Beyond the Bun: Creative Recipes Using Wendy’s 2 for $7 Deal
Wendy’s 2 for $7 deal is a fantastic way to grab a quick and affordable meal. But what if you’re looking to get more creative than just eating the sandwiches as they are? This deal offers an excellent foundation for some surprisingly delicious and easy-to-make recipes. Let’s explore how you can transform those classic Wendy’s items into exciting new dishes.
## Understanding the Wendy’s 2 for $7 Deal
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s clarify what’s typically included in the Wendy’s 2 for $7 deal. While the specific items can vary slightly depending on location and promotional periods, it generally includes a selection of their popular sandwiches. Common options include:
* **Dave’s Single:** A classic square-pattied burger with cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, mayo, and onion on a toasted bun.
* **Spicy Chicken Sandwich:** A crispy, breaded chicken patty with a spicy kick, topped with lettuce and mayo on a toasted bun.
* **Classic Chicken Sandwich:** A breaded chicken patty with lettuce, tomato, and mayo on a toasted bun.
* **Sometimes other limited-time offer sandwiches are included.**
Knowing what’s available allows you to plan your recipes accordingly. Also, remember to check the current offerings at your local Wendy’s to ensure you have the correct ingredients.
## Recipe Ideas Using Wendy’s 2 for $7 Deal
Here are several creative recipe ideas that utilize the Wendy’s 2 for $7 deal, transforming those classic sandwiches into something completely new:
### 1. Wendy’s Burger Bowl
**Concept:** Deconstruct the Dave’s Single and create a healthy and customizable burger bowl.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Dave’s Single sandwiches (from the 2 for $7 deal)
* 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
* 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
* 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup shredded lettuce
* 2 tablespoons light vinaigrette dressing
* Optional: Avocado slices, sriracha, jalapenos
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Base:** Cook quinoa or brown rice according to package directions. Let cool slightly.
2. **Deconstruct the Burgers:** Carefully remove the top bun from both Dave’s Single sandwiches. Set the bottom buns aside (we’ll use them later!).
3. **Chop the Burger Patty:** Chop the burger patties into bite-sized pieces.
4. **Assemble the Bowl:** In two separate bowls, divide the cooked quinoa/rice. Top with chopped burger patty, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and shredded lettuce.
5. **Dress and Serve:** Drizzle with light vinaigrette dressing. Add optional toppings like avocado, sriracha, or jalapenos to your liking.
6. **Repurpose the Buns:** Toast the bottom buns and cut them into croutons for extra crunch in your bowl, or use them for another meal.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different grains like farro or couscous for the base.
* Add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or black beans.
* Substitute the vinaigrette with a Greek yogurt-based dressing for a creamier option.
* For a spicier bowl, add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes.
### 2. Spicy Chicken Quesadillas
**Concept:** Transform the Spicy Chicken Sandwich into a flavorful quesadilla.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Spicy Chicken Sandwiches (from the 2 for $7 deal)
* 4 flour tortillas (8-10 inch)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
* 2 tablespoons butter or oil
* Optional: Sour cream, salsa, guacamole
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Remove the chicken patties from the Spicy Chicken Sandwiches. Chop the patties into bite-sized pieces.
2. **Assemble the Quesadillas:** Lay out two tortillas. Sprinkle half a cup of cheese evenly over each tortilla. Top with half of the chopped spicy chicken. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the chicken.
3. **Top with the Second Tortilla:** Place the remaining two tortillas on top of the cheese and chicken mixture.
4. **Cook the Quesadillas:** Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter or oil to the skillet. Carefully place one quesadilla in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
5. **Repeat:** Repeat the process with the second quesadilla.
6. **Serve:** Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add diced tomatoes, onions, or peppers to the quesadillas for extra flavor and texture.
* Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Oaxaca cheese.
* Add a layer of refried beans to the quesadilla for a heartier meal.
* For a spicier quesadilla, add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili powder.
### 3. Wendy’s Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
**Concept:** Reimagine the Classic Chicken Sandwich as a refreshing and portable Caesar salad wrap.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Classic Chicken Sandwiches (from the 2 for $7 deal)
* 2 large flour tortillas (10-12 inch)
* 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
* 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Optional: Croutons, bacon bits
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Remove the chicken patties from the Classic Chicken Sandwiches. Chop the patties into bite-sized pieces.
