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Wendy’s Chili

Wendy’s Chili

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Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the pot with the beef.
  2. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften. Stir occasionally to ensure they don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth

  1. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
  2. Add the kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Season the Chili

  1. Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, and sugar.
  2. Stir thoroughly to ensure the seasonings blend evenly into the chili. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want a bit of extra heat.

Step 5: Simmer the Chili

  1. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially with a lid.
  2. Let the chili simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

  • Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add a little more salt, chili powder, or spices to suit your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty Wendy’s-style chili with:

  • Freshly baked cornbread or crusty bread for dipping.
  • A dollop of sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  • A sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions for extra flavor.
  • Crispy tortilla chips on the side for a satisfying crunch.

For a lighter option, pair the chili with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Tips for the Best Homemade Chili

  1. Let it Simmer: The longer chili cooks, the better the flavor develops. Allow at least 30 minutes for simmering, but an hour is even better.
  2. Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh onions, bell peppers, and celery add texture and flavor to the chili.
  3. Make it Spicy: If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or extra cayenne pepper.
  4. Thicker Chili: To thicken, let the chili simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes, or add a tablespoon of masa harina (corn flour).
  5. Custom Beans: Feel free to swap or mix different beans like black beans or cannellini beans.

Make Ahead & Freezing Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover chili in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Freeze: Chili freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This homemade Wendy’s chili recipe brings the same rich, hearty flavors of the fast-food favorite to your kitchen. It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can tweak the spice level, use your favorite beans, or even swap beef for turkey for a leaner version.

Final Thoughts

Recreate the magic of Wendy’s chili in the comfort of your own kitchen with this easy recipe. It’s a perfect balance of savory beef, tender beans, tangy tomatoes, and warming spices that will make your home smell amazing. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner, a game-day snack, or a freezer-friendly meal prep option, this chili is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

So grab your favorite pot and give this copycat Wendy’s chili a try—it’s hearty, comforting, and absolutely delicious! 🍲

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