If you’re a fan of Wendy’s chili, then you’re in for a treat. This slow cooker copycat recipe brings the comforting flavors of Wendy’s famous chili right to your kitchen. Perfect for chilly nights, game day, or any time you crave a hearty and satisfying meal, this chili is loaded with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices. Let’s dive into making this delicious, easy-to-prepare dish!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Slow Cooker CopyCat Wendy’s Chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (15-ounce) cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 (4-ounce) cans green chiles
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion, diced green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned ground beef and sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker.
- Add Beans and Tomatoes: Add the drained kidney beans, pinto beans, tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, and green chiles to the slow cooker.
- Season and Mix: Pour in the apple cider vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Chili
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Cook on High: Alternatively, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time.
Step 4: Serve the Chili
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.
Cooking Notes
- Bean Varieties: Feel free to mix up the beans. Black beans or cannellini beans can be great additions or substitutions.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier chili, you can add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
- Thickening the Chili: If you like a thicker chili, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to let some of the liquid evaporate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a lighter version of this chili. Follow the same instructions, using turkey instead.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chili in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like corn, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
What toppings go well with this chili?
Some great toppings for this chili include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and tortilla chips.
Keto/Low Carb Version
For a keto-friendly version of this chili:
- Beans: Reduce or eliminate the beans. Use a mix of low-carb vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, and green beans instead.
- Tomato Sauce: Ensure the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes have no added sugar.
- Sweeteners: Use a keto-friendly sweetener if needed to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
This Slow Cooker CopyCat Wendy’s Chili is a simple and delicious way to bring the flavors of your favorite fast-food chili to your home kitchen. With minimal prep and the ease of the slow cooker, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy with family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and let the warmth and flavors of homemade chili fill your home.
Try this Slow Cooker CopyCat Wendy’s Chili recipe and share your experience in the comments below! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!
