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, rinsed and drained; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chiles; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Juice of 1 lime; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I recently decided to create a dish that combines warmth, flavor, and health, leading me to this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili. With a vibrant mix of spices and wholesome ingredients, it's become a favorite in our household. The best part is that I can toss everything into the crockpot and let it cook all day, filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This chili is not only nourishing but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:52:11.772Z

When I first made this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili, I wanted to experiment with flavors while keeping it nutritious. I used a combination of spices that I had on hand, including cumin and smoked paprika, which gave it a delightful smokiness. The slow cooking process allowed the beans to absorb all the spices and flavors, creating a rich and hearty dish.

One tip I found really helpful was to include a splash of lime juice just before serving. It brightens up the chili and balances the flavors wonderfully. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and fiber from black beans
Rich flavor yet low in calories
Perfect for meal prepping or serving a crowd

      

The Role of Black Beans

Black beans are the star of this chili, providing not only a delicious earthy flavor but also a hearty dose of protein and fiber. This combination not only enhances the nutritional profile of your dish but also helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. If you’re looking for a plant-based protein source, these beans are an excellent choice. Feel free to use dried black beans; just make sure to soak and cook them before adding them to the crockpot for the best results.

When using canned black beans, rinsing them is key to reducing the sodium content and removing any canning liquid that could dilute the chili's flavor. It's a common mistake to skip this step, but it can elevate the dish by ensuring the flavors are as rich and harmonious as possible.

Spice Levels and Adjustments

The spices in this chili bring it to life with vibrant flavors. Feel free to adjust the heat level by varying the amount of chili powder or even adding fresh jalapeños if you prefer a spicy kick. I recommend starting with a lower amount and tasting it towards the end of cooking; you can always add more if needed. The smoked paprika contributes a wonderful depth to the dish, accentuating the overall flavor without overpowering it.

If you're serving guests who may not enjoy spicy foods, consider setting aside a portion before adding any additional spices. This way, you can accommodate different palates while still enjoying the recipe's foundational flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is how well it stores. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. I like to portion them into individual servings for easy reheating on busy weeks. Just remember to label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

For reheating, stovetop works best as you can gently stir and monitor your chili, but you can also use the microwave if you're in a hurry. If you find the chili has thickened too much after storage, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can diced tomatoes with green chiles
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1 lime
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Preparation Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Cook in the Crockpot

Transfer the mixture to the crockpot and add the vegetable broth. Drizzle with olive oil, stir, and cover. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours.

Finish and Serve

Once the cooking time is complete, stir in the lime juice. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.

Pro Tips

For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the beans during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your chili experience, serve it with a variety of toppings. Chopped avocado, fresh lime wedges, and a dollop of Greek yogurt add creaminess and balance the spices beautifully. For a crunchy texture, consider adding tortilla strips or cornbread on the side. These additions not only improve the visual appeal but also provide different flavor experiences with each bite.

You can also add some grated cheese if you aren't strictly adhering to a vegan diet. Just remember to sprinkle it on top right before serving, allowing it to melt slightly without overpowering the chili's flavor profile.

Flavor Variations

This chili is quite versatile, so don't hesitate to get creative! For a southwest flair, you can include corn and diced zucchini. Simply add these vegetables during the last hour of cooking to ensure they maintain a bit of texture. For an added smoky flavor, consider throwing in some diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce; just a small amount can significantly elevate the chili's depth.

If you're craving a slightly sweeter profile, adding diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash can be a wonderful complement to the spices used. Just chop them into small cubes and add them at the beginning of the cook time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Use about 1 cup dried beans.

→ Can I add meat to this chili?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef can work well if you prefer a meatier chili.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What toppings can I suggest?

Sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, or additional cilantro make great toppings!