Wendy's Chili Recipe (Easy Copycat Version)

This Wendy’s chili is a cozy, hearty dinner that's a favorite from the fast-food chain, but you can make it at home with this recipe! This copycat Wendy's chili recipe is made with simple ingredients, like seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, canned tomatoes, beans, and chili seasoning, all simmered together in one pot until rich and flavorful. It tastes just like the restaurant version, but it’s even fresher and more budget-friendly. Perfect for cold nights, game day, or meal prep, this homemade Wendy’s chili is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again all season long.

Why I Love This Wendy's Chili Recipe

I know chili isn’t the first thing most people think of when they think of Wendy’s, but it should be—it’s seriously one of the best things on their menu. It’s hearty, meaty, and loaded with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and the perfect blend of spices. Honestly, I might even like their chili more than their burgers, and that’s saying something.

That’s exactly why I wanted to recreate a copycat Wendy’s chili recipe at home. Now I can enjoy it anytime I want without waiting in the drive-thru line, and I have to say—it tastes every bit as good as the original, if not better.

Another reason I love this recipe is how simple it is. Everything cooks in one pot, so cleanup is minimal, and it’s ready in about 30 minutes. You end up with a big pot of hearty chili that can feed the whole family, and the leftovers taste even better the next day.

And while this chili is delicious on its own, I highly recommend serving it with my sweet potato cornbread on the side. The sweet cornbread balances out the smoky, savory chili in the best way. It’s the ultimate cold-weather meal I’ll be making all season long, and after you make it, I know you will too!

Ingredients

If you've ever cooked homemade chili before, you'll recognize this list of ingredients. They're all pretty standard chili ingredients, and I bet you probably have most - if not all - of them in your kitchen/pantry already.

Anyway, here's everything you need to make this Wendy's chili copycat recipe:

• 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1 Celery Stalk, chopped
• ½ Onion, chopped
• ½ Green Bell Pepper, chopped
• 1 (14 oz.) Can Stewed Tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
• 1 cup Water
• 4 tbsp. Chili Seasoning
• 1 (14 oz.) Can Kidney Beans, drained
• 1 (14 oz.) Can Pinto Beans, drained
• Salt and Pepper
• 1 tbsp. White Vinegar
• Cheddar Cheese, to top

Pretty simple chili recipe, right? And if you want to make another chili recipe that's just a little different than this Wendy's chili, you can use most of these ingredients to make this Texas Roadhouse chili.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

One of the best things about this copycat Wendy’s chili recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily swap ingredients depending on what you have on hand or how you like your chili.

• Tomatoes: Stewed tomatoes give the sauce a slightly sweeter, richer flavor, but you can also use crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, or even your favorite jarred tomato sauce in a pinch. Each option will slightly change the texture and depth of the chili, but all of them work well.
• Spice level: Wendy’s chili has a mild kick, but if you like yours spicier, there are plenty of ways to add heat. Stir in cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, extra chili powder, or a splash of hot sauce. I personally love adding Frank’s Hot Sauce for a tangy, smoky spice that really complements the beef and beans.
• Seasoning blends: For a little shortcut, you can boost flavor with a sprinkle of McCormick mild chili seasoning or your favorite chili packet. It layers in extra depth without needing to measure out additional spices.
• Fix-ins and toppings: Cheddar cheese is a classic topping for chili, but don’t stop there. Sour cream adds creaminess, crispy bacon bits bring a smoky crunch, and sliced avocado or green onions give it freshness. You can even add tortilla chips on top for texture or a drizzle of hot queso for an indulgent twist.
• Protein swaps: Ground beef is traditional in Wendy’s chili, but this recipe works just as well with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based crumbles if you want a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.
• Serving tip: This chili is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it’s also fantastic served over baked potatoes, rice, or even pasta for a chili mac-style dinner.

By the way, if you end up with extra tomatoes, beans, or veggies after making this chili, you can use many of the same ingredients in my Carrabba's lentil and sausage soup. It’s another cozy, flavorful recipe that’s perfect for weeknights.

