🍲 Wendy’s Chili (Copycat Recipe) – Don’t LOSE This Flavor-Packed Favorite!

There’s something comforting and iconic about a warm bowl of Wendy’s Chili. Thick, hearty, and loaded with perfectly seasoned ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, this copycat recipe captures the rich, slow-simmered flavor of the fast-food favorite — but made fresh right in your own kitchen!

📝 Ingredients

1 medium-large onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/4 cup chili powder (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup diced celery
1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained
1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained
1 quart tomato juice
2 pounds fresh ground beef
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 (29-ounce) can tomato purée
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt

👨‍🍳 Instructions

Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until fully browned. Drain off any excess fat.
Transfer to pot: Move the cooked beef into a large 6-quart stockpot or Dutch oven.
Add remaining ingredients: Stir in tomato juice, tomato purée, both types of beans, chopped onion, celery, green bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, sugar, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine flavors.
Simmer: Cover the pot and bring the chili to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
Slow simmer: Simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking and deepen the flavor.
Optional slow cooker version: Combine all ingredients into your slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours.
Serve hot: Ladle into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings.

🍽️ Topping Ideas

Shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh diced onions
Crackers or cornbread
Hot sauce or jalapeño slices for extra heat
Sour cream or chopped green onions

📊 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sodium: 750mg
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 6g

❄️ Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Chili freezes beautifully! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

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❤️ Final Thoughts

Now you can enjoy that famous fast-food chili flavor right from your own kitchen! This Wendy’s Chili Copycat Recipe is loaded with hearty beans, tender beef, and the perfect balance of spice. Perfect for meal prepping, freezing, or feeding a crowd — and don’t forget the toppings! 😋🔥