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: 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 can corn, drained; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 bell peppers, chopped; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup vegetable broth; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional); Avocado for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love coming home to the aroma of Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili wafting through the kitchen. This dish is not only rich in flavors but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. With busy weekdays, I appreciate how simple it is to throw everything into my crockpot and let it work its magic. The combination of black beans, tomatoes, and spices creates a hearty chili that is perfect for cozy evenings and meal prep. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:31:14.541Z

When I first experimented with black bean chili, I was amazed at how hearty it turned out while remaining healthy. I focused on using fresh ingredients, and each bite is packed with flavor. The slow cooking process allows the spices to meld beautifully, and the end result is nothing short of comforting.

My favorite tip is to add a splash of lime juice just before serving; it Brightens up the chili and balances the earthiness of the beans. Plus, topping it with avocado and cilantro adds a refreshing crunch!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and fiber for a nutritious meal
Easy, one-pot preparation saves time on busy nights
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite toppings

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is undoubtedly the black beans, which not only provide a robust texture but also contribute a significant amount of protein and fiber. Their creaminess blends beautifully with the spices and tomatoes, creating a balanced and hearty dish. Gentle simmering in the crockpot allows the beans to absorb all the flavored liquid, resulting in a rich, fulfilling meal that keeps you satisfied for hours.

The addition of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions not only enhances the flavor profile but also boosts the nutritional value of the chili. These ingredients soften beautifully during cooking, releasing their natural sweetness while providing a colorful presentation. For added crunch and freshness, consider using vibrant, seasonal bell pepper varieties, or even adding some diced zucchini for extra vegetable-packed goodness.

Cooking Technique

When combining the ingredients in your crockpot, ensure that you're evenly mixing the spices with the other components. This helps the spices distribute evenly throughout the chili, making every bite flavorful. If you prefer a thicker chili, you can drain some of the liquid from the diced tomatoes or reduce the vegetable broth by half, allowing the chili to thicken as it cooks. Conversely, if you enjoy a soupier texture, feel free to add a little more broth during cooking.

Cooking the chili on low for 4 hours allows for an even melding of flavors, but if you're in a time crunch, the high setting will yield delicious results in just 2 hours. Just keep an eye on the vegetables to make sure they reach the perfect level of tenderness without losing their structure. A good visual cue is when the bell peppers start to soften but still retain a bit of bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a deliciously hearty chili:

Main Ingredients

2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can corn, drained
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bell peppers, chopped
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup vegetable broth
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Avocado for serving (optional)

Make sure to prep your ingredients before starting the crockpot.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your chili:

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Drain and rinse the black beans and corn.

Combine in Crockpot

Add all the ingredients into the crockpot, including the spices and vegetable broth.

Cook the Chili

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours until the vegetables are tender.

Add the Lime Juice

Once cooked, stir in the lime juice to enhance the flavors.

Serve

Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and avocado if desired.

Enjoy your warming, healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For added heartiness, you can stir in some cooked quinoa or brown rice before serving. Adjusting spices is key to personalizing the flavor to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful finishing touch, garnish your bowls of chili with fresh cilantro and slices of avocado, which provide a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the spiciness of the chili. I love adding a dollop of plant-based sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess. Additionally, consider serving the chili with a side of cornbread or over a bed of steamed rice for a more filling meal.

This chili can also be easily customized with your favorite toppings. Crushed tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch, while a sprinkle of vegan cheese can elevate the flavors even further. Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings like jalapeños for heat, or diced tomatoes for freshness to suit your palate.

Storing and Meal Prep

This Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is ideal for meal prep. Once cooled, portion the chili into airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until steaming hot. If you want to freeze the chili, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, making it a perfect ready-to-eat meal on a busy day.

To make reheating more enjoyable, you might want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the chili as you warm it up, helping it regain its original consistency. For those who enjoy a bit of twist, feel free to adapt the flavors in your reheated chili by stirring in some fresh herbs or spices according to your preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried black beans?

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

→ Is this chili spicy?

The recipe is mild, but feel free to add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for extra heat.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! It freezes well and makes for a convenient meal later.

→ What toppings do you suggest?

Sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, and tortilla chips work great!