Wendy’s Chili Recipe Copycat Chili

And to those of you who have ever felt better after having a nice hot bowl of Wendy’s signature chili, you are not alone. It is a warm and tasty meal that happens to be among the most popular menu items in the famous fast-food restaurant. 

Our Wendy’s Chili Recipe Copycat Chili brings the same savory-goodness to your kitchen using pantry staples, ground beef, and a slow-simmered method that’s full of flavor. 

It could be game day, a cold evening, or maybe you simply have the urge to have something good. This homemade recipe is simple, cost-effective, and straight-out delicious.

What Is Wendy’s Chili?

Wendy’s chili is a well-balanced beef and bean chili that is mildly spiced, chunky, and rich in tomato base. It has ground beef, red and pinto beans, green chile, and a mild combination of seasonings that all come together to create a bowl of comfort goodness. 

Whereas other chilis can be too hot, the one served at Wendy’s is mild enough to be called a family chili and can be used as a topping, side, or main dish.

The First time that I tried Wendy’s Chili

I recall once on the road ordering Wendy’s chili. I was so fed up with fries and burgers that I decided to have a nice, welcoming cup of chili. I was surprised by how hearty and full of flavor that initial bite was, with simply enough spice to make it interesting. 

I tried to do the same thing at home years later. With about three trial versions, I had developed a recipe that was almost identical to the original, even my friends who are addicted to fast food were amazed. 

It has become a regular in our home in the colder weather or when we need a comfort meal that takes us back to our childhood.

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (80/20 preferred)

1 small onion, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

3 stalks celery, diced

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies

2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon oregano

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

1 cup water or beef broth

Instructions For Wendy’s Chili Recipe Copycat Chili

1. Saute Beef

Brown ground beef in a large pot or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it is completely cooked. Discard unnecessary fat and put the beef back in the pot.

2. Sautee Aromatics

Add to the beef, diced onion, green pepper, and celery. Stirring occasionally, cook 4 -5 minutes, until vegetables start to soften.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Beans

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes with green chilies, stirring to combine. Include the drained kidney and pinto beans.

4. Season the Chili and serve

Add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, oregano, and cayenne (optional). Mix all together until well incorporated.

5. Simmer Slowly

Add the water or beef broth. Gently boil the mixture and afterward lower the heat to a simmer. The cover on and simmer 60-90 minutes, stirring every so often to avoid sticking.

6. Flavor and Correct

Once simmered, taste the chili and add seasoning, if necessary. Use additional chili powder or salt to taste.

7. Serve

Hot serve with shredded cheddar on top or chopped green onions, or a spoonful of sour cream on top. It goes marvelously with cornbread or crackers.

Why You Will Love This Copycat Recipe

Tastes Just Like the Original – Without the drive-thru!

Thick and Hearty – Meat, beans and vegetables galore

Affordable- Budget pantry ingredients

Heat Level –Customize the heat to your family

Great with Leftovers- Even better the next day

Pro Tips

1. To add more flavor, use beef broth instead of water.

2. Make a double batch and freeze half; chili freezes wonderfully.

3. There is no need to omit the simmering step; it is necessary to combine the flavors and to thicken the chili.

4. Ground turkey is a lighter alternative; try it.

Variations

Spicy Chili: To make it spicier, use chipotle powder or jalapeños.

Vegetarian: Replace beef with additional beans or a meat analog.

Cheesy Chili Bake: Place leftovers in a dish, cover with cheese, and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Wendy’s Chili Copycat Recipe will fill your home with comfort and nostalgia, coupled with classic taste. It is simple, cheap, and serves a huge batch that is suitable to feed a family, pre-make meals, or freeze. When you are in the mood to have some fast-food classics or just a hearty meal during winter, this chili will become a staple in your recipe book.

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