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: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound dried black beans, rinsed and sorted; 1 large onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Daily Food

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili on busy days when I want something hearty yet healthy. It’s so easy to throw the ingredients in the slow cooker, and by the evening, I have a warm and flavorful meal waiting for me. The blend of spices creates a rich and satisfying chili that keeps me full without any guilt. Plus, leftovers are perfect for lunch the next day, making it a win-win situation for anyone looking for nutritious options in their meal prep.

Created by

Una Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:42:37.457Z

When I first tried making black bean chili in my crockpot, I was amazed at how effortless it was to create such a flavorful dish. I experimented with various beans and vegetables, but I found that using just black beans, corn, and plenty of spices gives a fantastic depth of flavor. The key is to let it cook low and slow, which allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully.

One tip I’ve discovered is to add a bit of lime juice just before serving; it really brightens the overall taste. This chili freezes well too, which means I can enjoy it anytime, even on those hectic days when cooking feels like a chore.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling meal
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies
Perfect for meal prep and freezing for later use

      

Ingredient Spotlight: Black Beans

Black beans are the star of this chili, providing both texture and nutrition. They are rich in protein and fiber, which makes this dish hearty and filling. Make sure to soak the beans overnight if you prefer a faster cooking time, as this can help reduce the overall cooking duration in your crockpot. If you're short on time, using canned black beans is a great shortcut—just be sure to rinse them thoroughly to reduce sodium content.

When properly cooked, black beans should be tender yet retain their shape, adding to the chili's overall texture. If you find that your beans are still firm after the 8-hour cooking time, it may be due to their age or not having soaked them beforehand. If this happens, you can simmer the chili on the stovetop for an additional 30 minutes or until the beans are soft.

Customizing Your Chili

One of the wonderful aspects of black bean chili is its versatility. You can easily adapt the flavors by adding different spices or additional vegetables based on what you have on hand. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. If you enjoy a smokier flavor, a touch more smoked paprika or even chipotle powder will elevate the dish beautifully.

Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes into the mix. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Remember that hard vegetables may need extra cooking time, so adjust accordingly if necessary. With a few tweaks, this chili can suit any palate or dietary preference.

Storing and Reheating Tips

After preparing this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili, you might be delighted to know that it stores exceptionally well. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label and date your containers to keep track of freshness.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them either on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If the chili seems a bit thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency. This meal is incredibly convenient for lunch or dinner the next day, ensuring that you’ll enjoy the same rich flavors with minimal additional effort.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound dried black beans, rinsed and sorted
1 large onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing and sorting the black beans to remove any debris. Dice the onion, bell pepper, and mince the garlic.

Combine in Crockpot

In your slow cooker, combine the black beans, onion, bell pepper, garlic, diced tomatoes (with juice), and corn. Add vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Chili

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until beans are tender, stirring occasionally if possible.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and serve hot.

Pro Tips

Feel free to modify the recipe by adding more vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition. You can also top the chili with avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for an added creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your black bean chili experience, consider serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for creaminess and a pinch of freshness. Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions can also add a pop of color and flavor to each bowl. For a crunch, serve with tortilla chips or over a bed of rice for a more filling meal.

If you're hosting friends or family, a toppings bar featuring shredded cheese, diced avocado, and fresh lime wedges can elevate the chili and make it more interactive. This way, everyone can customize their bowl to their liking, adding to the fun while enjoying a healthy meal together.

Nutrition Benefits

This chili is a powerhouse of nutrition, primarily due to its base of black beans, which are rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins. They can help lower cholesterol levels and support heart health. Plus, the inclusion of colorful veggies like bell peppers contributes additional vitamins and minerals, making this dish not just filling, but also great for your overall well-being.

Vegetables like onions and garlic are not only flavorful but also offer immune-boosting properties. By utilizing a low-sodium vegetable broth, this chili remains heart-healthy while being perfectly seasoned. Therefore, you can comfortably enjoy a satisfying bowl without compromising your health goals.

Troubleshooting Your Chili

If you find that your chili has turned out too watery, a simple fix is to remove the lid and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes on high heat. This will allow excess liquid to evaporate, giving your chili the desired thickness. Additionally, if you notice it lacks depth of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to enhance umami notes.

Conversely, if your chili is too thick, adding more vegetable broth or crushed tomatoes can adjust the consistency while keeping the flavor robust. Always taste as you go, and don't hesitate to tweak seasonings in the last hour of cooking, ensuring a perfectly balanced chili tailored to your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use 3 cans of black beans instead. Just rinse and add them in the last hour of cooking.

→ What can I serve with this chili?

It pairs well with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips.

→ Can I freeze the leftover chili?

Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is mildly spiced, but you can add more chili powder or diced jalapeños for extra heat.