits the bill. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Chicken Chili

This Apple Chicken Chili Recipe is packed with benefits that make it a standout dish:

It’s a unique and flavorful combination of sweet and savory.
Full of wholesome ingredients, it’s a Healthy Apple Chicken Chili.
Easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
Great for meal prep; freeze leftovers for later.
Can be made as a Slow Cooker Apple Chicken Chili for convenience.
Rich in protein and fiber, making it a filling option.
Perfect for fall gatherings or family dinners.
Offers a delightful twist on traditional chili with apples.

Ingredients for Apple Chicken Chili

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced (about 150g)
1 large carrot, peeled and chopped (about 100g)
1 rib celery, chopped (about 75g)
1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 150g)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 (15 oz / 425g) cans Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
1 (4 oz / 113g) can diced green chiles
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups (475ml) low-sodium chicken broth
Optional: shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley for garnish

How to Make Apple Chicken Chili Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
Step 2: Stir in the chopped apple and minced garlic. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the apple to soften slightly and the garlic to become fragrant.
Step 3: Nestle the chicken breasts into the vegetable mixture. Add the beans, diced green chiles, cumin, oregano, chili powder, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 5: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the chili and stir to combine.
Step 6: Simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. For a thicker chili, blend about 1 cup of the chili with an immersion blender and stir it back in.
Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Step 8: For a Slow Cooker Apple Chicken Chili, add all ingredients (except toppings) to a slow cooker.
Step 9: Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, then shred the chicken and return it to the pot before serving.

Irresistible Apple Chicken Chili: A Cozy Fall Favorite - Apple Chicken Chili - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Chicken Chili

Keep these in mind:

Granny Smith apples add tartness; Honeycrisp or Fuji add sweetness.
Great Northern beans are mild; cannellini or navy beans can also be used.
Add extra chili powder or smoked paprika for more heat.
Boneless thighs can be a juicier option; cooked chicken can be stirred in at the end.
Try toppings like shredded cheddar, green onions, or Greek yogurt.
For an Easy Apple Chicken Chili, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Chicken Chili

There are many delicious ways to enjoy this dish:

Serve it hot with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley.
Pair it with cornbread for a comforting meal.
Top with avocado slices or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Chicken Chili

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a pot over medium heat until warmed through. For meal prep, this chili can be frozen in individual portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Chicken Chili

What is the secret to perfect Apple Chicken Chili?

The secret lies in balancing the sweetness of the apples with the savory flavors of the spices. Using a mix of beans also enhances the texture and flavor profile of the chili.

Can I make Apple Chicken Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors meld overnight, which only enhances its taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Chicken Chili?

Ensure not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Also, adjust your seasoning as needed; taste while cooking to get the balance just right.

Variations of Apple Chicken Chili You Can Try

Here are some fun twists to explore:

Make a Spicy Apple Chicken Chili by adding jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Try using different beans like black beans or lentils for a unique flavor.
For a Healthy Apple Chicken Chili, reduce the amount of oil or use skinless chicken thighs.
Experiment with seasonal spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to give an autumnal flair.

For more tips on cooking with apples, check out this article. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit this resource. Lastly, for a deeper dive into healthy eating, see this guide.