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Wendy’s Copycat Chili

Wendy’s Copycat Chili
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Recreate the bold and hearty flavor of Wendy’s iconic chili at home with this easy copycat recipe. Packed with lean ground beef, kidney and pinto beans, aromatic spices, and rich tomato base, this comforting dish is perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. Simple ingredients and straightforward steps deliver an authentic taste that can be customized to suit your spice preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 pound lean to medium-fat ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Beans

  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

Tomato Base and Liquids

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth

Spices and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon to draw out excess fat and build the chili’s meaty foundation.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Stir in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic into the browned beef. Sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until fragrant and translucent, enhancing the chili’s aromatic base and sweetness.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine, then bring to a gentle simmer. This helps flavors marry and softens the vegetables.
  4. Incorporate Beans and Spices: Add the drained and rinsed kidney and pinto beans to the pot. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and brown sugar over the mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices infuse evenly throughout the chili.
  5. Simmer and Serve: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow cooking deepens flavors producing that signature Wendy’s Copycat Chili taste. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices such as chili powder and cumin for vibrant flavor.
  • Allow the chili to simmer slowly and longer to meld flavors and tenderize the beef.
  • Drain excess fat after browning the meat for a cleaner taste.
  • Adjust chili consistency by adding broth to thin or simmer uncovered to thicken.
  • Chili tastes even better the next day after resting to develop flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Wendy's chili, copycat chili recipe, hearty chili, beef chili, comfort food, easy chili, homemade chili

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