2. **Mix the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat.
3. **Assemble the Wraps:** Lay out the two tortillas. Divide the Caesar salad mixture evenly between the two tortillas. Top with the chopped chicken.
4. **Fold the Wraps:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold up the bottom and roll tightly to create a wrap.
5. **Serve:** Cut the wraps in half, if desired, and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers to the salad.
* Use a different type of dressing, such as ranch or balsamic vinaigrette.
* Add avocado slices for a creamy texture.
* For a spicier wrap, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
### 4. Deconstructed Wendy’s Burger Salad
**Concept:** A lighter, healthier take on the classic Dave’s Single, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Dave’s Single sandwiches (from the 2 for $7 deal)
* 6 cups mixed greens
* 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
* 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup dill pickle chips
* Your favorite burger sauce (Thousand Island, special sauce, etc.)
* Optional: Crumbled bacon, hard-boiled egg slices
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Burger Components:** Remove the burger patties from the Dave’s Single sandwiches. Chop them into bite-sized pieces. Discard the buns (or save them for another use, like making croutons).
2. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and pickle chips.
3. **Add the Burger:** Add the chopped burger pieces to the salad.
4. **Dress and Serve:** Drizzle your favorite burger sauce over the salad and toss gently to combine. Top with optional ingredients like crumbled bacon or hard-boiled egg slices.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of lettuce, such as romaine or iceberg.
* Add other vegetables, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
* Use a different type of dressing, such as ranch or blue cheese.
* For a spicier salad, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
### 5. Spicy Chicken and Waffle Fries Hash
**Concept:** A hearty and flavorful hash that combines the spice of Wendy’s chicken with crispy waffle fries.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Spicy Chicken Sandwiches (from the 2 for $7 deal) – remove the chicken patties only, discard the buns.
* 1 large order of Wendy’s Waffle Fries (or frozen waffle fries, cooked)
* 1/2 cup diced onion
* 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Fried egg, hot sauce
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ingredients:** Chop the Spicy Chicken patties into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and bell pepper. If using frozen waffle fries, cook them according to package directions.
2. **Cook the Vegetables:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Add the Chicken and Fries:** Add the chopped Spicy Chicken and waffle fries to the skillet. Season with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. **Cook the Hash:** Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken and fries are heated through and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
5. **Serve:** Serve the hash hot. Top with a fried egg and hot sauce, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn.
* Use different spices, such as cumin or paprika.
* Add a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and savory flavor.
* For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with black beans or chickpeas.
### 6. Wendy’s Burger Stuffed Bell Peppers
**Concept:** Combine the flavors of a Dave’s Single with bell peppers for a healthy and delicious stuffed pepper meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Dave’s Single Sandwiches (from the 2 for $7 deal) – remove patties only, discard the buns.
* 2 large bell peppers (any color), halved and seeded
* 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
* 1/2 cup diced onion
* 1/2 cup diced tomato
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Tomato sauce, sour cream
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Peppers:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Halve the bell peppers lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with a little olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes to soften them slightly.
2. **Prepare the Burger Filling:** Remove the burger patties from the Dave’s Single sandwiches and chop them into small pieces. In a large bowl, combine the chopped burger, cooked rice, diced onion, diced tomato, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. **Stuff the Peppers:** Remove the bell peppers from the oven. Spoon the burger filling into each pepper half, mounding it slightly.
4. **Bake the Peppers:** Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. **Serve:** Serve the stuffed peppers hot. Top with tomato sauce or sour cream, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other vegetables like corn, black beans, or mushrooms to the filling.
* Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
* Top the peppers with breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy topping.
### 7. Spicy Chicken Fried Rice
**Concept:** Give your fried rice a spicy kick with the addition of Wendy’s Spicy Chicken patty.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Spicy Chicken Sandwiches (from the 2 for $7 deal)- remove patties only, discard the buns.
* 3 cups cooked rice (day-old rice works best)
* 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 egg, beaten
* Optional: Green onions for garnish, sriracha
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Remove the Spicy Chicken patties from the sandwiches and chop them into small pieces.
