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 (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making my Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili because it brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its hearty ingredients and flavorful spices, it's an easy way to enjoy a nutritious dish that everyone will love. I simply toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work while I go about my day. The result is a delicious and satisfying chili that's perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep for the week ahead.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:25:12.626Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed by how easy it was to prepare a healthy meal with such minimal effort. The crockpot allows the flavors to marry beautifully throughout the day, creating a chili that's rich and satisfying. I love using canned black beans for convenience, but soaking and cooking dried beans would add an extra layer of flavor.

One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of lime juice just before serving. It brightens up the entire dish and makes the flavors pop! Plus, this chili is versatile; you can easily adjust the spices to suit your family's preferences.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein-rich black beans and veggies
Effortless preparation for busy days
Customizable to suit your taste preferences

      

Ingredient Insights

Black beans serve as the star ingredient in this chili, providing a hearty protein source and creamy texture. When rinsing and draining, aim to use low-sodium canned beans to control the saltiness of your dish. If you prefer dried black beans, soak them overnight and cook them before adding to the crockpot; just keep in mind they will require additional cooking time.

The diced tomatoes not only add flavor but also provide acidity that balances the richness of the beans. Opting for tomatoes with green chilies introduces an extra kick, but feel free to use plain diced tomatoes for a milder chili. Consider adding a splash of hot sauce if you enjoy spiciness, adjusting to your preference.

Cooking Techniques

Using a crockpot means you can set it and forget it! Ensure your vegetables are evenly chopped to promote consistent cooking. Stir the mixture every couple of hours if you're home, but it’s perfectly fine to leave it untouched during low cooking sessions. After eight hours, the chili will develop deep flavors and the ingredients will meld beautifully, though four hours on high will work in a pinch.

If you're looking for a thicker chili, consider mashing a portion of the beans with a fork before cooking, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) in the last hour of cooking, stirring well. This will help achieve that heartier consistency without compromising on the flavor.

Storage and Serving

This black bean chili is ideal for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. Make sure to leave some room in the container for expansion during freezing.

When ready to serve, add the lime juice just before plating to brighten the flavors. Serve the chili with toppings like avocado slices, shredded cheese, or sour cream for richness. For a fun twist, pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor contrast.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your chili:

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for the slow cooker.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your chili:

Prepare Ingredients

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

Combine Ingredients

In the crockpot, combine the black beans, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, garlic, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, stirring occasionally.

Finish and Serve

Before serving, stir in lime juice if desired and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your warm and nutritious black bean chili!

Pro Tips

Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or including jalapeños. This chili also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment with other vegetables in your chili! Zucchini, corn, or carrots can add nutritional value and diverse flavors. If you enjoy a smokier profile, consider adding diced chipotle peppers or a splash of liquid smoke. For a vegetarian or vegan twist, replace the vegetable broth with homemade stock for an enhanced taste.

For those who want a protein boost, add shredded chicken or ground turkey. Just make sure to cook the meat beforehand to ensure it's fully cooked through before combining with other ingredients. This not only adds variety for different dietary needs but also gives the chili a heartier feel.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chili comes out too watery, don’t worry! Simply continue to cook it uncovered on high for an additional 30-60 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate, which will concentrate the flavors too. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning around the edges.

Conversely, if you find the chili too thick after cooking, just add a bit more vegetable broth or water and give it a good stir. This simple fix can help achieve your desired consistency without affecting the overall flavor, ensuring your chili stays both delicious and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

For a cozy and comforting meal, serve your chili in a wide bowl topped with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of lime for a refreshing zing. You can also garnish with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Try pairing your chili with a side of crusty bread or rice to absorb the hearty flavors.

If you're feeling adventurous, create chili nachos by layering tortilla chips with chili, cheese, and jalapeños, then broil until the cheese is melty and golden. This unique twist can transform your chili into a fun game-day snack that everyone will enjoy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can soak and cook dried black beans beforehand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I add meat to this chili?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef can be added; simply cook it beforehand and combine it with the other ingredients in the crockpot.

→ How long does the chili last in the fridge?

It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.