The 1976 Chico State Wildcats football team represented California State University, Chico as a member of the Far Western Conference (FWC) during the 1976 NCAA Division II football season. Led by third-year head coach Dick Trimmer, Chico State compiled an overall record of 5–6 with a mark of 2–3 in conference play, placing in a three-way tied for third in the FWC. The team was outscored by its opponents 249 to 187 for the season. The Wildcats played home games at University Stadium in Chico, California.