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 cans black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Favorites

I love how easy it is to prepare a nutritious meal with my Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili! Just throw everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully. By using black beans, fresh vegetables, and a few spices, I create a hearty chili that’s not only delicious but also packed with fiber and protein. This recipe has become a staple in my household, especially on chilly days when I want something warm and comforting that's still good for me.

Created by

June Weatherby

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:35:35.310Z

When I first tried making chili in a crockpot, I was skeptical about how well the flavors would come together. However, after my first batch, I knew I was onto something special. The slow cooking process allows the spices to infuse deeply into the beans and veggies, creating a rich depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with quicker cooking methods.

One tip I discovered is to add a splash of lime juice just before serving; it brightens the chili and enhances the other flavors. I also love to customize the toppings, like adding avocado or cilantro, which makes each bowl feel unique and special!

Reasons You'll Love This Chili
Nutritious and hearty, perfect for a family meal
Super easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
Versatile recipe allows for customization and creativity

Ingredient Insights

The foundation of this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili lies in its high-fiber ingredients, primarily the black beans. Black beans are not only packed with protein, but they also provide a rich, creamy texture that helps thicken the chili without the need for flour or dairy. This balances the dish, especially when combined with the acidity of the diced tomatoes, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions add vibrant flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers provide sweetness and a slight crunch, while onions contribute a savory depth. You can opt for different colored bell peppers to also enhance the chili's visual appeal. If you're short on time, pre-chopped vegetables can save you preparation effort without compromising the dish’s quality.

The spices in this recipe, particularly chili powder and cumin, are essential for building flavor complexity. Cumin adds earthiness, which complements the beans beautifully. You can adjust the spices according to your heat preference; if you like it spicy, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños.

Cooking Tips

When using a crockpot, distributing the ingredients evenly can enhance the cooking process. Layer the beans, corn, and spices at the bottom before adding the bell pepper and onion on top. This setup helps the flavors merge more effectively as the slower cooking preserves their integrity. Stir gently as needed during cooking to prevent the beans from breaking apart too much.

For those who prefer a thicker chili, you can reserve a cup of the beans before adding them to the crockpot and mash them separately, then stir them back in during the last hour of cooking. This method significantly enriches the texture and keeps the dish from becoming too soupy.

Storing leftovers is straightforward—let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It stores well in the fridge for up to five days and can also be frozen for about three months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start!

Ingredients

2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable broth

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your chili!

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the bell pepper and onion. Mince the garlic. Rinse the canned black beans and corn.

Combine in Crockpot

Add all prepared ingredients to the crockpot. Mix well to combine.

Add the Broth and Spices

Pour in the vegetable broth and sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until well incorporated.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, serve hot with your favorite toppings like avocado, cilantro, or cheese.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy chili!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add more vegetables such as carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by adding more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili experience, consider garnishing with fresh toppings. Sliced avocado adds creaminess, while chopped cilantro introduces a refreshing herbal note. A sprinkling of shredded cheese provides a rich, savory contrast, but for a vegan option, nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Serve the chili with whole grain bread or over a bed of brown rice for added texture and more filling fiber. If you're feeling adventurous, dollop some Greek yogurt or sour cream on top to balance the chili’s spice with creaminess. This also provides an opportunity to introduce a tangy twist to your bowl.

For a fun twist, try making chili-stuffed sweet potatoes. Simply bake sweet potatoes until soft, split them open, and fill them with the chili. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds natural sweetness to the dish, giving a fantastic flavor balance.

Customizing Your Chili

The beauty of chili lies in its versatility. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different beans; kidney beans or pinto beans can be great substitutes for black beans, each adding a unique flavor and texture. If you want a bit more protein, feel free to add cooked quinoa or lentils to the mixture during the last hour of cooking.

For a smokier flavor, incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This opens up a new layer of warmth and complexity, making your chili stand out. You can also switch up the vegetables—zucchini, carrots, or even sweet corn can be excellent additions that complement the overall profile of the dish.

If you need to make a vegetarian version heartier, consider adding diced butternut squash or sweet potatoes. They not only provide extra nutrients but also enrich the dish with a slight sweetness that balances the spices beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?

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

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely! Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a kick.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love to top it with avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.