How To Make Wendy's Chili

The steps required to make this Wendy's chili recipe could not be easier. Honestly, this is the easiest chili recipe you'll ever make from scratch.

As I mentioned, everything cooks in one pot, making the cooking process seamless and clean-up super quick. That's a win-win for a busy weeknight meal.

Now, let's stop wasting time and dive right into this recipe for the best Wendy's chili! 

Step 1: Cook The Ground Beef and Veggies

First, grab your favorite large pot - or Dutch oven - and set it over medium heat on your stovetop.

Then, add the olive oil to the pot, followed by the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon if necessary. Cook the ground beef until it's browned on all sides.

Once it's cooked, add in the celery, onion, and green bell pepper. Cook the veggies for about 15 minutes or until they're fork-tender.

Step 2: Make The Tomato Sauce

Now, we're going to make the base for this chili. To do that, add the stewed tomatoes (or tomato sauce or diced tomatoes), water, and chili powder to the pot with the beef and veggies.

Then, let everything cook together for about 15 minutes. And don't worry about putting the lid on the pot since the chili will continue to cook down and condense, making for an even richer and more flavorful chili.

Anyway, once that cooks, it's time to add the kidney beans and pinto beans (combo of chili beans), followed by the vinegar. Cook everything for 5 more minutes or until your family starts asking what smells so good!

Step 3: Serve The Chili

When your Wendy's copycat chili recipe is done cooking, serve it in about four individual bowls.

Then, you can add a little salt and pepper on top if you want, followed by some shredded cheddar cheese. Additionally, you can top your hearty chili off with whatever you want, like some tortilla chips and sour cream. Enjoy!

How To Store Leftover Wendy's Chili 

As good as this recipe for Wendy's chili is right after making it, it's honestly even better leftover! So, since that's the case, I always like to double or triple the recipe when I make it.

Also, storing the chili is a breeze. You can store the leftover cooked chili in the refrigerator in an airtight container for about 4 days. And if you want to keep it for longer, you can store the chili in an airtight container - or freezer-safe bag - and freeze it for  4-6 months.

How To Reheat Chili

To reheat your leftover chili, place it in the microwave and heat it in 20-second increments, stirring between each one, until it is thoroughly warm. With that said, I recommend placing a plate over the top of your bowl while it's microwaving to avoid any potential messes.

Alternatively, you can place your leftover chili on the stovetop set to medium heat and heat it for a few minutes, stirring regularly, until it reaches your desired temperature.

Wendy's Chili FAQS

Can I make Wendy’s chili in the slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the ground beef first, then add it to your slow cooker along with the beans, tomatoes, vegetables, and spices. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.

What kind of beans are in Wendy’s chili?

The classic recipe uses a mix of kidney beans and pinto beans. Both varieties hold their shape well during cooking and add heartiness to the chili. You can swap in black beans or white beans if that’s what you have on hand.

How can I make this chili spicier?

For more heat, add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños. If you like it really spicy, use a hotter chili powder blend or stir in a spoonful of chipotle in adobo for a smoky kick.

What can I serve with copycat Wendy’s chili?

This chili is hearty on its own, but it’s even better with toppings like cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, or tortilla chips. For a full meal, serve it with cornbread, baked potatoes, Texas Roadhouse rolls, or over rice for a chili bowl.

Wrapping It Up

Well, that's how to make Wendy's chili at home. Of all the homemade chili recipes I've tried, this one is by far the simplest and most richly flavored yet.

Honestly, it gives this Texas Roadhouse chili recipe a run for its money - and that's saying something.

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this copycat Wendy's chili recipe as much as I/we do. Leave a comment below and let us know how it went. And, as always, don't forget to check us out on Youtube, Instagram, and TikTok for more easy recipes just like this one.

More Copycat Recipes

Craving more copycat recipes from your favorite restaurants? Well, if you are, we have you covered! 

Try some of our other copycat recipes next:

• Olive Garden chicken alfredo
• Outback mac and cheese
• McDonald's spicy chicken sandwich
• McDonald's snack wraps
• Chick-Fil-A nuggets