Wendy’s Chili Copycat

You are going to love this simple and easy-to-make Wendy’s chili recipe. It’s the best recipe out there and will quickly become your go-to chili recipe.

There's a certain satisfaction in recreating restaurant favorites at home, especially when it comes to classics like Wendy's chili. With this recipe, you can capture the comforting flavors of a beloved dish right in your own kitchen. By using simple, pantry-friendly ingredients and following these easy steps, you'll have a delicious pot of chili simmering on the stove in no time. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering or simply craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening, this Wendy's-inspired chili is sure to hit the spot!

Vadim Rachok

Chef

Wendy’s  Chili Recipe:

We are always on the lookout for different soup and chili recipes, and this Wendy’s chili recipe hit the spot when we were craving chili on a chilly day.

I enjoy recreating restaurant-style dishes with simple ingredients. Chili is an easy dish to make.

Is it really a “top secret” recipe?

It may seem like the recipes of restaurant dishes are closely guarded secrets, but in reality, many of them can be replicated. For example, when I tried the chili at Wendy’s, I immediately knew how to recreate it at home and even improve upon it.

I wish the taste of the chili could be improved. But don’t worry. The ingredients listed below may look intimidating, but most of the spices are already in your pantry. So, it would be easy to buy the remaining ingredients needed to make this chili.

Ingredients:

• Ground Beef – Brown and drain your ground beef. I usually try and use a lower fat content for ground beef. If you want, you can use ground turkey and mix it with the other ingredients.
• Pinto Beans – You can also use chili beans or ranch-style beans. We do not drain.
• Kidney Beans – Light or dark kidney beans. We do not drain these beans.
• Celery – Chopped
• Green Bell Pepper – Chopped
• Worcestershire Sauce
• Tomato Sauce – Use regular tomato sauce. I have also added in some tomato juice.
• Diced Tomatoes – You can purchase a can of diced tomatoes, but I typically opt for a can with diced green chilis.
• Chili Powder
• Cumin – If you are out, check out Best Substitute for Cumin.
• Salt and pepper
• Cheddar Cheese (for serving)
• Saltine Crackers (for serving)

How to make Wendy’s Chili Recipe

• Brown the ground beef in a large stock pot until it is no longer pink. Add celery and bell pepper halfway through cooking and cook until tender. Drain any excess grease.

• Add all chili seasoning ingredients except cheese and crackers. Stir.

• Combine all ingredients in a pot, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 30 minutes to blend flavors.

• Serve the dish by adding the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Serve it with crackers, and enjoy!

Variation Ideas:

My mother always made the best chili, and I have been trying to figure out her secret ingredient. These are some of the variations I have attempted:

• Kidney Beans – I usually tend to use light kidney beans but have also used dark kidney beans.

• Pinto Beans – Instead of using pinto beans, you can use chili beans as a substitute.

• Cayenne Pepper – For a little extra spice, mix in some cayenne pepper with your chili. We usually add a small amount to ensure the kids still enjoy it.

• Add some bacon – Everything is better with some bacon. Mix in some cooked bacon for a heartier chili with crispy bacon bits.

• Vegetables – Do you have any vegetables that need to be cooked? Add them to this chili to change its texture and make it healthier.

What to serve with Wendy’s Chili

Chili is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with some tasty sides. Here are a few of our favorites to enjoy with your chili.

• Saltine Crackers
• Slice Cheese
• Frito’s
• Cornbread

Chili Topping Ideas:

We love serving chili during game day parties or get-togethers with friends. This is my go-to recipe as it always satisfies everyone’s craving for chili.

We set up a chili bar with a variety of toppings to choose from.

• Slice Jalapeños
• Diced Onions
• Shredded Cheese
• Sour Cream
• Hot Sauce
• Tortilla Strips
• Avocado

How to use leftover chili

We intentionally make a double batch of chili to have leftovers for lunch.

I think chili tastes even better the day after it’s made. This allows all of the spices to marinate together.

Here are some creative ways to use leftover chili.

• Have you ever tried making a Frito Chili Wrap? This is one of my favorite ways to enjoy leftover chili. All you need is a tortilla, a serving of chili, Frito’s, and cheese. Simply spoon the chili onto the tortilla, sprinkle Frito’s and cheese on top, and wrap it up. It’s a great option for a snack or lunch!

• Top your plain baked potato with chili, cheese, and sour cream for a delicious dinner idea.

• We enjoy serving chili in bread bowls as the chili mixes well with the bread.

• Do you have any leftover pasta? Why not mix it with chili to create a delicious chili mac dinner?

• Having chili dogs for dinner is a great and easy idea that my kids love.

How to store Wendy’s Chili?

Chili can be easily stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Once it has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

If you want to freeze chili, put it in a freezer-safe container and freeze it. We prefer freezing individual servings for quick lunches.

Leftover chili saves me time and money, providing a nutritious lunch instead of fast food.