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: 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 can corn, drained; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups vegetable broth; Juice of 1 lime

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili on busy days when I want something nutritious and hearty waiting for me when I get home. The best part is that it requires minimal prep time, allowing the slow cooker to work its magic with all those incredible flavors. This chili is packed with protein, fiber, and a medley of spices that make each bowl satisfying and nourishing. Plus, I can make a large batch that lasts through the week, making meal planning a breeze.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:04:13.012Z

When I first decided to tackle homemade chili, I worried about the balance of spices and flavors. After several attempts, I discovered that using a blend of spices and letting the slow cooker work for hours really deepens the taste. Adding a dash of lime juice right at the end brightens everything up!

This recipe allows for flexibility with ingredients. I often swap in different vegetables based on what I have handy. Whether it’s corn or bell peppers, the chili always turns out delicious, and I love how comforting it is on a chilly evening.

        Why You'll Love This Chili
        Rich in protein and fiber, making it filling and healthy
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
Versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The black beans in this chili aren't just for texture; they're a powerhouse of protein and fiber that provide satisfaction in every bite. Their creamy texture complements the fresh crunch of bell peppers, while absorbent tomatoes meld the flavors together. When selecting canned black beans, look for low-sodium options to keep your dish healthy without sacrificing taste.

Each spice in this chili brings a unique dimension. Chili powder adds heat, while cumin offers a warm undertone that enhances the freshness of the bell pepper and lime juice. Smoked paprika contributes a subtle smokiness that elevates the overall profile of the dish. To customize the level of heat, consider adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an added kick.

Slow Cooking Secrets

Cooking this chili on low for 8 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but it’s essential to make sure your crockpot is set correctly. If your crockpot runs hot, check for doneness after 6 hours. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy, achieving a lovely balance that maintains their flavors. A good stir halfway through ensures even cooking and prevents anything from sticking to the bottom.

If you’re short on time, you can adapt this recipe for a faster cooking approach. Set your crockpot to high for about 4 hours instead. This will cook the chili faster, but the longer cooking on low develops richer flavors. It’s a great option for those busy days when you need a quick, nutritious meal that still tastes like you spent hours preparing it.

Ingredients

For the Chili

2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can corn, drained
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable broth
Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

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

Add Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and stir everything to combine well.

Cook

Cover and set your crockpot on low. Cook for 8 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, stir in the lime juice for a fresh kick, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, top with sliced jalapeños or serve with avocado and cilantro.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prepping. After it's fully cooled, store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to extend the shelf life, consider freezing individual portions. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. This ensures you always have a hearty meal ready to go.

If you find yourself with an abundance of chili, it’s easy to scale the recipe up or down. For larger gatherings, double the recipe, ensuring your crockpot can accommodate the volume. If making a smaller batch, reduce the ingredient quantities while maintaining the same ratios to preserve flavor. A good rule of thumb is to keep the broth to bean ratio consistent, ensuring it remains hearty.

Serving Suggestions

This chili is fantastic on its own, but you can take it to another level with toppings. I love adding slices of avocado, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added creaminess and freshness. You could also serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, giving it an extra nutritional boost while making it even more filling.

For a fun twist, consider serving the chili with cornbread or tortilla chips on the side. The crispy texture of chips contrasts beautifully with the hearty chili, creating a satisfying eating experience. You could also turn it into chili-stuffed bell peppers for a colorful presentation. Just hollow out some peppers, fill them with the chili, and bake until the peppers are tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this chili?

Yes, this chili freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ Can I use other types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in kidney beans or pinto beans for a different flavor and texture.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this chili are plant-based.

→ How can I adjust the spiciness?

You can add more or less chili powder or include fresh diced jalapeños to control the heat level.