slow cooker wendy’s chili recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best slow cooker wendy’s chili recipe

I’ve always been a fan of hearty, comforting dishes that warm the soul, and Wendy’s chili is one of those recipes that never fails to hit the spot. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker and let it do its magic while I’m busy with other things.

The result is a rich, flavorful chili that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. My family loves it when I serve it with some crusty bread or over rice, and we often have leftovers for lunch the next day.

I’ve tried making chili from scratch before, but this recipe is so much easier and still yields amazing results. Plus, it’s great for using up any leftover ground beef or turkey we have on hand.

The key to this recipe is letting it cook low and slow in the crock pot, which allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s also incredibly easy to make in bulk for larger gatherings or potlucks.

My kids are always asking for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) , which says a lot about how much they enjoy it.

I love serving this chili at game-day parties or holiday gatherings because it’s just so easy to serve a crowd with minimal fuss. One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – we like to add in different toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions to make it our own.

Slow Cooker Wendy’s Chili

4.8 from 1903 votes

A hearty and flavorful chili inspired by Wendy’s, slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe combines ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices for a comforting meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Meat

1.5 lbs ground beef

Beans

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

Vegetables

1 onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

Spices

1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp oregano
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Other

1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp olive oil
Sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese for topping

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3Drain excess fat.
4Transfer beef to the slow cooker.
5In the same skillet, add onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper.
6Cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
7Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
8Transfer the vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.
9Add kidney beans, chili beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the slow cooker.
10Stir well to combine.
11Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
12After 8 hours, the chili should be thick and the flavors well-combined.
13Stir well and taste for seasoning.
14If the chili is too thick, add a little water or more beef broth.
15If it is too thin, cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.
16Serve the chili hot, topped with sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
17Enjoy your Slow Cooker Wendy’s Chili.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Wooden spoon
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier chili, add more cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. You can also customize the beans to your preference, using black beans or navy beans instead.

This slow cooker Wendy’s chili recipe has become a staple in our household – it’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal for a crowd, this recipe delivers.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and freeze for later, making it perfect for busy families like mine.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Wendy’s Chili

Q: What type of meat can I use in this recipe?

I’ve used ground beef and ground turkey in this recipe with great results. You can also experiment with other types of meat like ground pork or even vegetarian options like tempeh or seitan if you’re looking for a meat-free alternative.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! This chili freezes beautifully and can be made ahead of time for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I customize this recipe?

Of course! This recipe is highly customizable – feel free to add in your favorite spices or adjust the level of heat to your liking.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients of any store-bought broth or seasonings you use.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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