2. **Stir-fry the Vegetables:** Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
3. **Add the Chicken and Vegetables:** Add the chopped Spicy Chicken and frozen peas and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
4. **Add the Rice and Sauce:** Push the chicken and vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten egg into the empty side and cook, stirring constantly, until scrambled. Mix the scrambled egg with the chicken and vegetables. Add the cooked rice and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, until the rice is heated through and evenly coated with the soy sauce.
5. **Serve:** Serve the fried rice hot. Garnish with green onions and a drizzle of sriracha, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli.
* Add a dash of ginger or garlic for extra flavor.
* Use different sauces, such as oyster sauce or hoisin sauce.
* For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
### 8. Wendy’s Burger Nachos
**Concept:** A fun and shareable appetizer or snack that combines the flavors of a Dave’s Single with crispy tortilla chips.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Dave’s Single sandwiches (from the 2 for $7 deal)- remove patties only, discard the buns.
* 1 bag tortilla chips
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup diced tomato
* 1/4 cup sliced black olives
* 1/4 cup sliced jalapenos (optional)
* Sour cream and salsa for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Burger:** Remove the burger patties from the Dave’s Single sandwiches and chop them into small pieces.
2. **Assemble the Nachos:** Spread the tortilla chips on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle the chopped burger evenly over the chips. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomato, black olives, and jalapenos (if using).
3. **Bake the Nachos:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the nachos for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. **Serve:** Serve the nachos hot with sour cream and salsa on the side.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
* Add other toppings like guacamole, refried beans, or pico de gallo.
* Add a drizzle of nacho cheese sauce for extra cheesiness.
* For a spicier version, use pepper jack cheese and add extra jalapenos.
### 9. Creamy Tomato Soup with Wendy’s Grilled Cheese Croutons
**Concept:** A comforting bowl of tomato soup elevated with crispy, savory croutons made from Wendy’s buns.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 Wendy’s buns (from Dave’s Single or Classic Chicken Sandwiches purchased using the 2 for $7 deal – you can use the buns from previous recipes!)
* 4 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Your favorite Tomato Soup Recipe or store-bought tomato soup
* Optional: Fresh basil for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Croutons:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the Wendy’s buns into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubed buns in a large bowl.
2. **Season the Croutons:** Drizzle the olive oil over the bun cubes. Sprinkle with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. **Bake the Croutons:** Spread the croutons in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. **Prepare the Soup:** Prepare your favorite tomato soup recipe or heat up store-bought tomato soup according to package directions.
5. **Serve:** Ladle the tomato soup into bowls. Top with the Wendy’s Grilled Cheese Croutons and garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different herbs and spices for the croutons, such as Italian seasoning or paprika.
* Add grated Parmesan cheese to the croutons before baking for a cheesy flavor.
* Serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche.
* Blend the soup for a smoother texture.
### 10. Wendy’s Chicken and Bacon Ranch Wrap
**Concept:** Elevate the classic chicken sandwich by adding bacon and ranch for a flavor-packed wrap.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Spicy Chicken Sandwich or Classic Chicken Sandwich (from the 2 for $7 deal) – remove patty only, discard bun
* 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1/4 cup shredded lettuce
* 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
* 1 large flour tortilla
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Remove the chicken patty from the Spicy Chicken or Classic Chicken sandwich.
2. **Assemble the Wrap:** Lay out the large flour tortilla. Place the chicken patty in the center of the tortilla. Top with crumbled bacon, shredded lettuce, and ranch dressing.
3. **Fold the Wrap:** Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold up the bottom and roll tightly to create a wrap.
4. **Serve:** Cut the wrap in half, if desired, and serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add diced tomatoes or onions for extra freshness.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.
* Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* Toast the wrap in a panini press for a warm and crispy finish.
## Conclusion
The Wendy’s 2 for $7 deal is more than just a quick and affordable meal; it’s an opportunity for culinary creativity! With a little imagination, you can transform those classic sandwiches into a variety of delicious and satisfying dishes. So next time you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal, consider grabbing the 2 for $7 deal and trying out one of these exciting recipes. You might just surprise yourself with what you can create! Remember to always check the specific sandwiches included in the deal at your local Wendy’s to ensure you have the right starting ingredients.