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Wendy’s Copycat Chili

Wendy’s Copycat Chili
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Wendy’s Copycat Chili is a warm, hearty, and comforting dish that replicates the rich, classic flavor of the beloved fast-food chili. Made with lean ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, this recipe is easy to prepare using simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for chilly days, game nights, or any time you crave a flavorful, filling meal delivered straight from your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Beans

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Tomatoes and Sauces

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup water or beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

Spices

  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion finely and measure out all spices. Having everything ready upfront streamlines the cooking process.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Stir occasionally and drain any excess fat to keep the chili lean.
  3. Sauté Onions and Add Spices: Add the chopped onions to the pot with beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, coating the meat and onions evenly.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Beans: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  5. Add Liquids and Simmer: Add water or beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust salt, spices, or heat according to your preference.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to avoid greasy chili.
  • Let the chili simmer longer for deeper flavor development.
  • Drain excess fat after browning meat for a lighter chili.
  • Layer spices by adding some during browning and some during simmering for complex flavor.
  • Use fresh onions and high-quality canned tomatoes to elevate the taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Wendy's Copycat Chili, chili recipe, copycat fast food, hearty chili, easy chili, comfort food

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