How to Make Wendy s Chili Recipe That Everyone Loves

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to bring comfort and joy to your dinner table, especially on a chilly evening! Today, I’m excited to share with you my take on Wendy’s Chili Recipe, a dish that has become a family favorite in our home. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for quick family dinners or even a cozy gathering with friends. Plus, if you’re looking for easy pasta recipes to pair with it, I’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into this deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying appetites.
• Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Customizable to suit your taste—add more spice or veggies!
• Pairs wonderfully with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

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

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup water
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

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

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up your own pot of Wendy’s Chili:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion, celery, green pepper, and garlic until softened—about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water. Mix well.
4. Add the kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, sugar, and cayenne. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your chili turns out perfectly every time:

• For a richer flavor, let the chili simmer longer—up to 2 hours if you have the time!
• Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, like corn or zucchini, for extra nutrition.
• If you like it spicy, increase the cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños.
• Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for a delicious finish.

How to Serve

This Wendy’s Chili Recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve it in a bowl with a side of cornbread for a classic pairing.
• Over rice for a hearty meal that will keep you full.
• As a topping for baked potatoes or nachos for a fun twist.
• Pair it with a fresh salad for a balanced weeknight dinner idea.

Make Ahead and Storage

This chili is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy. It also freezes beautifully, so feel free to make a double batch and save some for later. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

For more delicious chili options, check out my Best Ever Beef Chili or Classic Slow Cooker Chili recipes!

So there you have it! A delicious, hearty Wendy’s Chili Recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re looking for 30-minute meals or just a comforting dish to warm you up, this chili is the answer. Enjoy every bite!