How to Make Wendy’s Chili Recipe Perfect for Any Night

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to bring comfort and joy to a chilly evening! If you’re like me, you love quick family dinners that are hearty and satisfying. Today, I’m excited to share my take on the Wendy’s Chili Recipe, a delicious and easy dish that will quickly become a staple in your home. With simple ingredients and a few tips, you can whip up this delightful chili that rivals the original. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a Wendy’s Chili Copycat that captures all the flavors you love.
• Perfect for weeknight dinner ideas that are both filling and nutritious.
• Easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers!
• Can be made in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for 30-minute meals.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Wendy’s Chili Recipe Easy, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 (10-ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green chiles (I use Rotel or Hunt’s Seasoned Diced Tomatoes in Sauce for Chili)
• 1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup water (plus more as needed)
• 1 (1.25-ounce) package chili seasoning (such as McCormick® Mild Chili Seasoning Mix)
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans (undrained)
• 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans (undrained)
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 Tablespoon white vinegar (or to taste)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious chili:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it into large chunks. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until browned and no longer pink. Drain any grease.
2. Stir in 1 chopped onion, 2 stalks chopped celery, and 1 chopped green bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
3. Pour in 2 cans of diced tomatoes with green chiles, 1 can of tomato sauce, and 1/4 cup of water. Add more water (up to 1/2 cup) if there isn’t enough liquid.
4. Stir in 1 package of chili seasoning, 1 can of undrained kidney beans, and 1 can of undrained pinto beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 1 hour, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld together.
6. Mix in 1/2 Tablespoon of vinegar right before serving. Enjoy with your favorite toppings, such as cheese and sour cream!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your chili turns out perfectly:

• For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• If you love beans, add an extra can of your favorite variety!
• Letting the chili sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge can enhance the flavors even more.
• Pair it with some cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.

How to Serve

This Wendy’s Chili Recipe is perfect for serving on its own or with a variety of toppings. Here are some ideas:

• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work great!)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess
• Chopped green onions for a fresh crunch
• Crushed tortilla chips for added texture
• Fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor

For a fun twist, you can even serve it over pasta for a unique take on easy pasta recipes!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chili is fantastic for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully, so feel free to double the recipe and save some for later. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

So there you have it! A delicious, hearty Wendy’s Chili Recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a dish to impress your friends, this chili is sure to be a hit. And if you’re in the mood for more comforting meals, check out my Ground Beef Stovetop Chili or Best Ever Beef Chili for more delicious options. Happy cooking!