Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 bell peppers, chopped (any color); 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, lime wedges

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili, especially on a chilly day. The combination of spices mingles beautifully while slow-cooking, and the aroma fills the house, making it hard to wait for dinner. Using fresh vegetables and black beans not only adds great nutrition but also ensures the chili is hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s really easy to throw together—just chop, toss, and let the slow cooker do its magic. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to recipe for your weekly meal prep.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:55:11.418Z

When I first tried making black bean chili in my slow cooker, I was blown away by how simple it is. I started with canned black beans, fresh tomatoes, and a mix of spices I had on hand. What surprised me most was the depth of flavor that developed after simmering for hours. I recommend adding a splash of lime juice just before serving to elevate the taste further.

Over time, I've experimented with different vegetables, too, like bell peppers and corn, which not only add color but also a delightful sweetness. I also like to serve it with avocado or Greek yogurt for creaminess. Each bowl is a healthy and hearty meal that warms both the body and soul.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavor that satisfies your cravings
Packed with nutritious ingredients for a guilt-free meal
Easy to prepare; just set it and forget it

      

Understanding Black Beans

Black beans are the star of this chili, offering not just heartiness but also a wealth of nutrients. They're high in fiber and protein, making this dish quite filling. Their creamy texture melds beautifully with the spices and vegetables as they cook, creating a satisfying mouthfeel. When selecting canned black beans for this recipe, check the ingredients for added preservatives. Opt for varieties labeled as 'low sodium' if you're watching your salt intake, allowing you to control the seasoning better.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider using dried black beans instead of canned. Just remember to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Dried beans typically take double the time to cook compared to canned. This change can enhance the overall flavor and texture of your chili, giving it a fresh taste that many find appealing.

Spice It Up

Spices are paramount in elevating this black bean chili. The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika provides a depth of flavor that is both aromatic and comforting. For a little extra kick, you can add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños, adjusting to your taste preferences. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different spice blends; adding a dash of oregano or coriander can also change the profile of the dish, creating your perfect bowl.

Another tip is to toast the spices in the initial stages of cooking — just heat them in the skillet for a minute before adding them to the crockpot. This technique can boost their flavor intensity significantly, ensuring the spices infuse the entire dish with richness and warmth.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this chili, the possibilities are endless. While I usually enjoy it with classic toppings like avocado and cilantro, you can also add shredded cheese, plain yogurt, or jalapeño slices for an extra layer of flavor. A squeeze of fresh lime just before serving brightens the flavors remarkably, so don’t skip this step if you can help it.

This chili doubles as an excellent filling for burritos or tacos, too, making it versatile for both lunch and dinner. If you're thinking about leftovers, they store beautifully in the fridge for up to a week, or you can freeze them in portions for a quick meal in the future. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious chili.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bell peppers, chopped (any color)
2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
2 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, lime wedges

Once you have all the ingredients ready, let's move on to preparing the chili.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious black bean chili.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the crockpot. Add the bell peppers, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and all spices. Stir well to combine.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 6 hours or until the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally if possible.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.

And voilà! You have a comforting bowl of chili ready to enjoy.

Pro Tips

For added depth, consider roasting the bell peppers before adding them to the pot. You can also add other beans or some corn for extra texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best features of this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is its make-ahead convenience. Prepare the ingredients the night before by chopping your vegetables and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The next day, you can simply sauté the aromatics in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This step not only saves time but enhances the flavors as well.

Leftover chili is fantastic for meal prep. Let it cool entirely before transferring it to containers; it can last in the fridge for about five days. To reheat, simmer it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. This way, you can enjoy a hearty meal throughout the week without extra cooking, making weekday dinners stress-free.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to get creative with the vegetables in this chili. Adding corn, zucchini, or carrots not only boosts the nutrient profile but also adds a nice texture and sweetness that complements the savory elements. If you’re looking for a kick of freshness, toss in some kale or spinach during the last hour of cooking for an extra boost of vitamins while maintaining the chili’s hearty essence.

For a different flavor profile, consider incorporating other legumes like kidney beans or pinto beans, which can subtly alter the dish's texture. You can also substitute the vegetable broth with chicken broth for a non-vegetarian twist, or introduce a can of coconut milk for a creamier, slightly tropical version of the chili that pairs beautifully with the spices.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you will need to soak and cook them beforehand. Adjust the liquid in the crockpot accordingly.

→ Is this chili spicy?

It has a mild heat due to the diced tomatoes with green chilies. You can add more chili powder or fresh chilies to increase the heat.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use as a topping?

Popular toppings include avocado, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro. Lime wedges add a nice zing!