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 can corn, drained; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable broth; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Light Planning

I love coming home to the rich, savory aroma of this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili after a long day. It’s a meal that's as hearty as it is wholesome, packed with fiber and protein to satisfy any appetite. The beauty of using a crockpot is that I can throw in all the ingredients in the morning, set it, and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully throughout the day. Plus, this chili is completely customizable – I often add different vegetables or spices depending on my mood, making it a go-to comfort food that never gets dull.

Created by

Blythe Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:17:35.508Z

When I first decided to make this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili, I was searching for a recipe that was both nutritious and satisfying. As I chopped the fresh veggies and prepared the spices, I realized that the combination of ingredients not only creates a vibrant color but also layers of flavor that build over time in the crockpot. Each ingredient, from the bell peppers to the garlic, contributes to the depth of flavor, making every bowl ultra comforting.

What I love most about this recipe is how it highlights the versatility of black beans. They absorb the flavors wonderfully while adding a hefty dose of protein to the dish. I often have fun experimenting with different toppings, such as avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt, which adds another layer of creaminess that perfectly complements the chili’s texture.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutritious ingredients that pack a punch of flavor
Versatile recipe that allows for customization and creativity
Simple preparation with minimal cleanup, thanks to the crockpot

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili serves a purpose. Black beans not only provide a hearty base but are also packed with protein and fiber, making this chili a satisfying option for any meal. The bell pepper and onion contribute natural sweetness and texture, while garlic adds depth and a savory punch. Using canned diced tomatoes ensures a rich sauce, and the corn introduces a subtle sweetness and delightful crunch that complements the other flavors beautifully.

Spices play a critical role in this recipe, and adjusting them can significantly change the chili's profile. Chili powder gives it warmth and character, while cumin adds earthy tones that enhance the overall depth. Don’t hesitate to customize these spices based on your personal preferences—adding a pinch of cayenne can elevate the heat if you like it spicy, while a touch of smoked paprika can deepen the flavor with a hint of smokiness.

Perfectly Cooking and Serving

When using a crockpot for this chili, timing is essential. Cooking it on low for 8 hours allows the flavors to meld exquisitely, creating a harmonious dish. If you're short on time, the high setting for 4 hours will still produce good results, but be aware that you may miss out on some of the deeper flavors that develop over a longer cooking time. It’s ready when everything is tender and the chili has thickened slightly.

Serving this chili is just as flexible as its preparation. I love topping mine with fresh cilantro for brightness, but you can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado for creaminess. Pairing this chili with whole-grain bread or over quinoa can elevate the meal even further, offering added nutrients and textures. Additionally, if you have leftovers, they only get better as the flavors continue to intensify, making this an excellent option for meal prep.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili:

Ingredients

2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can corn, drained
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable broth
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to adjust seasonings to your liking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious chili:

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the bell pepper and onion, and mince the garlic. Rinse and drain the black beans and corn.

Combine in Crockpot

Add all prepared ingredients, including black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, bell pepper, onion, garlic, spices, and vegetable broth into the crockpot. Stir well.

Cook

Set the crockpot on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The longer, the better for flavor development!

Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your healthy and hearty chili!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This chili can also be frozen for later use, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Variations to Try

This Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is highly versatile. Feel free to swap in other legumes like kidney beans or chickpeas for a different texture and flavor profile. You can also toss in seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or carrots; just be sure to chop them into equal-sized pieces for even cooking. If you prefer a meatier version, adding cooked ground turkey or chicken during the last hour of cooking can provide a delightful twist.

For a different flavor experience, experiment with various types of broth. While vegetable broth is delicious, using chicken broth can enhance the savory notes of the chili. Furthermore, trying out fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular ones can add a hint of smokiness, which pairs remarkably well with the spices used in this recipe.

Storage and Reheating

Storing your chili is as easy as it is delicious. Once it has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. This dish also freezes beautifully; consider portioning it into freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bags with the date for easier tracking.

When it comes to reheating, the stovetop works wonderfully for evenly heating the spices and achieving the right texture. Simply add the leftover chili to a pot over medium heat and stir until warmed through. If it's too thick, you can add a splash of vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, the microwave is convenient: heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until steaming hot.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan since all ingredients are plant-based!

→ How can I thicken my chili?

If you prefer a thicker chili, you can blend a portion of the beans and stir them back into the pot.

→ Can I use dried beans instead?

Yes, just soak the dried black beans overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, or fresh lime juice add great flavor and texture!