Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.

Combine Ingredients
Transfer the beef to a 6-quart pot. Add all remaining ingredients and stir to combine.

Simmer
Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring every 15 minutes.

Slow Cooker Option
After browning the beef, place all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours.

Variations
– Spicy Version: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or more cayenne pepper.
– Vegetarian: Omit beef, add more beans or lentils, mushrooms, or zucchini.
– Turkey Chili: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey.
– Smoky Flavor: Add 1 tsp smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke.

Storage and Reheating
– Refrigerator: Cool completely, store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
– Freezer: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
– Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, or microwave individual portions.

Frequently Asked Questions

– Q: Does this really taste like Wendy’s Chili?
A: Yes! This recipe mimics the flavor and texture very closely.

– Q: Can I use a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely. Just brown the meat first and cook everything on low for 3–4 hours.

– Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes, in fact it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

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