Copycat Wendy’s Chili

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This Copycat Wendy’s Chili delivers the comforting, slow-simmered flavor you know and love from the drive-thru classic—all from the comfort of your own kitchen. Packed with tender ground beef, a blend of beans, and rich tomato broth seasoned just right, this recipe is hearty, bold, and ridiculously easy to whip up.

Perfect for chilly days, game nights, or quick meal prep, this homemade version is even better than the original. Customize it to your heat preference, pile on the cheddar, and serve with a side of saltines or cornbread. One pot, tons of flavor.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For a richer flavor, go with 80/20 ground beef. The fat content adds flavor and keeps the chili moist as it simmers. If you’re watching fat, leaner beef works too—just know you might sacrifice a bit of that classic hearty texture. Either way, brown and drain well before mixing into the chili.

Ingredients for the Copycat Wendy’s Chili

Ground Beef – The star protein; hearty and savory when browned.

Kidney Beans – Their creamy texture adds a nice bite and fiber boost.

Pinto Beans – Earthier than kidney beans, they deepen the flavor.

Tomato Sauce – Forms the luscious base with rich umami.

Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies – For a tangy, mildly spicy twist.

Celery & Onion – Add aromatic depth and slight crunch.

Green Bell Pepper – For sweetness and balance.

Chili Powder, Cumin & Garlic Powder – The holy trinity of bold, smoky chili flavor.

Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances every other ingredient.

Water or Beef Broth – Keeps everything juicy and simmer-ready.

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How To Make the Copycat Wendy’s Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Break it up into small pieces as it browns, just like Wendy’s signature texture. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Add Veggies and Spices

Stir in chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toast the spices briefly for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Build the Base

Pour in diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, beans, and water (or broth). Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer Low and Slow

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to low. Simmer uncovered for at least 1 hour (up to 2 for deeper flavor), stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Serve and Top

Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped onions, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick.

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Serving and Storing This Chili

Serve hot in bowls with classic toppings or over baked potatoes, hot dogs, or nachos. It’s versatile and satisfying.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

What to Serve With Copycat Wendy’s Chili?

Cornbread Muffins

Their slightly sweet crumb complements the chili’s savoriness.

Saltine Crackers

A nod to Wendy’s style—perfect for dunking.

Baked Potatoes

Turn it into a full meal with chili-stuffed baked potatoes.

Garlic Bread

Hearty and perfect for scooping.

Side Salad

Something fresh and crisp for contrast.

Mac and Cheese

A rich, creamy side to round out the meal.

Coleslaw

Adds tang and texture to your chili spread.

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Want More Hearty Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Copycat Wendy’s Chili, you might also enjoy these filling comfort foods:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a velvety pasta twist.
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells if you want something rich and veggie-forward.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for baked, cheesy bliss.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you need a quick one-pan meal.
• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a restaurant-style finish at home.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for extra spice? Try it over fries? Add more beans?

I love seeing the creative spins others put on these classics. Questions are welcome, too—let’s make it easier for everyone to enjoy delicious homemade meals.

Explore more cozy, hearty meals and health-boosting recipes on Chef Alchemy’s Pinterest.

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