wendys chili copycat recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
wendys chili copycat recipe
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The Best wendys chili copycat recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Wendy’s chili copycat recipe. This recipe has been a staple in my household for years, and my family just can’t get enough of it. I’ve tried many different chili recipes over the years, but this one is hands down the best. It’s easy to make, delicious, and packed with nutrients.

The best part? It’s incredibly customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you like it mild or hot, this recipe can be adjusted to your liking. I’ve served it at family gatherings, potlucks, and even just a regular weeknight dinner.

It’s always a crowd-pleaser! The secret ingredient? A blend of ground beef and pork that gives it a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. And don’t even get me started on the texture – it’s thick and hearty, just like a good chili should be.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, and each time it turns out perfectly. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always eager to lend a hand (or taste-test) whenever I’m cooking up a batch. In fact, my youngest son has declared himself the official ‘Chili Taste-Tester’ in our household! As for me?

I just love how comforting and satisfying this meal is. There’s something about the combination of flavors that just feels like home. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – with lean ground beef, plenty of veggies, and a boost of protein from the beans, this dish is a nutritious choice for any mealtime occasion.

Wendy's Chili Copycat Recipe

Wendy’s Chili Copycat Recipe

4.6 from 1065 votes

This hearty and flavorful chili mimics the iconic fast-food version with ground beef, kidney beans, and a rich tomato base. It is perfect for a comforting meal and comes together quickly in one pot.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chili

2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
1 large yellow onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and black pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes.
3Drain off excess fat if desired.
4Add the diced onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the pot.
5Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 4 to 5 minutes.
6Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper over the meat mixture.
8Stir well and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices, which deepens their flavor.
9Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar.
10Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
11Add the drained kidney beans and pinto beans.
12Bring the chili to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld.
13Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

🔧Equipment

Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Can opener

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 28g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before adding them. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, and oyster crackers for a classic finish. Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Watch Video Of How Wendy’s Chili Copycat Recipe Works

This Wendy’s chili copycat recipe is truly a staple in our household – easy to make, customizable to your taste preferences, and packed with nutrients.

Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just need a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters (my kids included!)

With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it’s no wonder why we come back to this recipe again and again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Wendy’s Chili Copycat

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

A: Yes! Ground turkey works beautifully in place of beef if you prefer a leaner option.

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