wendy’s slow cooker chili recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
wendy's slow cooker chili recipe
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The Best wendy’s slow cooker chili recipe

I’ve been making Wendy’s slow cooker chili recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish originated from the popular fast-food chain Wendy’s, but I’ve modified it to be more suitable for home cooking.

The slow cooker version is perfect for busy days when I need to prepare a meal ahead of time. It’s also great for game days, potlucks, or any occasion when you need a hearty, comforting meal.

The recipe uses a combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and beans to create a rich and flavorful broth. I love how the flavors meld together as the chili simmers in the slow cooker all day.

My kids love it because it’s easy to serve with some crusty bread or over rice. The best part is that it’s relatively healthy compared to other chili recipes.

With its high protein content and low fat, this recipe makes for a great weeknight dinner option. Plus, it freezes beautifully so I can make a large batch and store it for later use.

Wendy's Slow Cooker Chili

Wendy’s Slow Cooker Chili

4.8 from 1167 votes

A hearty and flavorful copycat chili that mimics the taste of Wendy’s classic. This slow cooker version is easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time6 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hours 15 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chili

2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 (4 ounce) can diced green chiles
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup beef broth

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink, about 8 to 10 minutes.
2Drain off any excess fat from the skillet.
3Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
4Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker.
5Add the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained kidney beans, drained pinto beans, diced green chiles, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and beef broth.
6Stir all ingredients together in the slow cooker until well combined.
7Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the chili is thickened and the flavors have melded.
8Taste the chili and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
9Serve hot with desired toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Slow cooker (6 quart or larger)
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Can opener
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a thicker chili, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the slow cooker before serving. This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can also add a tablespoon of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.

Watch Video Of How Wendy’s Slow Cooker Chili Works

This Wendy’s slow cooker chili recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is easy to make and feeds a crowd.

I often make a double batch and store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, reheating individual portions in the microwave for quick lunches.

For serving, I like to top it with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some chopped green onions, and it is perfect for family dinners or game day parties where everyone can help themselves.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Wendy’s Slow Cooker Chili

Q: Can I store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer?

You can store leftovers in both the refrigerator and freezer.

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