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: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 can corn, drained; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili! It’s the perfect comfort food, especially on chilly days when I want something hearty and nutritious. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; I can just let the crockpot do the work. The blend of spices and hearty black beans brings a wonderful depth of flavor that everyone in my family enjoys. Plus, knowing that it’s healthy makes indulging in a second bowl guilt-free!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:19:05.771Z

When I first tried this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili, I was stunned by how easy and delicious it was! I love how I can just toss in all the ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic. It’s perfect for meal prep, and I often double the recipe to freeze some for later. The black beans provide a great source of protein, which is just what I need for a satisfying meal.

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to add a splash of lime juice right before serving. It adds a zing that brightens all the flavors. I also love serving it with fresh cilantro and a dollop of yogurt for a creamy finish. It’s just the kind of meal that warms my soul!

        Why You'll Love This Chili
        Nutritious ingredients packed with flavor
Effortless preparation with a hands-off cooking method
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers that taste even better

      

Exploring the Flavor Profile

The unique blend of spices in this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili elevates its flavor significantly. Chili powder brings warmth while cumin adds depth, and smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that ties the dish together beautifully. This combination not only enhances the overall taste but also complements the heartiness of the black beans. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

The diced tomatoes with green chilies play a crucial role in balancing the richness of the beans. They add acidity, which cuts through the creaminess and provides a fresh contrast. For a twist, you can substitute with fire-roasted tomatoes to impart a more robust flavor, or go for plain diced tomatoes if the green chilies are too spicy for your taste.

Customization and Variations

One of the great perks of this chili is its versatility. You can easily customize it by incorporating other vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or even sweet potatoes. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the crockpot at the beginning. If you like a protein boost, consider mixing in some cooked quinoa or lentils for added texture and nutrition.

For those following a gluten-free diet, this chili is naturally gluten-free, but always check the broth label to ensure no hidden gluten ingredients are present. If you're looking for a vegan option, the recipe is already vegan-friendly, but swapping the vegetable broth with homemade broth can enhance the depth even further.

Ingredients

Chili Ingredients

2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can corn, drained
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large crockpot, add the black beans, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Add Broth and Cook

Pour in the vegetable broth and stir everything together. Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for about 8 hours.

Finish and Serve

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the corn and lime juice. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. You can also customize this chili by adding other vegetables or proteins like ground turkey or additional spices.

Preparation Tips

To streamline your cooking process, consider chopping the vegetables the night before. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ready to be tossed into the crockpot in the morning. This can save time and make the preparation feel even more manageable during busy weekdays.

Don’t underestimate the importance of rinsing the black beans. This removes excess sodium and enhances the flavor, ensuring that your chili tastes fresh and not overly salty. While canned beans are convenient, you can also use dried beans—just soak them overnight and adjust the broth quantities for a heartier texture.

Storage and Reheating

This chili stores wonderfully, making it an ideal recipe for meal prep. After serving, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers; it can last up to three months in the freezer without losing quality.

When reheating, do it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to maintain the desired consistency, as the chili thickens upon cooling. If you find it too thick, you can easily adjust the texture to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak them overnight and cook them separately before adding them to the crockpot.

→ How can I make this chili spicier?

You can add additional chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to increase the heat.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This chili freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this chili?

It pairs beautifully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or over rice for a filling meal.