Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 4 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili on busy days when I want a hearty meal without the fuss. It’s perfect for meal prep and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or beans. The best part is, it simmers in my crockpot while I go about my day, filling my home with delicious aromas. Each bowl is packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, making it a satisfying choice for a healthy dinner or lunch throughout the week!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:34:11.085Z

When I first discovered this Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili recipe, I knew I had stumbled upon a gem. The combination of quinoa, hearty beans, and fresh vegetables creates an incredible texture and flavor that satisfies my cravings without the guilt. I love using quinoa as it not only adds a nutty flavor but also enhances the nutrient profile.

One tip I found particularly helpful is to soak the quinoa briefly before adding it to the pot. This step enhances its digestibility and ensures a tender bite. Paired with spices like cumin and smoked paprika, this chili offers a delightful warmth that wraps around you, making it perfect for chilly days!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein from quinoa and beans
Full of vibrant vegetables to nourish your body
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner

      

The Benefits of Quinoa in Chili

Quinoa is a powerhouse ingredient that not only adds protein but also provides a delightful texture to your chili. Unlike traditional grains, quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. When cooked properly, it has a slightly nutty flavor and a fluffy texture that complements the hearty beans and vegetables in this dish. Its ability to absorb flavors means it pairs wonderfully with the spices, enhancing the overall taste of your chili.

In addition to its nutritional benefits, quinoa is gluten-free, making this chili an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities. It cooks down to create a deliciously thick consistency, helping to bind the ingredients together without the need for added thickeners. This not only keeps the recipe simple but also maintains a clean and healthy profile.

Customizing Your Chili

One of the great things about this Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili is its versatility. You can add a wide range of vegetables depending on what you have on hand or to suit your family's preferences. Consider tossing in zucchini, corn, or spinach towards the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and color. If you enjoy spices, a dash of cayenne or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the heat level to your liking.

For those who prefer different proteins, swapping out black beans or kidney beans for chickpeas or lentils works just as well. Just ensure that if you change the beans, you adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through and flavorful. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to suit your palate perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smooth and enjoyable!

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go along!

Instructions

Get ready to make an easy yet delicious crockpot chili that you can set and forget!

Prepare the ingredients

Start by rinsing the quinoa and chopping the vegetables. This helps to make sure everything is ready to go when you start layering the ingredients in the crockpot.

Combine in crockpot

Add all the ingredients—quinoa, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and vegetable broth—into your crockpot.

Set to cook

Stir everything well, cover, and set your crockpot to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The quinoa will cook perfectly, absorbing all the spices and flavors!

Serve and enjoy

Once cooked, give your chili a good stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, and enjoy the warmth!

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for later enjoyment!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any extra vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or carrots, to boost nutrition even more. A splash of lime juice before serving adds a refreshing twist!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This chili stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep. After cooking, allow the chili to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, ensure to leave some space in the container for expansion, as the chili thickens when frozen.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen it up if it has thickened too much during storage. Heat until it's bubbly and steaming for the best texture and taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Healthy Crockpot Quinoa Chili hot, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of flavor. A dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado on top can add creaminess and balance out the spices. You can also serve it with crusty whole-grain bread or over a bed of rice for an even more filling meal.

For a festive touch, consider adding toppings like shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors. This chili also makes for a great filling in tacos or burritos, offering a hearty vegetarian option without compromising taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of beans?

Absolutely! You can substitute any beans you prefer, such as pinto beans or chickpeas.

→ Is the chili spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder and adding fresh jalapeños if you prefer more heat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Let the chili cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make this chili vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan, just ensure your vegetable broth is vegan as well.