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Copycat Wendy’s Chili Recipe

Copycat Wendy's Chili Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 17 reviews

This Copycat Wendy’s Chili recipe recreates the classic fast-food favorite with a hearty blend of ground beef or turkey, beans, vegetables, and a perfectly balanced mix of spices. It’s simmered low and slow for a rich, comforting flavor that’s perfect for any chili lover craving a delicious homemade meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or 1 lb of each)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 rib celery, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)

Canned Goods

  • 14 oz can petite diced tomatoes
  • 10.75 oz can condensed tomato soup
  • 15.5 oz can dark red kidney beans, drained
  • 15 oz can chili beans, not drained

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar (1 tbsp per bowl)

Toppings (to taste)

  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped red onion
  • Frank’s hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat and Vegetables: In a dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground turkey and/or beef along with diced onion, chopped celery, and green bell pepper (if using). Cook and stir for about 6-10 minutes until the onions are translucent and the meat is fully cooked.
  2. Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Spices: Stir in the petite diced tomatoes, condensed tomato soup, drained kidney beans, and undrained chili beans. Add chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to let it simmer.
  3. Simmer the Chili: Cover the pot and simmer the chili on low heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the flavors blend well.
  4. Serve and Garnish: Spoon the chili into bowls and stir in 1 tablespoon of white vinegar per bowl just before serving. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, and a dash of Frank’s hot sauce according to your preference.

Notes

  • Using a combination of ground beef and turkey balances flavor and leanness.
  • The green bell pepper is optional but adds a fresh bite and colorful contrast.
  • Simmering low and slow enhances the depth of flavor and tenderizes the ingredients.
  • Adjust the amount of chili powder and hot sauce to suit your spice tolerance.
  • White vinegar added at the end brightens and balances the chili’s taste.
  • Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal experience.

Nutrition

Keywords: Wendy's chili copycat, homemade chili recipe, beef chili, turkey chili, slow simmer chili, easy chili recipe, classic chili

Find it online: https://nataliereeve.com/copycat-wendys-chili-recipe/