Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh); Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili! It’s the perfect blend of flavors and nutrition, effortlessly prepared in my slow cooker. Making this chili is not only a breeze, but I also appreciate how it makes my home smell delicious throughout the day. With fresh veggies, hearty black beans, and a kick of spices, I enjoy a satisfying meal that feels wonderfully indulgent without the guilt. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish for meal prepping, allowing me to savor it throughout the week!

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:58:20.073Z

When I first decided to make this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili, I was on the lookout for something that balanced health and flavor. I experimented with various spices, and the combination of cumin and smoked paprika turned out to be the perfect match for the black beans. Each bowl is packed with protein and fiber, making it a hearty meal that I feel good about serving my family.

One of my favorite tips is to let the chili sit overnight in the fridge after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, transforming it into an even more delightful dish the next day! I love serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh cilantro for a refreshing touch.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich in protein and fiber from black beans
Loaded with fresh vegetables for added nutrition
Convenient one-pot meal that is easy to prep

      

The Role of Black Beans

Black beans are the star ingredient in this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili. Not only do they provide a rich, creamy texture, but they are also packed with protein and fiber, making this dish incredibly filling. Their naturally earthy flavor complements the spice blend perfectly, adding depth to each bite. When cooked in the slow cooker, the beans become tender and absorb all the delicious flavors from the surrounding ingredients, ensuring a hearty and satisfying meal.

If you're looking to make this recipe even more nutritious, consider adding an extra can of black beans or incorporating other legumes, such as kidney or pinto beans. This will enhance the protein content while introducing different textures and flavors. Just be mindful of the liquid ratios; you may need to reduce the amount of broth slightly to keep the chili from becoming too watery.

Choosing Your Vegetables

The vegetables in this chili not only boost its nutritional value but also contribute to its vibrant color and texture. When selecting vegetables, aim for fresh, firm produce to ensure the best flavor. Bell peppers, for example, can be any color you prefer—red, yellow, or green—to suit your taste or what you have on hand. I often use a mix for a visually appealing dish. Remember, the key is to dice them evenly so they cook at the same rate.

For added nutritional benefits, you can sneak in additional vegetables like zucchini or spinach, which wilts beautifully into the chili. If using frozen vegetables, such as corn, add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking to retain their texture and sweetness. This way, they won’t turn mushy and will keep that delightful burst of flavor.

Perfecting Flavor and Spices

Spices are crucial for elevating the flavor profile of your black bean chili. When adding chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, consider adjusting the amounts based on your spice tolerance. Some brands of chili powder can be spicier than others, so start with a lower quantity and taste as you go. I personally enjoy a slight kick, so I often add a pinch of cayenne pepper as well for an extra layer of warmth.

To build complexity, let your chili simmer longer if possible. The flavors meld beautifully over time, so if you have the luxury to leave it in the slow cooker on low for up to 6 hours, do it! This allows the spices to fully develop, resulting in a more robust and flavorful dish. Additionally, consider a splash of lime juice or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving to enhance the overall taste profile.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 carrots, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cups vegetable broth
1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by dicing the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrots. Make sure to rinse and drain the black beans to remove any excess sodium.

Combine in Crockpot

In your slow cooker, layer the prepared vegetables, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and spices. Pour the vegetable broth over the top.

Cook the Chili

Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for 4 hours. If you're short on time, you can set it to high and cook for about 2 hours.

Serve and Enjoy

After cooking, give the chili a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lime juice just before serving. It brightens up the chili wonderfully!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the amazing aspects of this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is its suitability for meal prep. You can prepare a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for several days. Store the chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you prefer, you could freeze individual portions; just make sure to label the containers with the date.

To reheat, simply transfer your portion to a saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If frozen, you can defrost overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for a quick thaw. Adding a little extra broth while reheating can help restore the original texture, making it just as delicious as the first day.

Serving Suggestions

This chili is versatile when it comes to serving options! I love serving it with a side of cornbread for a comforting meal. You can also top it with crushed tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra texture and flavor. For a refreshing contrast, a simple side salad with lime vinaigrette complements the chili beautifully.

If you're looking to make this chili a complete meal, consider adding some cooked quinoa or brown rice directly into the bowl before serving. This not only enhances the meal's heartiness but also boosts the fiber content. Plus, it makes the dish feel even more like an indulgent cozy night in.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this chili to suit your taste! Want a smokier flavor? Try adding some diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. For a sweeter profile, bell pepper or corn can add a subtle sweetness without overpowering the dish. Experimenting with different beans, such as white beans or lentils, can also create unique flavor profiles while keeping the dish healthy.

If you're short on time, you can adapt this recipe for the stovetop. Simply sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes before adding the remaining ingredients, then simmer on low for 30 to 40 minutes until everything is cooked through. This will still yield a hearty chili with that beloved rich flavor but in a fraction of the time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the chili?

Yes, this chili freezes very well! Just let it cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can brown some ground turkey or beef separately and stir it into the chili before serving for additional protein.

→ Is this chili spicy?

The chili as written is mild but you can easily increase the spice level by adding fresh jalapeños or additional chili powder.

→ What can I serve with this chili?

Cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips are great side options to serve alongside this amazing chili!