Winter is coming, or maybe it’s just a chilly day. Nothing beats a warm meal that feels like a hug, and that’s exactly what chili does for me. I’ve gathered two of my absolute favorite comforting chili recipes you can easily make at home.
Whether you like a rich, surprising flavor or a familiar classic, I think you’ll find a new go-to here. Let’s get cooking these amazing chili dishes!
Jump to Recipe:
Rich and Warm Chocolate Chili Recipe
This chocolate chili is a truly special bowl. The little bit of chocolate adds a deep, complex flavor without making it sweet.
It’s perfect for a cozy night and will surprise your taste buds in the best way.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Chocolate Chili
- Dark Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for depth. It doesn’t make the chili sweet, it just makes the other spices taste richer.
- Coffee Shot: A small amount of strong brewed coffee or espresso can make the chocolate flavor pop even more. You won’t taste the coffee itself.
What You Need for Chocolate Chili
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can dark kidney beans, rinsed
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup water or beef broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
⏱️ Time: 45 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make This Chocolate Chili
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Veggies
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown your ground meat over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any extra fat once it’s cooked through. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pot, cooking until they are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Combine and Simmer Flavors
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, rinsed kidney beans, cocoa powder, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and water or broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for at least 30 minutes, letting all the flavors come together. Stir occasionally.
📝 Final Note on Chocolate Chili
This chili tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great option for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Classic Copycat Wendy’s Chili Recipe
If you love the familiar taste of Wendy’s chili, you’re in for a treat with this recipe. It aims to give you that classic, comforting flavor right from your own kitchen.
It’s simple, hearty, and satisfying, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Copycat Wendy’s Chili
- Leftover Hamburger Meat: For the most authentic Wendy’s taste, use ground beef that’s already cooked and broken into small pieces, just like in their restaurants.
- Small Dice Veggies: Cut your onions and celery into very small pieces. This helps them blend into the chili, giving that signature texture without big chunks.
What You Need for Copycat Wendy’s Chili
- 1 lb cooked ground beef, crumbled
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, rinsed
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup beef broth or water (more if needed)
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 8 servings
How to Make This Copycat Wendy’s Chili
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine your cooked ground beef, diced tomatoes (undrained), rinsed kidney beans, rinsed pinto beans, tomato sauce, finely diced onion, finely diced celery, chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Add 1 cup of beef broth or water. Stir everything well to combine.
Step 2: Simmer Slowly to Develop Flavor
Bring the mixture to a low boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for at least an hour, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This long, slow simmer helps the flavors meld together and the vegetables soften perfectly. Add more liquid if the chili becomes too thick.
📝 Final Note on Copycat Wendy’s Chili
Top your chili with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some chopped onions for the full Wendy’s experience. It’s also great with a side of saltine crackers!
