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Wendy’s Copycat Chili

Wendy’s Copycat Chili
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This Wendy’s Copycat Chili recipe delivers the rich, hearty, and comforting flavors of the fast-food favorite with simple pantry ingredients, quick preparation under 30 minutes, and a perfect balance of spices. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals, this chili is protein-packed, kid-friendly, and easily customizable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, including liquid
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This step builds a flavorful base and renders some fat.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. These aromatics bring depth to your chili’s flavor.
  3. Add Spices and Brown Sugar: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and brown sugar, stirring well to coat the beef mixture. Let the spices toast lightly for a minute to release their full aroma.
  4. Stir in Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth: Pour in diced tomatoes, kidney beans (including the liquid), Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
  5. Simmer Until Thickened: Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid slightly ajar, and let your chili simmer for 20 minutes. This allows flavors to meld and the chili to thicken to the perfect consistency. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Notes

  • Drain Excess Fat: After browning the beef, drain off excess fat for a leaner chili if preferred.
  • Use Canned Beans with Liquid: Including the bean liquid helps thicken the chili and enhances flavor.
  • Adjust Thickness: Simmer longer uncovered to reduce liquid or add broth if it’s too thick.
  • Fresh Spices: Use fresh chili powder and cumin for the best vibrant flavors.
  • Rest Before Serving: Letting the chili sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps intensify the taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Wendy's chili copycat, quick chili recipe, easy chili, beef chili, kid-friendly chili, copycat fast food, hearty chili, weeknight dinner

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