Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili because it’s incredibly easy and packed with flavor. The best part is that I can throw everything into the slow cooker in the morning and come home to a warm, comforting meal. This chili is not only hearty and satisfying, but it’s also loaded with nutritious ingredients like black beans, fresh veggies, and spices. It makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:01:13.458Z

When I first made this crockpot chili, I knew it would be a hit in our household. The process couldn’t be simpler: just chop the veggies, add the spices, and let the crockpot work its magic. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together, creating a rich and satisfying dish. I always make extra to have on hand because it freezes beautifully!

A key tip I've learned is to use a mix of spices like cumin and smoked paprika. This not only brings depth to the dish but also enhances the overall aroma while it's cooking. My family always looks forward to the delightful scent wafting through the house – it truly is chili perfection!

        You Will Love This Recipe Because
        It’s a quick set-it-and-forget-it recipe that saves time.
Loaded with fiber, protein, and vibrant veggies.
Perfect for customization – add your favorite toppings!

      

Ingredient Insights

The simplicity of the ingredients in this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is one of its strongest features. Black beans are not only a protein powerhouse but also add a creamy texture to the chili as they cook down. Rinsing and draining them ensures you remove excess sodium and preservatives, enhancing the flavor profile. Using fresh bell peppers adds a crispness that balances the hearty beans, while the diced tomatoes with green chilies provide a slight kick, making each bite exciting.

Each spice plays a crucial role in elevating this chili. The chili powder adds warmth, the cumin lends earthiness, and smoked paprika contributes a depth of flavor that rounds out the dish beautifully. I recommend using a good quality chili powder for the best flavor; the freshness of the spices can significantly impact the recipe. Also, feel free to experiment with the spice quantities based on your heat preference.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

When it comes to slow cooking, timing is essential. The low setting for 8 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty chili. If you choose the high setting for 4 hours, don’t be concerned if it doesn't seem as thick initially. The final consistency will improve as it simmers. Stir occasionally if you can, which helps incorporate all ingredients and ensures even cooking.

To enhance the complexity, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a dollop of sour cream right before serving. It brightens the flavor profile and adds a nice creamy texture. If you're looking for extra defense against blandness, keep a taste test spoon handy. Don't hesitate to adjust salt, pepper, or spices as it cooks; each slow cooker can behave differently.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

Main Ingredients

2 (15 oz) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable broth

Optional Toppings

Instructions

How to Make Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

Prepare Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion, bell pepper, and mincing the garlic. It's important to have all your ingredients ready to go for a smooth cooking process.

Combine Ingredients

In the crockpot, combine the black beans, diced tomatoes, chopped bell pepper, onion, corn, minced garlic, and all the spices.

Add Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth, and stir everything together until well mixed.

Slow Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to develop.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or cilantro.

Enjoy Your Chili!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of lime juice just before serving. This brightens up the chili and adds a fresh punch!

Serving Suggestions

This chili is incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. I like to serve it with sliced avocado, which adds a creamy element, balancing the spice and richness. Fresh cilantro not only adds a burst of color but also brings a refreshing flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, tortilla chips or crushed corn chips make great garnishes, adding texture to each bite.

If you're looking to enhance the nutritional value even further, consider serving your chili over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. This adds dimension and makes the meal even heartier. Additionally, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy leftovers; the chili can be easily reheated and served over grains for a quick lunch or dinner.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is a great make-ahead meal that you can prepare in advance. The flavors develop beautifully, making it even tastier the next day. After cooking, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheating is as simple as popping it in the microwave or simmering it on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, usually around 10-15 minutes.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions in a freezer-safe container. This chili freezes exceptionally well and can last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. Homemade meals ready in no time are a lifesaver for busy weeks!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to soak and cook them beforehand as dried beans require longer cooking times.

→ Is this chili spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less chili powder. Feel free to modify it according to your taste!

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This chili freezes well for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Some great toppings include avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.