Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound black beans (soaked overnight or canned); 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili on busy days. It's incredibly easy to throw together, and the slow cooking makes the flavors meld beautifully. Using black beans not only adds protein but also gives a rich, hearty texture that everyone in my family enjoys. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep; I often make a big batch to last for several days. With just a handful of fresh vegetables and spices, it's a wholesome dish that reminds me of home-cooked warmth.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:49:11.746Z

When I first tried making black bean chili in a crockpot, I was surprised at how easily everything came together. I took my family’s favorite chili recipe and tweaked it to make it healthier. The addition of fresh ingredients like bell peppers and tomatoes really brightens the dish and makes it so satisfying. Slow cooking allows all the spices to deepen and infuse the beans, creating an incredibly flavorful meal.

One of my favorite tips is to soak the black beans overnight! This not only makes them softer but also helps to enhance their flavors. If you’re crunched for time, you can always use canned beans; just make sure to rinse them well. I often find that serving this chili with a dollop of Greek yogurt adds a lovely creaminess.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, hearty flavor that's perfect for comfort food cravings
Packed with nutrients from fresh veggies and beans
Flexible recipe that allows for personal touches like spices and toppings

      

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili plays a crucial role in delivering texture and flavor. Black beans are not just a great source of protein; they also contribute a creamy consistency when cooked down. When selecting canned beans, always opt for low-sodium varieties to keep your dish healthy without sacrificing flavor. If you're using dried beans, soaking overnight is essential to ensure even cooking and to aid in digestion.

The aromatics—onion, garlic, and bell pepper—provide a flavorful base that forms the foundation of any hearty chili. I recommend dicing the vegetables uniformly, about half an inch, so they cook evenly. The spices, including chili powder, cumin, and paprika, add depth and warmth; feel free to adjust these according to your taste preferences. If you enjoy heat, consider adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking in a crockpot is ideal for this black bean chili as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully over time. When combining your ingredients, ensure they are submerged in the liquid for even cooking; if necessary, add a bit more broth. Cooking on low for 6-8 hours is my preferred method, resulting in the beans being tender and the chili thickening nicely. Keep an eye on the liquid levels, especially if you use a smaller crockpot, to prevent burning.

If you're short on time, you can cook this chili on high for 3-4 hours, but I find that the low and slow method yields a superior flavor profile. Once cooking is complete, it's a good idea to let the chili sit for a few minutes to deepen the flavors even further. You might notice a richer aroma as it cools slightly, making it an inviting dish to serve.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious and easy chili:

Ingredients

1 pound black beans (soaked overnight or canned)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or spices!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect chili:

Prepare Ingredients

If using dried beans, soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse before adding to the crockpot. Chop all vegetables and set aside.

Combine in Crockpot

In your crockpot, add soaked black beans (or rinsed canned beans), diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and broth.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans are tender and flavorful.

Season to Taste

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. You can also add lime juice for brightness.

Serve

Serve hot with optional garnishes like cilantro, avocado, or Greek yogurt.

Enjoy your delicious homemade chili!

Pro Tips

For added depth, try sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. This simple step can enhance the flavor significantly.

Serving Suggestions

This black bean chili is creamy and satisfying on its own, but enhancing it with toppings can elevate your meal. I love adding sliced avocado for creaminess, a dollop of Greek yogurt for tang, or fresh cilantro for a burst of herbal freshness. You can also serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

For a fun twist, consider setting up a chili bar with different garnishes like cheese, diced onions, or lime wedges. This way, everyone can customize their bowl according to their tastes. Pairing this chili with some cornbread or tortilla chips can add an exciting crunch that complements the smoothness of the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This chili is perfect for meal prep. Once cooked, let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to five days, or you can freeze it for up to three months. Make sure to leave some space in the container as liquids expand when frozen to prevent spills.

When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up, as it may thicken in the fridge or freezer. Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in one-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot. This method keeps the flavors vibrant while ensuring the chili maintains its hearty texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned black beans. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the crockpot.

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use chicken broth or even just water; however, using broth will enhance the flavor.

→ How can I make this chili spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper for extra heat!

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This chili freezes very well. Just store it in an airtight container.